The most frequently asked questions: Emigration Switzerland

Switzerland scores points for its high quality of life, stable economic policy, impressive mountain landscape and attractive labour market. The feeling of security and the warmth of the people are also among the plus points. Another important point is the financial aspect: wages are generally higher than in Germany. This mixture of security, economic advantages and first-class living comfort makes Switzerland one of the most popular destinations for German emigrants.

A visit to the GP for a cold usually costs between 100 and 150 francs. For specialists, such as an eye specialist, on the other hand, you pay around 300 to 350 francs. Specialist appointments are therefore more expensive than visits to the general practitioner. A check-up including a blood test costs between 250 and 400 francs. Annual teeth cleaning costs between 140 and 180 francs, while you can expect to pay between 250 and 400 francs for fillings. Medical appointments are usually covered by basic insurance and count towards the deductible. Preventive check-ups, on the other hand, may be covered by supplementary insurance so that no deductible applies.

Before you move to Switzerland, you should take care of a few important things, such as cancelling unnecessary insurance policies or setting up a forwarding order with the post office. After the move, you must register with the town hall of your municipality in good time. It is also important to take out the necessary insurance in Switzerland at an early stage, such as personal liability insurance for tenant damage, in order to protect yourself financially in the event of a claim.

Some types of insurance are compulsory in Switzerland, such as basic health insurance and motor vehicle liability insurance if you are bringing a car. In addition, it is advisable to take out further insurance policies at an early stage to protect yourself financially. These include personal liability insurance for damage to third parties or rented property, household contents insurance with theft protection and legal expenses insurance for disputes with your landlord or employer. These insurances offer you solid protection in many areas of your new life.

Your net income in Switzerland is influenced by various factors, including your withholding tax rate. For example, if you earn CHF 6,000 gross, are 32 years old, single and live in Zurich, your net income after tax and social security contributions would be around CHF 4,700. Another example: A 45-year-old married person with a gross salary of CHF 8,000 who lives in Bern would have a net income of around CHF 6,000 after deductions.

How much you should earn in Switzerland depends on your standard of living and your family situation. A monthly income of at least CHF 4,000 is recommended for a single person, around CHF 5,500 for a couple and at least CHF 6,000 for a family with one child. A budget plan that includes expenses such as rent, insurance, food and mobility is helpful. Wondering what the average income in Switzerland is? You can find an overview in our salary table.

Rental prices in Switzerland vary depending on the region, urban or rural location, flat size and standard (e.g. new build). A 1.5-room flat costs an average of CHF 1,200 per month, while a 4-room flat costs around CHF 2,100. These figures give a rough overview, although location and furnishings can make considerable differences. For car drivers: An outdoor parking space costs around 80 francs per month, an underground parking space around 150 francs.

If you are moving from Germany to Switzerland, you must declare your car to Swiss customs as removal goods. If you have had the car for more than 6 months, you can import it duty-free. At customs, you will need documents such as the vehicle registration document, the vehicle licence and proof of your move, e.g. your rental contract in Switzerland. They will give you a form with your Swiss licence number. You then make an appointment online for the motor vehicle inspection (MFK, comparable to the TÜV) at the road traffic office. After a successful inspection, you will receive your Swiss licence plates. We will be happy to help you import your vehicle and send you the necessary insurance documents.

Items that belong to you and that you have owned for more than 6 months are considered personal effects. The decisive factor here is your date of entry into Switzerland. This includes furniture, clothing, jewellery and also your car if you have owned it for more than 6 months. The advantage: you can import household effects into Switzerland duty-free. Incidentally, you don't have to transport everything at once, but can import your removal goods in several stages. However, it is important that you declare your car as removal goods at customs on the day of your official move.

Yes, your car will be recognised as removal goods if you have owned it for at least 6 months before your move. This means you benefit from simplified customs procedures and there are no import duties. The prerequisite is that you present the necessary documents to prove ownership and period of use. This includes the vehicle registration document, the vehicle licence, the purchase contract and documents proving your relocation, such as a Swiss employment or rental contract.

Yes, basic insurance is compulsory in Switzerland, while supplementary insurance is voluntary. As basic insurance does not cover all costs, it makes sense to take out supplementary insurance to better cover financial risks in the event of illness. After registering with the municipality, you have 90 days to choose a health insurance company. Please note that your obligation to pay contributions applies retroactively from your date of arrival. You should therefore not delay taking out insurance, as you are only covered by basic insurance in the meantime. We will be happy to help you find a suitable combination of basic and supplementary insurance.

Your monthly health insurance premiums depend on factors such as age, gender, deductible, the health insurance model you choose (e.g. telemedicine) and your place of residence. Rates are often higher in cities than in rural areas. Basic insurance is compulsory, supplementary and hospitalisation insurance is voluntary. The monthly costs are usually between CHF 100 and 200 for children, between CHF 150 and 300 for adolescents and between CHF 300 and 500 for adults.

The amount of tax in Switzerland is individual and depends on your income, marital status and place of residence. During the first 5 years with a B permit, withholding tax is deducted directly from your salary, although the rates vary depending on the canton. However, if you earn more than CHF 120,000 a year, you must submit a regular tax return even with a B permit, which may mean additional tax at source. Tip: You can reduce your tax burden by paying into pillar 3a.

The deductible is your own contribution to your health insurance, comparable to the excess in Germany. It is compulsory and ranges between CHF 300 and CHF 2500. A higher deductible means lower monthly premiums. If you are healthy, you often choose the maximum deductible of CHF 2,500 to save costs. However, if you regularly need expensive medication, the minimum deductible of CHF 300 may be a good idea. You can adjust your deductible every year on 1 January, which gives you the flexibility to adapt it to your current health situation. Questions? We'll be happy to help you.

As a German citizen, you need a Swiss employment contract and rental agreement to register with the municipality. The employment contract proves your employment, the rental contract your residential address. Both are essential for the registration process. You can also move to Switzerland if you are self-employed. In this case, you should contact the migration office in your canton of residence in good time. Among other things, you must submit a business plan and show that you can earn a living. Do you need help? We are happy to support you with Emigrating to Switzerland.

If you are planning to move to Switzerland from Germany, start by updating your application documents. Your CV should be 2-3 pages long, while your cover letter should be short and concise. You can find helpful tips here: Job search Switzerland. Suitable job offers can be found on platforms such as www.jobs.chwhere you can filter by profession and region. Patience is important - it is normal to receive 5 to 10 rejections or no response. Our tip: Don't get discouraged. Many Germans find a job in Switzerland - soon you might too!

The B residence permit also serves as a work permit; a separate work permit is not issued for German nationals. You apply for the B permit at your municipality of residence, i.e. at the town hall. You will first receive a registration certificate confirming your residence in Switzerland. The actual B permit usually follows after 3-4 weeks. Don't worry: you can already work with the registration certificate. To speed up the process, bring all the necessary documents such as your employment contract, rental agreement and your German identity card with you. For example, if you want to work as a nurse, you will need to submit your diploma to the Swiss Red Cross (SRC). For doctors with a university degree, the Medical Professions Commission (MEBEKO) in Bern is responsible. These procedures ensure that your qualifications meet Swiss standards. As recognition can take up to three months, we recommend starting the process well in advance of your move.

Depending on the sector, your training will be recognised differently in Switzerland. For example, if you want to work as a nurse, you must submit your diploma to the Swiss Red Cross (SRC). For doctors with a university degree, the Medical Professions Commission (MEBEKO) in Bern is responsible. These procedures ensure that your qualifications meet Swiss standards. As recognition can take up to three months, we recommend starting the process well in advance of your move.

Yes, with Swiss basic insurance you are also covered in emergencies in Germany. In addition, some health insurance companies offer supplementary insurance that covers planned treatments and check-ups in Germany. One advantage of such supplementary insurance is that you do not have to pay a deductible for planned treatments in Germany. We will be happy to help you choose the right health insurance and are familiar with the offers of all Swiss health insurance companies: Contact form.

Your German pension will be paid to you at retirement age for the years you worked in Germany, regardless of whether you spend your retirement in Switzerland or elsewhere. If you have also worked in Switzerland, you are also entitled to retirement benefits from the Swiss pension scheme. This includes the AHV from the first pillar and benefits from the occupational pension scheme from the second pillar. Do you have any questions? We will be happy to help you: Contact form.

You register your company in the commercial register of your canton. You will need a business plan, identification documents and, depending on the legal form, capital contributions. Sole proprietorships do not necessarily have to be entered in the commercial register, unless they have an annual turnover of CHF 100,000 or more.

No, Swiss basic insurance is compulsory. You must choose a Swiss health insurance company within 90 days of your move. Exceptions only apply in very rare cases, e.g. for cross-border commuters.

The canton of residence plays a decisive role in your tax burden, as tax rates in Switzerland are not standardised nationwide, but are regulated at cantonal and sometimes even municipal level. Each canton sets its own tax rates for income, wealth and corporate taxes. For example, particularly low tax rates apply in cantons such as Zug or Schwyz, while the burden is higher in cantons such as Geneva or Jura. This means that your net income can vary greatly depending on where you live, even if your gross income is the same. The picture is similar for health insurance premiums: each health insurance company sets its premiums according to region and canton, based on healthcare costs and local needs. In urban areas such as Zurich or Geneva, premiums are often higher than in rural regions such as Appenzell or Glarus.

It is based on three pillars: AHV (state pension), occupational pension provision (pension fund) and private pension provision (pillar 3a). As an employee, you automatically pay into the AHV and pension fund. Additional contributions to pillar 3a are voluntary and can be deducted from your taxable income, provided you complete your tax return.

There is no national minimum wage, but in some cantons, e.g. Geneva and Neuchâtel, cantonal minimum wages of around 20 to 23 francs per hour apply.

In most cases, German school-leaving qualifications are recognised, especially the Abitur. However, depending on the training and profession, recognition by Swiss authorities may be required, e.g. by MEBEKO or the SRC (nursing professions, etc.).

A monthly travelcard for commuters costs between CHF 100 and CHF 250, depending on the route and region. A GA travelcard, which is valid for the entire country, costs around 3995 francs per year for adults (2nd class, adults, as of 2024).

Although personal liability insurance is not required by law, it is highly recommended. Landlords often require it to cover tenant damage. The costs are around CHF 100 to 200 per year, depending on whether you choose a sum insured of 5 million or 10 million and whether you insure yourself or your entire family.

After registering in your commune of residence, it usually takes around 3 to 6 weeks for your residence permit to be issued. Once you have registered, you will receive an invitation from your canton's migration office to complete the next steps. At this appointment, your biometric data, such as fingerprints and a passport photo, will be recorded, which are required to issue the permit. In the meantime, you can already work and start your job with the registration certificate that you receive directly at the registration desk. It is important to attend this appointment at the Migration Office as soon as possible to avoid delays in issuing your permit.

You can choose between crèches, childminders or after-school care centres. Costs range from 1000 to 2500 francs per month, depending on the region. Some cantons offer subsidies.

As a foreigner with a B permit, you can buy residential property if you live in it yourself. Stricter rules apply to holiday homes or investment properties.

Yes, many policies can be cancelled early if you move abroad. Inform your insurer in good time and clarify cancellation periods.

In Switzerland, there is a high demand for skilled labour in the healthcare, IT, engineering, construction and finance sectors. Doctors, nurses, software developers, electrical engineers, construction managers and banking specialists are particularly sought after. Skilled trades such as carpenters, electricians and plumbers also have good opportunities on the labour market. Switzerland attaches great importance to qualifications, which is why foreign qualifications must be partially recognised. Depending on the profession, recognition is carried out by various institutions such as the Swiss Red Cross (SRC) for nursing professions or the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) for academic qualifications. Finding out about recognition at an early stage can speed up the application process considerably.

Switzerland is known for its federal tax system, with each canton setting its own tax rates. The cantons of Zug, Schwyz and Nidwalden are particularly attractive, as they have some of the lowest income taxes. Lucerne and Obwalden also offer favourable tax rates compared to other regions. On the other hand, cities such as Geneva, Lausanne and Bern are known for their higher tax rates. The choice of canton of residence can therefore have a significant impact on the tax burden. There are also numerous tax advantages for companies and the self-employed in tax-friendly cantons, including reduced corporate taxes.

Yes, there are some significant differences. There is no nationwide statutory minimum wage in Switzerland, although some cantons have their own regulations. The working week is between 40 and 45 hours, depending on the industry, which is longer than in Germany. Notice periods are generally shorter and there is no statutory severance pay for redundancies. Social security contributions are lower than in Germany, which means that more net is left over from the gross salary. In addition, there is no statutory parental leave in Switzerland, but maternity and paternity leave.

Switzerland has its own culture with many traditions that differ from Germany. German expats are often perceived as direct and dominant, while the Swiss have a more reserved and diplomatic style of communication. There are also cantonal differences in dialect and mentality, which is why it is helpful to familiarise yourself with the local culture. Clubs and local events are a good way to socialise and integrate more quickly. The rules for being on first-name terms are also different in Switzerland: While many people in Germany are quick to address each other as "Du", in Switzerland the "Sie" persists for longer - even in casual working environments. A respectful and patient approach makes the integration process much easier.

The healthcare system in Switzerland is based on the principle of personal responsibility. Every resident must take out basic insurance (health insurance), which is organised independently of the employer. There is no free state health care as in Germany - every service is billed directly via the health insurance fund or as a self-payer. Basic insurance only covers necessary medical treatment, hospitalisation and medication, while supplementary insurance is required for comfort benefits such as a single room or alternative treatments. The cost of health insurance varies between CHF 300 and CHF 500 per month depending on the deductible, place of residence and insurer. Visits to the doctor and medication must be paid for up to the chosen deductible (excess), which means that a higher deductible is worthwhile for healthy people in order to reduce monthly premiums.

The school system in Switzerland differs greatly from Germany, as it is organised on a cantonal basis. In most cantons, compulsory schooling begins at the age of four (kindergarten) and lasts until the age of 15 or 16. After that, there are various educational pathways: the majority of pupils complete a dual vocational training programme with an apprenticeship contract, while higher-achieving pupils attend a grammar school and later go on to study. One major difference to Germany is that there are no standardised nationwide Abitur examinations and university entrance requirements vary from canton to canton. International schools are mainly available in large cities, but are often very expensive.

Rental agreements in Switzerland are usually long-term and may contain a minimum rental period of one year. The notice periods are often three months and must be given by certain dates specified in the tenancy agreement. In many cases, the tenant must provide a new tenant when they move out if they wish to give early notice. It is also customary to pay a rental deposit of up to three months' rent, which is held in a special blocked account. Flats in Switzerland are often rented unfurnished, and fitted kitchens or lamps are often not part of the basic furnishings.

Moving to Switzerland requires careful financial planning. In addition to the moving costs, you should plan at least three months' rent as a financial reserve, as deposits and first rents often have to be paid in advance. Alternatively, it is advisable to take out rental deposit insurance, which saves you the deposit that would be due at the start of the tenancy. Registering with a Swiss health insurance company also requires financial resources. You are required to take out basic health insurance from the date you move here. If you do not find a job immediately, you must prove that you can finance your own living expenses.

Although Germany and Switzerland are geographically close to each other, there are some cultural differences. The Swiss attach great importance to politeness, restraint and discretion. While Germans are often seen as direct and demanding, the Swiss are more reserved in their communication and expect diplomatic language. Punctuality is extremely important in Switzerland - both in professional and private life. Club life also plays a major role, and many Swiss people socialise primarily through leisure clubs.

Yes, there is a motor vehicle tax in Switzerland, but it is regulated at cantonal level. This means that the amount of tax varies from canton to canton. While some cantons calculate the tax based on vehicle weight, others determine the tax based on engine power or CO₂ emissions. In Zurich, for example, the tax is based on power in kilowatts, while in the canton of Bern the total weight of the vehicle plays a role. Electric vehicles are tax-privileged or even tax-free in many cantons. In addition to motor vehicle tax, drivers in Switzerland must also purchase a motorway sticker, which currently costs CHF 40 per year and is required to use the national roads. Anyone bringing their car into Switzerland from Germany must register it within a year and also take into account the cantonal taxes.

Switzerland's public transport network is one of the best in the world. The SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) operates the national train network, which is punctual and reliable. In addition to the trains, there is a dense network of buses, trams and cable cars connecting both urban and rural areas. Many commuters use the Half-Fare travelcardwith which journeys are possible at half price, or the GA (General Abonnement)which allows unlimited travel by train, bus and boat. Ticket prices are high compared to Germany, but there are numerous discounts for frequent travellers. Drivers benefit from the fact that there are fewer traffic jams in Switzerland compared to Germany, which is due to the well-developed public transport system. If you are travelling from Germany and don't have your own car, you can rest assured that you can get to almost anywhere without a vehicle.

Yes, in Switzerland there is the Serafe levywhich is mandatory for all households and serves to finance public broadcasting. The fee is currently CHF 335 per year and is automatically charged to every household. In contrast to the German GEZ, the fee does not depend on whether you actually use radio or television. Companies with a turnover of over CHF 500,000 must also pay a licence fee. People with a visual or hearing impairment and certain welfare recipients can be exempted from the fee. Anyone who does not pay the fee risks reminder fees and a report to the debt collection office, which can have a negative impact on their credit rating.

The Swiss banking system differs from the German system in several respects. There are numerous banks in Switzerland, including major banks such as UBS and Credit Suisse (now part of UBS), cantonal banks and many smaller private banks. To open an account, you need a residence permit or a Swiss address. In contrast to Germany, many current accounts are subject to a fee - the monthly charges vary between 5 and 15 francs depending on the bank. Cash is still widely used in Switzerland, although card payments and mobile payments (e.g. TWINT) are becoming increasingly popular. Another feature of the Swiss banking system is the high level of data protection - Swiss banks are subject to strict data protection guidelines, which are also of interest to international customers.

Self-employed people in Switzerland have to take care of their own tax and social security contributions. In contrast to Germany, there is no compulsory membership of a statutory pension scheme - instead, the self-employed pay into the AHV on a voluntary basis. Income tax is calculated differently from canton to canton and is often lower for the self-employed than for employees, as many business expenses are tax-deductible. One advantage for entrepreneurs is that there is no trade tax in Switzerland as there is in Germany. Anyone setting up a sole proprietorship in Switzerland can do so easily, but must be resident in the country. VAT is currently 8.1 % and must be paid from an annual turnover of CHF 100,000.

Germans who emigrate to Switzerland retain their German pension insurance entitlements. This means that all pension contributions paid in Germany up to the time of the move are retained and paid out at retirement age. Switzerland has a social security agreement with Germany which stipulates that pension entitlements are recognised across national borders. Anyone who works in Switzerland pays into the AHV, which is paid out later together with the German pension. The pension is paid into either a German or a Swiss account, whereby exchange rate fluctuations must be taken into account. Pensioners who live permanently in Switzerland must pay tax on their pension in Switzerland - this can have different tax implications depending on where you live.

Yes, but there are restrictions. Not all foreigners are allowed to buy property in Switzerland without restrictions. While EU citizens with a C permit can buy property without restrictions, people with a B permit need a cantonal permit if they want to buy a second home or a holiday home. In some tourist regions, there are restrictions on purchases by foreigners in order to prevent a housing shortage for locals. The property market in Switzerland is expensive - purchase prices are particularly high in cities such as Zurich and Geneva. If you want to take out a mortgage, you generally have to contribute 20 % of the purchase price as equity, as Swiss banks have strict financing guidelines.

Property prices in Switzerland are among the highest in Europe, especially in cities such as Zurich, Geneva and Basel. A condominium there often costs between CHF 10,000 and CHF 15,000 per square metre, while prices of CHF 5,000 to CHF 8,000 per square metre are common in more rural areas. If you want to buy a property, you must have at least 20 % of equity, as Swiss banks have stricter mortgage guidelines than German ones. In addition, there are restrictions on property purchases for foreigners with a B permit - especially for holiday homes and second homes. Buying property is particularly worthwhile for long-term stays, as rental prices are also high and residential property is considered a stable investment. Anyone wishing to buy in Switzerland should find out about cantonal regulations, as these can vary considerably.

When buying or renting a property in Switzerland, there are additional costs on top of the purchase price or rent. The ancillary costs usually include heating costs, water, electricity, waste disposal charges and maintenance costs and usually amount to 10-20 % of the net rent. In the case of condominiums, maintenance costs for the property, which are managed by a condominium owners' association (WEG), must also be taken into account. These include provisions for renovations, building insurance and administration costs. Anyone who owns their own home must also pay cantonal property taxes and, if applicable, property tax. The costs can vary greatly depending on the canton, which is why it is worth comparing different regions.

Switzerland is known for its first-class infrastructure, which is among the best in the world. Roads are excellently developed and regularly maintained, even in remote mountain regions. Motorways are in excellent condition and well signposted, and winter maintenance is efficient - even high-altitude passes are regularly cleared. Bridges and tunnels are also of high quality, and there are strict safety standards for construction and maintenance. The digital infrastructure is also of a high standard: fibre optic internet is widespread and the mobile network offers 4G and 5G coverage almost everywhere. All of this contributes to the high quality of life in Switzerland, as mobility and communication function smoothly.

Switzerland has extremely high food standards, both in terms of hygiene and the origin of the products. A large proportion of the food sold in Switzerland comes from regional production and is subject to strict quality controls. Dairy products, meat and bread are often of better quality than in Germany, but this is also reflected in the prices. Organic products are widely available, and many supermarkets such as Coop and Migros have their own organic lines. The traceability of food is also very transparent - many products are labelled with information on their origin. As Switzerland is not a member of the EU, it has its own regulations for pesticides and additives, which are often stricter than in the EU.

Switzerland offers an incredible variety of natural landscapes and sights that are ideal for day trips or weekend breaks. Whether hiking, skiing, boat trips or city breaks - Switzerland offers countless opportunities for excursions in every season. The most popular destinations include

• Zermatt and the Matterhorn: Switzerland's landmark with spectacular mountain panoramas and first-class hiking routes.
• Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe: The highest railway station in Europe with a breathtaking glacier landscape.
• Lake Lucerne: One of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland with historic steamboats and great hiking trails.
• Ticino: Mediterranean climate, Italian flair and beautiful lakes such as Lake Maggiore or Lake Lugano.
• Lauterbrunnen Valley: The valley of the 72 waterfalls, one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Europe.
• Bernese Oberland: Grindelwald, Interlaken and Schilthorn are the perfect regions for mountain lovers.
• Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen: The largest waterfall in Europe with spectacular viewing platforms.

Drinking water in Switzerland is of exceptionally high quality and can be drunk straight from the tap without hesitation. Around 80 % of water comes from natural springs, lakes and groundwater reservoirs, which are subject to strict controls. The legal requirements for drinking water are often stricter than for mineral water in shops, which is why many Swiss do not buy bottled water. Even in the mountains, there are numerous public fountains with fresh spring water. Thanks to careful treatment and regular quality controls, the water in Switzerland is virtually free of pollutants and microplastics. The country also has one of the best sewage systems in the world, which ensures that water quality is maintained in the long term.

Swiss restaurants attach great importance to regional, fresh and high-quality ingredients. Many establishments source meat, vegetables and dairy products directly from local farmers and deliberately avoid mass-produced goods. In addition, the hygiene regulations in the catering industry are extremely strict - regular inspections by the Federal Food Safety Authority ensure that the highest standards are met. Another factor is the Swiss food culture: instead of fast food, the focus is often on high-quality home cooking or fine dining. The price level also plays a role - as food is more expensive in Switzerland, guests expect excellent quality, which forces restaurants to continuously improve.

The meat sold in Switzerland often comes from smaller farms with high animal welfare standards. In contrast to other countries, there are strict regulations on animal husbandry and feeding - factory farming as in many EU countries is hardly common. Labels such as "IP-Suisse", "Bio Suisse" or "Natura-Beef" guarantee that the meat comes from sustainable production. The animals' feed is also usually GMO-free and contains no unnecessary additives. Swiss beef is particularly popular as it often comes from pasture-raised animals, which results in a more intense flavour. However, this quality comes at a price: Swiss meat is significantly more expensive than in Germany, but many consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable and ethical products.

Switzerland has a dense network of pharmacies and drugstores that offer excellent advice and high-quality products. Many medicines that are available over the counter in Germany are only available in Switzerland with a doctor's prescription, which ensures greater safety. In addition, most pharmacies sell complementary medicine products based on homeopathy or naturopathy - an area that is more widely accepted in Switzerland than in many other countries. The quality of cosmetics and health products is also very high, as they are subject to strict regulations. Thanks to the good training of the staff, you get sound advice, which can be a great help for expats in particular.

Switzerland enjoys a worldwide reputation as a particularly secure country - both in Europe and internationally. This status is based on several factors: political stability, a neutral foreign policy and a reliable legal system create trust. Added to this are a well-trained police force, a low crime rate and a strong sense of security among the population. The geographical location and high quality of life also contribute to the fact that both residents and visitors feel safe. Switzerland continuously invests in prevention, surveillance and emergency management - another reason why it regularly occupies top positions in international security rankings. It is precisely this security that is one of the main reasons why many people decide to emigrate to Switzerland. Those who emigrate are looking for stability, order and a safe environment - and they find all of this at the highest level in Switzerland.

No, Switzerland does not have a president like many other European countries. Instead, the political system is based on a collective leadership: the Federal Council. This consists of seven members who together form the executive. The role of the "President of the Confederation" rotates annually among the Federal Councillors and is purely representative - without any special powers. This model reflects the basic Swiss values of federalism, direct democracy and the distribution of power. For Emigrants to Switzerland This political system is often unfamiliar to emigrants, but it is also proof of the stability and proximity to the people that make life in Switzerland so attractive. Many people who emigrate to Switzerland appreciate precisely this stable order, the security in everyday life, the high quality of life and the economic and social reliability - factors that make Switzerland a favoured destination for emigrants.

If you want to emigrate to Switzerland, you will need financial reserves - the amount will vary depending on your situation. If you have an employment contract, you should have at least one to three months' salary in reserve to cover rent, deposit and emergencies. If you are planning to emigrate to Switzerland without a job, you will generally have to prove that you have significantly more assets. The cantonal authorities require you to be above the level of social welfare or supplementary benefits in the long term. The requirements are particularly high in expensive regions such as Zurich or Geneva. Emigrating to Switzerland is therefore possible if you can show that you can make a living in Switzerland.

Zurich, Zug, Aargau, Lucerne and Basel-Landschaft, for example, are particularly attractive for Germans wishing to emigrate to Switzerland. These regions offer good labour market opportunities, a high quality of life and proximity to Germany. Zurich is suitable for specialists in the financial and technology sectors. Zug scores with low taxes. Lucerne and Aargau are family-friendly. If you are planning to emigrate to Switzerland, you should choose your place of residence according to your profession, budget and personal situation - but at the same time remain flexible with regard to regions, as this will increase your chances of finding a job more quickly and being able to emigrate to Switzerland sooner.

Germans may enter Switzerland without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. However, a residence permit is required for a longer stay. If you want to emigrate to Switzerland and have an employment contract for at least one year, you will usually receive a B permit valid for five years. For temporary employment contracts of less than one year, only the L permit is usually issued, which is limited to the duration of the contract. Self-employed persons must provide proof of a viable business activity, pensioners sufficient assets and income. Anyone arriving without a job or financial means will not be granted a permit. Emigration to Switzerland therefore requires a clear economic basis and complete documentation.

This depends primarily on personal expenses, but living is generally most favourable in rural areas such as the Jura, Neuchâtel, Valais or Ticino. Rents, health insurance premiums and everyday costs can be lower there than in Zurich or Geneva. However, these regions - especially Jura, Valais and Ticino - are often remote from a German perspective and offer limited transport links and few job opportunities. Salaries there are also usually below the Swiss average. If you are planning to emigrate to Switzerland and attach importance to accessibility and the labour market, cantons such as Zurich, Basel, Thurgau, Lucerne, Zug or St. Gallen are often better - the price-performance ratio is more balanced there. Conclusion: When choosing a region, you should not only consider the cost of living, but also the job opportunities and - especially for families - the proximity of schools.