How to get through the paperwork hastle of moving to Switzerland
Moving to a new country as a new resident isn’t easy, especially in Switzerland where we love paperwork. There are many things to arrange and take into consideration when you move to Switzerland. Here is a list of the most important tasks you should check of your list upon arrival. Good luck on your journey!
Visas
There are different visas to come to Switzerland whether for tourism, studying or work. It is more simple to get a visa for work in Switzerland for someone from the Schengen area than for someone from other countries. I’m not qualified to give you the best visas particular to your case but you can find information on travel visas here and work here.
Opening a bank account
If you are coming to Switzerland for work or studying, you will most likely want to open a bank account as soon as possible. There aren’t many limitations to opening one in Switzerland except being over 18 years old. To open a bank account, you can simply walk into a bank and ask to open one or find an application package from the bank you are interested in online. The documents you will need:
A valid passport or form of ID
Documentation on your income
Your Swiss address
You can find more information on Swiss banks here.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is compulsory in Switzerland. If you come from the United States, this may be a surprise to you, as well as to someone who is from one of the neighbouring countries with national health insurance. However, basic health insurance does not cover all medical expenses. Basic insurance covers medical treatment in the event ofaccident and illness. When going to a pharmacy, you are usually charged 10 to 20% of the cost for a drug. Above a certain level of annual expenses (depending on your plan), the 10% contribution does not apply anymore and you are not charged for the future drugs you may need. You are free to choose your own insurance company, which you can compare on the comparis website.
Housing registration
When you move to Switzerland, it is mandatory that you do your housing registration within 2 weeks of moving. This should be done at the town hall or immigration office depending on where you move. Look for information under “Einwohnerdienste, Migration und Fremdenpolizei” if moving to a German speaking area. Here is a link for Bern.
Driver’s license
As a new resident of SWitzerland, you can use your foreign driving license for up to 12 months. Afterwards, you need to exchange it for a Swiss one. The exchange process is fairly easy for EU/EFTA countries but may be a bit more complicated if you come from countries in which case you may need to take a few tests and courses. You will find information here.
Other Tips
Get a half fare card if you plan to use public transport. It cost an average of CHF 185 a year and all tickets are half off with SBB.
Subscribe to the Cumulus card from Migros to cash points when grocery shopping
If you hike often, consider becoming a Rega donor. It’s CHF 40 for an individual person or CHF 80 for a family. This donation supports the Rega’s rescue missions and if you require any medical rescue assistance during a trip in the mountains it will be covered.
