17.09.2024
Living in Switzerland
Switzerland offers its residents a high quality of life, a rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. But moving to a new country is always challenging, and there are pros and cons of living in Switzerland. If you’re looking to move to this alpine nation or have recently arrived, our guide will give you an overview of what to expect.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Switzerland: Pros
1. EU and EFTA Citizens Can Become Residents Relatively Easily
Some people hesitate to consider Switzerland because they’re worried about the long road to citizenship. Although it can take a decade or more to become a Swiss citizen, residence permits are often easier to obtain. Once you have a C permit, you can live and work in every canton without restrictions.
If you’re an EU or EFTA citizen, you don’t have to apply for a visa. Instead, you can get a permit right away, as long as you either have a job or sufficient financial resources to sustain yourself. After five years, you’re eligible for citizenship. The process is even simpler for individuals who are either married to a Swiss citizen or descendants of a Swiss person.
2. English Is Spoken Widely
Languages are a major factor when considering the pros and cons of living in Switzerland. The national languages are German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Although knowing German and French can be very helpful, English is commonly spoken all over Switzerland. In Zurich, around 40% of people use English at work.
Swiss children are taught English from a young age, and many residents speak three or more languages. This makes everyday communication easy, even if you don’t speak the local language when you first arrive.
3. There Is a Great Expat Community
Finding people to socialise and network with has never been easier. Countless expat clubs like the American International Club Zurich and Meetup groups like Zurich Together or Basel Together provide regular opportunities for English-speaking people to meet up. You can also find other expats via Facebook groups.
4. High Housing Standards
Craftsmanship and precision are two important values in Switzerland. This is evident in the construction of homes, which are built to high standards thanks to strict building codes. The oldest Swiss chalet, Bethlehem House, was built in 1287 and lived in until the 1980s. It’s a good example of the durability of Swiss homes, many of which are centuries old and still in great shape.
Modern buildings in cities are often specifically built for multi-family occupancy, so they feature excellent insulation and great amenities. Because Swiss homes are so well-constructed, most residents don’t have to worry about drafts in the cold months and excessive heat in the summer.
5. It’s Easy to Get Around and Travel to Other European Countries
When it comes to the pros and cons of living in Switzerland, transport is another important factor. One of the best things about Switzerland is the extensive public transport network. The trains, buses, trams, and ferries are renowned for their reliability, efficiency, and punctuality. No matter where you have to go, there’s sure to be a suitable public transport option.
Even better, other European nations are at your fingertips when you live in Switzerland. From Zurich, it takes you just over three hours to get to Milan (Italy) by train. You can also get to Munich (Germany) and Dijon (France) in under four hours.
6. Great Education and Safety for Children
If you’re looking for a child-friendly country that offers security and good educational opportunities, Switzerland could be an excellent choice. The local school system is one of the best in the world. Students benefit from a comprehensive and diverse curriculum that works well for both academically-minded and practical individuals.
Another reason to move to Switzerland with kids is that most areas are safe. Children are actively encouraged to walk to school on their own and develop their independence. In Switzerland, your kids are more likely to spend a lot of time outdoors than in more car-centric societies.
Find out more: Podcast about Swiss schooling options with education consultant Stefanie Busse
7. Dozens of Outdoor Activities
Active people love Switzerland because outdoor activities are available year-round. In the spring, summer, and autumn, residents enjoy the 65,000 kilometres of local hiking trails, the many public swimming pools, and countless bike paths in the country and the cities. In the winter, favourite activities include skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Some cities like Bern even have free ice rinks.
8. Great Language Learning Opportunities
Although most people speak English in Switzerland, learning the local language is important if you want to settle in. Fortunately, there are countless opportunities to learn German, French, or Italian. If you’re sending your child to a Swiss public school, they will be automatically enrolled in a language course.
Additionally, you can find group courses, private tutors, and immersive experiences. Expat groups in every city organise language learning meetups, so you can get to know locals and practice your skills.
9. Low Unemployment
Living in Switzerland can be expensive, so you have to land a good job to make ends meet. There are plenty of employment opportunities, especially for highly skilled workers. Unemployment is low, at under 3%. Currently, there are shortages in many industries such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and construction. If you have good qualifications, you’re likely to find an excellent job.
Find out more: Podcast about learning Swiss German
Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland: Cons
1. Becoming a Resident Can Take a Long Time for Third-Country Nationals
As mentioned, moving to and working in Switzerland is easy for people from EU or EFTA countries and those who have Swiss family members. But those who come from other parts of the world, called third-country nationals, often struggle to obtain a residency permit and, ultimately, citizenship.
The best way to overcome this challenge is to build a strong skillset and reach out to potential employers. Some larger companies sponsor third-country nationals with unique skills and qualifications.
2. The Cost of Living Is High
One of the key points in every “pros and cons of living in Switzerland” list is the cost of living. In Switzerland, goods and services are around 26% more expensive than in the US. This means that someone with an American salary wouldn’t be able to afford the same type of lifestyle in Switzerland.
However, this is mostly compensated by Swiss salaries, which are higher than in other countries. When you move to Switzerland, you’re likely to earn significantly more than you did in your home country.
Further reading: How Much Do You Need to Comfortably Live in Switzerland?
3. Housing Can Be Hard to Find
Most Swiss cities are experiencing housing shortages, which makes finding a home time-consuming and costly. There are often multiple applicants for each property. To secure a house or apartment, you have to submit a strong application that demonstrates your financial stability.
Fortunately, there are several ways to increase your chances of finding a great home. If you’d like more information about how to rent, download our free “Living in Switzerland” ebook. It contains over 40 pages of helpful content about moving to Switzerland, including a comprehensive guide to finding housing.
4. Renting Can Be Challenging
Once you’ve found a place to rent, you have to adhere to the strict house rules set out by many landlords. They include respecting the quiet hours, purchasing the right kind of insurance, and correctly disposing of garbage.
Although expats often have trouble wrapping their heads around the rules at first, many eventually come to enjoy them because they promote order and quiet enjoyment of the property. Our “Living in Switzerland” ebook explains the most common building rules and the rental process in greater detail.
5. Making Swiss Friends Can Be Challenging
Another classic element on “pros and cons of living in Switzerland” lists is socialising. Swiss people are often seen as distant and reserved. Many have tight-knit friendship groups that are hard to break into. This can make socialising more challenging for newcomers, especially those who don’t yet speak the local language.
However, it’s worth noting that Swiss people tend to be very loyal once you’ve broken the initial barrier. Expats who have been in the country for a while often have a stable and reliable network of friends and business associates.
Learn more: Podcast about international associations in Switzerland
6. Everything Is Closed on Sundays
One of the biggest cultural differences between Switzerland and many other countries is that most shops are closed on Sundays and bank holidays. The Swiss take their days of rest very seriously. At first, this can be unexpected for expats who are used to 24/7 shops and restaurants. Over time, many start to appreciate the quieter pace of life and the fact that they can use Sundays to work on passion projects or socialise with family and friends.
7. Jobs for Expats Are Limited
Because English isn’t the primary language in Switzerland, some expats take longer to find a job. Good positions for those who don’t speak German or French are in limited supply and often highly specialised.
One of the best ways to increase your chances of landing a good job is to become fluent in the local language. Additionally, if you’d like to find a job as an expat, contact local staffing and recruitment agencies. Businesses like Rigby are happy to keep your CV on file and match you with suitable jobs in your desired area.
Moving to Switzerland
Once you’ve reviewed the pros and cons of living in Switzerland and decided that you’d like to make your move, it’s time to start planning. Switzerland is a very process-oriented country, so compile all your documents for your council registration and the tenancy application ahead of time.
Requirements
If you’re from an EU or EFTA country, you can move to Switzerland and look for a job once you’re here. If you’re from a non-EU or EFTA country, you have to get a highly specialized job or have a connection to a Swiss citizen to be able to live in Switzerland. The best way to find out whether you qualify for a residency permit is to contact the Swiss embassy in your country or speak to Swiss staffing experts.
Best Place to Live in Switzerland
The pros and cons of living in Switzerland differ depending on where you move. Most expats select one of Switzerland’s major cities: Zurich, Basel, or Geneva. Some also settle in a nearby commuter town because the cost of living tends to be lower, and there may not be as much competition for housing. Each location has something special to offer. If you can, visit all three cities and travel around the country to get a feel for the various areas before you move.
Moving to Zurich
With over 400,000 residents, German-speaking Zurich is by far the largest Swiss city. It is located in the north-central part of the country, at the tip of Lake Zurich. Residents enjoy the diverse cultural opportunities and the fact that this city is safe and efficient. Life in Zurich can be very expensive, which is why some people who work in the city commute from neighbouring towns like Winterthur or Uster.
Further Reading: Pros and Cons of Living in Zurich
Moving to Basel
Basel is another primarily German-speaking city. With a population of around 170,000, it’s much smaller than Zurich. This means that the atmosphere is calmer and less hectic, but also that there is less to explore.
Basel is generally considered safe, and it’s a great place to live if you’d like to visit Germany and France regularly. This is because Basel borders both of these countries. However, the Swiss mountains are less accessible because Basel is located in north-western Switzerland.
Further reading: Pros and Cons of Living in Basel
Moving to Geneva
Geneva is very international. Almost 40% of its 200,000+ residents are non-Swiss. This city lies at the southwestern end of Switzerland in an area called the Romandy. It is primarily French-speaking, although many locals also understand English.
Geneva is ideal for people seeking a milder climate because it’s usually warmer than the other major Swiss cities. It is considered more affordable than Zurich but less affordable than Basel.
Further reading: Pros and Cons of Living in Geneva
Further reading: Where Do Most Expats Live in Switzerland?
How Much Money Do You Need to Immigrate to Switzerland?
Relocating to Switzerland doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re moving to a furnished apartment, you might only have to cover your travel expenses. On the other hand, you will likely spend CHF 5,000 or more if you’re bringing your furniture and car from your home country or buying everything from scratch in Switzerland.
High-net-worth individuals from third countries who would like to become Swiss citizens but haven’t found a suitable job can pay to live in Switzerland by getting an Investor Visa. This requires an upfront payment of at least CHF 200,000 to the local canton or the establishment of a business with a turnover of at least CHF 1 million. The Switzerland Investor Visa is the most expensive way of immigrating to Switzerland.
Can I Move to Switzerland Permanently?
You can only move to Switzerland permanently if you have EU or EFTA citizenship, a suitable long-term job, or a family connection to a Swiss citizen. Expats with a fixed contract who don’t have EU or EFTA citizenship have to leave once they are no longer employed by a Swiss company.
In contrast, those with a permanent position or residents who have married a Swiss person can stay in the country indefinitely by obtaining a C permit. After ten years, they can apply for citizenship.
Daily Life in Switzerland
The best way to experience the pros and cons of living in Switzerland is to spend an extended time there. If you don’t have the opportunity to visit for several months ahead of your move, read as much as you can about what daily life in Switzerland is like.
Swiss Culture Facts
Switzerland is known for its chocolate, watches, and banks. But there’s more to Swiss culture than meets the eye.
Swiss People Marry Late
If you come from a country where most couples get married in their twenties, you might be surprised to learn that the majority of Swiss people don’t tie the knot until they’re 30 or older. This is partly because there is a big focus on education, so many people spend their twenties studying and initiating their careers.
Because Switzerland is a relatively expensive place to live, couples often decide to marry later in life, once they’re settled and financially stable. They tend to cohabit for some years before getting married.
Swiss People Own Lots of Guns, But There Is Little Crime
Did you know that many Swiss families own a gun? This is because military service is mandatory for men in Switzerland. Since gun owners are taught to store and use their weapons responsibly during their military training, the rate of gun-related deaths is very low. In 2020, there were only nine homicides by firearm in the entire country.
There Are 1,500 Lakes
People who enjoy outdoor adventures will find endless opportunities in Switzerland. This country is home to mountains, valleys, forests, and over 1,500 lakes. Best of all: the water is so clean that you can swim in most of the lakes.
3 Big Swiss Traditions
Aside from practical matters, cultural aspects are important when considering the pros and cons of living in Switzerland. The alpine nation is steeped in history and tradition. Some of the most beloved ones are Swiss National Day on August 1st, Fasnacht, and the Alpine Cow Descent.
The First of August
Swiss National Day commemorates the foundation of the Swiss Confederation, and it’s a national holiday. On the first of August, you’ll get to enjoy brunches at local farms, firework displays, parades and processions, traditional dishes such as Rosti and patriotic boiled eggs, and bonfires.
Fasnacht
Fasnacht is also known as Carnival, and it’s a lively celebration that takes place in winter. Every area celebrates it slightly differently, but parades, special music called Guggenmusik, and masked revellers are almost always present. Basel is known for its large and colourful Fasnacht.
Alpine Cow Descent
Many farmers take their cows to the Alps during the summer months. When they return to the valleys and villages in the autumn, the towns organise a celebration called Alpine Cow Descent. The cows and farmers are dressed up, and there are sometimes traditional dances and performances.
Important Things in Swiss Culture
Swiss culture is varied and diverse, and it can take years to get to know it well. If you want to start off on the right foot, remember these important aspects:
- Peaceful coexistence and neutrality are important values in Switzerland. Although they are manifested in politics, they also apply to daily life. To fit in, respect the local rules and the people around you.
- Another important cultural value is civic engagement. Switzerland is a direct democracy, which means that Swiss citizens actively participate in decision-making at all levels of government. This fosters a sense of civic pride and a collective spirit that is central to living in Switzerland.
- Quality and precision are crucial. The buildings, transport network, and products all reflect attention to detail and quality. It’s important to remember this when applying for jobs or interacting with locals in a professional capacity.
Average Cost of Living
The cost of living is relatively high in Switzerland when compared to other countries. Most families of four spend at least CHF 5,000 to 6,000 per month. If you’re living in a city, you can expect to spend significantly more because rents are very high. Dining out and other leisure expenses are more costly than in many other areas of the world. Fortunately, most people earn a high wage, so they still enjoy a good quality of life.
Daily Life
You might find that daily life is similar to what you’d experience in your own country, although you’ll notice that the pace is often slightly slower, especially on weekends. The culture is characterized by punctuality, orderliness, and work-life balance.
To make integration easier, browse the local council’s website before you move to your new home to find out about the rules and customs. Befriend one of your neighbours, and ask them about aspects of daily life like garbage collection and building rules. If you follow the guidelines set out by your council or local authority, you’ll have no trouble fitting in.
Transport
While you can own a car in Switzerland, this isn’t strictly necessary. The public transportation network is extensive and present in virtually every area of the country. You can purchase a general travelcard, also called General Abonnement (GA), for CHF 3,995 per year. This covers travel around the entire country. Many areas also have local travelcards that are significantly cheaper.
Renting vs. Buying
Around 60% of Swiss people rent. Homeownership isn’t very common because it can be expensive and challenging to find a house to buy. Renting is easy, and there are many regulations that make it safe and convenient. Expats almost always rent when they first move to Switzerland, especially if they aren’t sure whether they’d like to stay for more than a few years. There are also some house-buying restrictions for expats, especially those without a C permit.
Working in Switzerland
The quality and availability of jobs are a major factor of the pros and cons of living in Switzerland. If you have a well-paid job, good work-life balance, and friendly team, you’re likely to enjoy your time in Switzerland. At Rigby, we connect eligible IT professionals to Swiss companies.
Getting Paid to Move to Switzerland
Switzerland has been featured in the news around the world because a small Alpine town called Albinen is paying people to move there. The village has under 300 residents because locals are abandoning it for the surrounding cities. As a result, the regional government is offering Swiss citizens and anyone with a C permit thousands of francs to move there.
But settling in a secluded area of the country isn’t the only way to get paid to move to Switzerland. You can also get a lucrative job before you arrive. Several industries, including IT, are experiencing staff shortages, so now could be a great time to reach out to a recruitment agency.
What Salary Do You Need?
When compared to other countries, Swiss wages are high. In 2022, the average monthly salary was CHF 6788. If you earn more than this, you’re likely to have no problem getting by in Switzerland.
However, certain areas like Zurich and Geneva are significantly more expensive than others. If you’re planning on settling there, you might need a higher wage to feel comfortable.
Further Reading: How Much Do You Need to Comfortably Live in Switzerland?
Minimum Wage in Switzerland
In 2014, the Swiss population voted against a minimum wage of CHF 4,000 per month. However, several cantons have their own minimum wages. If you live in Neuchatel, you will earn at least CHF 21.09 per hour. In Jura, the minimum wage is CHF 20.60. Geneva has the highest minimum wage, at CHF 24.32 an hour. Recently, voters in Zurich City have also approved a minimum wage of CHF 23.90.
Is CHF 100,000 Enough?
CHF 100,000 per year is significantly more than the Swiss average wage. Someone earning this amount is unlikely to struggle unless they live in Switzerland’s most expensive cities.
Most Popular Jobs in Switzerland
Many jobs are in demand at the moment. Some of the most sought-after employees include:
- Healthcare Workers: Nurses, doctors, and pharmacists can expect good pay and benefits because there is a severe shortage.
- Technology Professionals: IT professionals and engineers are increasingly important to the Swiss economy. Skilled and experienced workers can expect good wages for the next decade or more.
- Business Professionals: Accountants, marketers, and other professionals who keep businesses running smoothly are always sought-after in Switzerland. The country runs on small and medium-sized companies, which make up over 99% of all enterprises. This means that skilled businesspeople can expect to land a job easily.
- Tradespeople: Although Switzerland has an excellent apprenticeship system, increasing numbers of young people want to go to university. That’s why skilled tradespeople like plumbers or carpenters are increasingly in demand.
Swiss Labour Laws
The Swiss emphasise work-life balance, so strong labour laws are in place. When you start to work with a company, you’ll sign a detailed work contract.
At first, most companies can dismiss you within a month. However, once you’ve worked with them for over two years, they have to give you two months’ notice. If you’ve been with a business for over ten years, the notice period is three months. There are also provisions for holidays, maternity and paternity pay, and paid sick leave.
Swiss Working Hours
Employees aren’t supposed to work more than 45 or 50 hours a week, and overtime is compensated at a much higher rate than regular work. These rules are designed to protect work-life balance and prevent overwork.
While there are pros and cons of living in Switzerland, many expats love the great quality of life, work-life balance, and range of free-time activities. If you’re ready to land a job in Switzerland and make your move, sign up for our Rigby AG newsletter to receive your free ebook. You can also fill out our application form. We’ll keep your CV on file and notify you whenever a suitable job comes up.