Switzerland: the land of breathtaking mountains, punctual trains, and rules so precise they make a Swiss watch jealous. Moving here as an expat is exciting, but let’s be real—it’s also a bit of a puzzle wrapped in chocolate and dipped in bureaucracy.
But don’t worry! That’s why I had the idea to make this guide, as a little hint for anyone new in the country, and a way to find all the important information you need in the same place.
Let’s dive into the must-know tips for surviving (and thriving) in Switzerland!
The Swiss Holy Grail: Your Residency Permit
First things first: register yourself! Within 14 days of arrival, you need to waltz over to your local Gemeinde (resident’s office) and sign up for your residency permit (B, L, or C—like Pokémon, but less fun).
Pro Tips:
✔️ Bring every document you’ve ever owned (passport, work contract, rental agreement, etc.).
✔️ Expect Swiss efficiency: you won’t slip through any cracks here.
✔️ EU citizens? You’ve got it easier. Non-EU? Hope you like paperwork.
Taxes in Switzerland: The Price of Paradise
Switzerland loves its taxes, and the amount you pay depends on where you live (yes, some cantons are tax havens, and others… not so much).
- Income tax is deducted at source (for B permit holders).
- Your tax rate depends on your canton (Geneva = $$$, Zug = 😊).
Survival Tip:
Want lower taxes? Move 5 km in the right direction. Seriously, changing cantons can save you thousands.
Public Transport: Swiss Efficiency at it’s Best
Swiss trains don’t just run on time—they might judge you if you’re late. The SBB (Swiss Rail) app is your lifeline to get around.
- Half-Fare Card (Halbtax): Pays for itself in two trips.
- GA Travelcard: Unlimited travel but pricey (perfect if you commute daily).
- If you are under the age of 25 – lucky you- there are much more affordable options for you in the SBB app.
- Snag a Spartageskarte Gemeinde—this magical day pass lets you travel unlimited on public transport. Book early through your local municipality to save big!
Driving? Read This First!
✔️ Speeding fines are legendary (seriously, your wallet will cry).
✔️ You need to exchange your foreign driver’s license within 12 months.
✔️ The Swiss love rules: always yield to the right at intersections.
Grocery Shopping: How not to Starve
Supermarkets here are different: the prices can be quite high, and the closing times unexpected.
- Migros & Coop: The Big Two (Migros is alcohol-free, so shop wisely!).
- Denner, Lidl, Aldi: For when you don’t want to spend CHF 7 on a tomato.
- Closing times: most grocery stores and shops close at 19:00 or 20:00 (except those in bigger cities and train stations), so plan ahead.
Bonus Tip:
Want to save? Hop to Germany or France for groceries. Even Swiss people do it. Be careful though, you are only allowed to bring 150€ worth of stuff pp in a day.
Health Insurance: It’s Mandatory!
In Switzerland healthcare is not free and insurance plans can get complicated.
- You must buy health insurance within 3 months of arriving.
- Choose your deductible : pay more monthly for lower out-of-pocket costs or save on premiums but risk higher medical bills later.
- Ambulances are also quite pricey.
- Prämienverbilligung: If you have a low income, you might qualify for a health insurance discount provided by your canton. Check with your canton’s website to see if you’re eligible!
Tips to Save Money:
✔️Switch insurers like a pro—you can change your basic health insurance every year, just cancel by November 30th for a fresh start on January 1st.
✔️Use Priminfo.ch – plug in your age and details to find the cheapest insurance deal. Easy, fast, and saves you money!
Swiss Housing: Where Finding an Apartment is an Olympic Sport
- Have your paperwork READY (permit, work contract, bank statements).
- Network: Many places go to friends-of-friends before being advertised.
- Facebook groups may help you more than you might think.
- Know your “Quiet Hours”: No loud noise after 10 PM or on Sundays—yes, this includes vacuuming.
The Cost of Living: Hope you like Budgeting
Switzerland is expensive , but there are ways to save.
✔️ Get a Half-Fare Card.
✔️ Buy second-hand—Facebook Marketplace , Ricardo.ch and Tutti.ch are lifesavers.
✔️ Cook at home— time to test your meal- prepping abilities.
✔️ Entertainment = nature—hiking is free; the views are priceless.
Pro Tip:
- Avoid converting CHF to your home currency every time you buy something- use Revolut instead.
- Download Twint as soon as possible, you will use it everywhere.
To Sum It Up…
Maybe all of this feels like a lot right now, and honestly—it kind of is! But once you settle in, Switzerland is an incredible place to live. It’s beautiful, safe, and ridiculously well-organized . It’s a beautiful, safe, and well-organized country.
I hope this guide helps you tackle the basics and feel more at home. Let me know if i missed out on anything important. And don’t worry—this is just the beginning! Stay tuned for more expat tips, Swiss quirks, and a touch of Greek tradition to help you navigate life here with a fresh perspective.
Up next: ☀️ Chasing the Sun: How a Greek navigates Swiss Winters
Image generated with AI (Midjourney)
Great article!
Thank you John!