Moving to Switzerland in 2026: The Complete Hub

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Author: Flyto Editorial Team · Reviewed by: Joonas Nurminen, Sales Manager & Partner in

Last reviewed: 7.9.2026

Everything for your move to Switzerland, in one place. City-by-city relocation guides (Basel, Geneva, Zurich), route-by-route cost breakdowns, and the official admin steps — each written by our movers with sourced local detail. Start with your destination city or your route below.

City guides — moving to Switzerland

Moving routes to & from Switzerland

Planning the move itself as well? Costs, transit times and how to choose a mover are covered on our page about international moving companies in Switzerland.

Essential admin & paperwork in Switzerland

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit and to register when moving to Switzerland?
Switzerland is outside the EU, so all newcomers need a residence permit; EU/EFTA nationals apply through the simplified free-movement route. Within 14 days of arrival, and before your first working day, you must register in person (Anmeldung) at the residents’ registration office of your commune (Gemeinde), which then triggers the cantonal permit. Bring your passport, rental contract and, for family members, civil-status documents. (ch.ch)

Are there customs formalities for my household goods entering Switzerland?
Yes. Because Switzerland is not in the EU customs union, removal goods (Uebersiedlungsgut) must be declared to the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG). Household effects you have used for at least six months and are bringing with your change of domicile can be imported duty-free, but you must present the completed Form 18.44 in duplicate at the border. (BAZG)

How much does an international move to Switzerland cost and how long does it take?
Costs depend mainly on the volume of goods, the distance, access at both ends and any extra services such as packing, customs handling or storage, so figures vary considerably from one move to the next. The most reliable approach is an itemised, survey-based quotation rather than a flat estimate, and transit times likewise depend on your origin and route. (Flyto Relocation)

Can foreigners rent or buy a home in Switzerland?
EU/EFTA nationals resident in Switzerland can rent freely and, once resident, buy their main home on broadly the same terms as Swiss citizens, while purchases by non-resident foreigners are restricted under the Lex Koller rules. Landlords normally require a security deposit held in a blocked account, plus proof of income, and a registered address is needed for most administrative steps. (ch.ch)

How does healthcare work in Switzerland?
Basic health insurance is compulsory for everyone resident in Switzerland, and you must take out a policy with an approved insurer within three months of arrival; cover is then backdated to your arrival date. Insurance is bought individually from private insurers, and premiums vary by canton and provider. (Federal Office of Public Health)

Can I keep driving on my foreign licence in Switzerland?
You may drive on a valid foreign licence for 12 months from the date you register your address in Switzerland. To keep driving after that you must exchange it for a Swiss licence at your cantonal road traffic office; EU/EFTA licences are generally exchanged without a test. (ch.ch)

Sources

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Moving to Switzerland in 2026: The Complete Hub