Moving To Switzerland: Your Go-To Checklist

It is a popular option for many retired couples or well-to-do families to consider moving to another country for a number of reasons. Part of this has to with a better standard of living, or personal preference for the local societal makeup.

Regardless of the motivation, the process can be a difficult and complicated one, often taking a lot of time. All of this is just made more tedious in light of the many legal and policy requirements put forth by the destination country.

This is where a checklist for an expat in Switzerland - GlobalEye Switzerland can make things a lot easier, playing a key role in not only preparing you for the future, but for many things the authorities in the country will require from you.

Personal Belongings

The first and for most people most important concern is being able to take everything you need with you from your country of origin.

The law makes room for the possibility of bringing most of your personal items along, without attracting tax liability, but remember that you will have to show that you are doing this for the sake of permanently residing in the country unless you are a student.

Visas And Immigration

This process becomes a lot easier if you hail from one of the European Union member states, since these people will have a right to move to the country without a visa, needing a work and resident permit only for stays of more than 90 days.

Most other nationals will need a visa to enter the country, especially in the case of a stay of more than 90 days.

Securing a visa can take several months, usually somewhere from three to six, which means you need to plan accordingly, and remember that the application needs to be submitted from your home country.

After gaining the visa and travelling to Switzerland, you have two weeks to obtain a residence and work permit from local authorities.

Insurance

The requirement of mandatory health insurance is very common for travel to the Schengen area states. Same is the case for Switzerland.

For people looking to live in the country, there is the obligation of securing Swiss health insurance once the residence has been obtained, and you will need to register to make contributions to the system and enlist with a health insurance provider.

Employment

The country is characterized by healthy pay packages and very low employment.

While this makes working in the country a pleasurable experience, the advantages mean the competition is more intense. Still, the prospects can be bright for people who have been looking for and applying for jobs already, or have an extensive background to show in one of the many high-skill segments for which there is always great demand.