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Emigrating to Zurich: Your Stress-Free Path to the Swiss Metropolis
The dream of living in Zurich can come true! But before you pack your bags, there are a few things to consider. From house hunting to health insurance – we guide you step by step. Find out now how to optimally plan your move and what pitfalls to avoid. Do you need individual support? Contact us for personal advice!
The topic short and concise
The dream of living in Zurich can come true! But before you pack your bags, there are a few things to consider. From house hunting to health insurance – we guide you step by step. Find out now how to optimally plan your move and what pitfalls to avoid. Do you need individual support? Contact us for personal advice!
The dream of living in Zurich can come true! But before you pack your bags, there are a few things to consider. From house hunting to health insurance – we guide you step by step. Find out now how to optimally plan your move and what pitfalls to avoid. Do you need individual support? Contact us for personal advice!
The dream of living in Zurich can come true! But before you pack your bags, there are a few things to consider. From house hunting to health insurance – we guide you step by step. Find out now how to optimally plan your move and what pitfalls to avoid. Do you need individual support? Contact us for personal advice!
Planning to move to Zurich? This comprehensive guide provides you with all the information on visa requirements, finding accommodation, job opportunities, and much more – for a smooth start in Switzerland.
Are you planning to relocate to Zurich? Careful preparation is key to a successful new beginning in the Swiss metropolis. At GoMovin, we're here to help make your move as stress-free and efficient as possible. This guide provides an overview of the most important steps and aspects you should consider for your relocation to Zurich.
Initial Steps and Checklist
Structured planning is vital. Ideally, start your preparations 6-12 months before your planned move. This includes an intensive job search, particularly in sectors such as engineering, chemistry, healthcare, and education. Familiarise yourself with the current job offers and make connections. In parallel, you should plan your financial situation. An annual salary of at least CHF 50,000 is a good benchmark for living comfortably in Zurich. Gather all important documents, such as birth certificates, diplomas, and work references, ideally as originals and certified copies. Improve your language skills in both High German and Swiss German (Schwyzerdütsch) to ease integration.
Short-term Planning (1-3 Months in Advance)
The last few months before your move become more specific. Start with the search for accommodation in Zurich. Be aware that the cost of living is high and rents are correspondingly priced. Compare various offers and seek assistance from a local estate agent if necessary. Take out a mandatory health insurance in Switzerland and cancel your German insurance. Contact Swiss banks early to open a bank account. Cancel your German mobile and internet contracts, observing cancellation periods (usually 1 month due to relocation). At GoMovin, we offer comprehensive support with all these steps, from finding accommodation to opening a bank account. Our moving assistance is designed to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Stay in Zurich: How to Secure the Right Permit
For a longer stay in Zurich, you will need a residence permit. The regulations differ depending on your nationality. GoMovin assists you with applying for the necessary permits so that you can focus on your new start.
EU/EFTA Citizens
As an EU/EFTA citizen, you benefit from free movement. However, for a stay longer than 90 days, you require a permit.
Permit B (Residence Permit)
Validity: Generally 5 years, depending on having a work contract of at least 12 months.
Requirements: Valid work contract or proof of sufficient financial means.
Permit C (Settlement Permit)
Requirements: At least 5 years of uninterrupted stay in Switzerland.
Indefinite validity.
The application for Permit B is usually straightforward, provided you meet the requirements. Permit C allows you to reside permanently in Switzerland.
Non-EU/EFTA Citizens
Stricter immigration regulations apply for non-EU/EFTA citizens.
Quotas and Restrictive Immigration Policy
The number of permits for non-EU/EFTA citizens is limited. Quotas are set annually.
Requirement for a Valid Work Contract, Financial Independence, or Close Family Ties
To obtain a permit, you typically need a valid work contract, proof of financial independence, or close family ties to Switzerland. Immigration agencies can assist you in the application process.
Finances in Zurich: How to plan your budget optimally
The cost of living in Zurich is high. Therefore, realistic budgeting is essential to avoid financial surprises. We provide you with an overview of the most important financial aspects and taxes.
Cost of Living in Zurich
Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world. The high cost of living is reflected in rental prices, as well as the costs of food and services.
High cost of living: Basel as a comparison (Index 129.1).
A comparison with Basel, which has a cost of living index of 129.1, illustrates the high price level in Switzerland. The cost of living in Basel is already very high, and Zurich is comparable.
Budget: Between 5,000 and 9,000 EUR per month for two people (including rent).
For a couple, you should budget between 5,000 and 9,000 EUR per month, including rent. The actual costs depend on your lifestyle and individual needs. It is advisable to create a detailed budget to keep track of your expenses.
Swiss Tax System
The Swiss tax system is complex and differs from the German system.
Three-tier system: Federal, cantonal, commune.
The tax system is structured in three tiers: the federal government, cantons and communes levy taxes. Tax rates vary depending on the canton and commune.
Withholding tax: Initially imposed on foreign employees.
Foreign employees initially pay withholding tax, which is directly deducted from their salary. After a certain period or upon meeting specific conditions, you can apply for ordinary assessment.
Tax optimisation: Canton Zug offers the lowest tax burden.
Some cantons, like Zug, offer a lower tax burden than others. It may be worthwhile to consider these tax differences when choosing your place of residence.
Pension Entitlements
Your German pension entitlements remain valid even if you move to Switzerland.
German pension entitlements remain valid.
You do not lose your pension entitlements acquired in Germany if you move to Zurich in Switzerland. The pensions will continue to be paid.
Swiss Social Security System: Three pillars.
The Swiss social security system is based on three pillars: state, occupational and private pension plans. It is important to familiarise yourself with this system.
Clarification of existing pension entitlements is important.
Clarify your existing pension entitlements in both Germany and Switzerland to plan your retirement provision optimally.
Job search in Zurich: How to find the right job
Zurich offers a wide range of job opportunities, particularly in certain industries. A targeted job search and good German skills are essential for your success. We support you in your job search in Switzerland.
Labour Market in Zurich
The Zurich labour market is dynamic and offers attractive prospects for professionals.
Strong sectors: Mechanical engineering, chemistry, healthcare, education, IT, finance, engineering.
Professionals in mechanical engineering, chemistry, healthcare, education, IT, finance, and engineering are in high demand. Get informed about current job offers in these sectors.
High Salaries: Average gross monthly salary in Zurich is approximately 8,380 euros.
Salaries in Zurich are high compared to Germany. The average gross monthly salary is around 8,380 euros. However, note that the cost of living is also higher.
Linguistic Integration
German skills are essential for job hunting and integration into the labour market.
German skills are essential.
Good German language skills are a fundamental requirement for finding a job in Zurich. Many companies expect fluent German in both spoken and written form.
Understanding Swiss German (Schwyzerdütsch) is more important than speaking it fluently.
It is beneficial to understand Swiss German (Schwyzerdütsch), even if you don’t speak it fluently. This facilitates communication in everyday and professional life.
Application Process
The application process in Switzerland differs in some respects from that in Germany.
Prepare application documents in German or English.
Prepare your application documents in German or English. Pay attention to a professional design and complete information.
Professional networking is important.
Use your professional network and make connections with companies in Zurich. Attend job fairs and industry events.
Registration in Zürich: How to Master the Administrative Procedures
Upon your arrival in Zurich, you must register with the authorities. A correct and timely registration is important to legalise your stay. We help you in overcoming the bureaucratic hurdles.
Registration with the Municipality
Registering with the municipality is the first step after your arrival.
Deadline: Within 14 days of arrival.
You must register with the municipality within 14 days of your arrival. Bring your passport, residence permit, and rental contract.
Deregistration in Germany
Don’t forget to deregister in Germany.
Deadline: 14 days for deregistering your German residence.
You have 14 days to deregister with the German municipality. This is important to avoid double taxation and other issues.
Deregistration with tax office, municipality, utilities, TV licence, waste disposal.
Remember to deregister with the tax office, municipality, utilities, TV licence, and waste disposal services as well. Cancel your contracts and subscriptions.
Import and Customs Regulations
If you bring your belongings into Switzerland, you must comply with customs regulations.
Moving Goods: Detailed inventory list required for border crossing.
Create a detailed inventory list for your moving goods. This facilitates the border crossing and helps you keep track.
Furniture: For furniture under 6 months old and worth over 300 CHF, VAT may apply.
Note that VAT may apply to furniture under 6 months old and worth over 300 CHF. Inform yourself in advance about the applicable regulations.
Pets: EU pet passport and valid rabies vaccination required. Dogs must be registered with the residential control.
If you bring pets, you need an EU pet passport and a valid rabies vaccination. Dogs must be registered with the residential control.
Integration in Zürich: How to Settle in Quickly
Integration into Swiss culture is crucial for a successful life in Zurich. We provide tips on how to settle in quickly and feel comfortable.
Swiss Culture
Swiss culture is characterised by tradition, punctuality, and respect.
Subtle communication, patriotism, appreciation of regional cultures and dialects.
Communication is often more subtle than in Germany. Patriotism and the appreciation of regional cultures and dialects play an important role.
Direct democracy and less bureaucracy.
Direct democracy and less pronounced bureaucracy are a plus point for many Germans.
Reserved social culture at the beginning.
The social culture can appear a bit more reserved initially. It often takes a while to make friendships.
Integration
Active integration is the key to success.
Acquiring local knowledge and getting involved.
Acquire local knowledge and get involved in clubs or organisations. This helps you make contacts and integrate.
Precision and punctuality in everyday work.
Precision and punctuality are very important in the workplace. Be mindful to respect these values.
Linguistic Adaptation
Learning Swiss German significantly facilitates integration.
Learn Swiss German to integrate better.
Try to learn Swiss German to integrate better. There are numerous courses and apps that can assist you. We offer personalised cultural training to optimally prepare you for life in Zurich.
Cross-border commuters in Zurich: What you need to know
If you wish to work as a cross-border commuter in Zurich, there are some specific aspects to consider. We will inform you about the most important regulations and differences.
Permit G vs. Permit B
Choosing the right permit is crucial.
Cross-border Commuter (G-Permit): Residence in Germany, work in Switzerland.
As a cross-border commuter residing in Germany, you need a G-Permit. This allows you to work in Switzerland while continuing to live in Germany.
Residence in Switzerland: B-Permit required. Allows living and working in Switzerland, changing employers, or self-employment.
If you wish to relocate your residence to Switzerland, you need a B-Permit. This allows you to live and work in Switzerland and gives you more flexibility in choosing your employer.
Taxation Aspects for Cross-border Commuters
The taxation of cross-border commuters is complex.
Taxation in the canton of residence (withholding tax).
As a cross-border commuter, you are generally taxed in the canton of your residence. The withholding tax is directly deducted from your salary.
Strategic choice of canton for tax optimisation.
Choosing the canton can affect your tax burden. Be informed about the tax differences and choose the canton that is most advantageous for you.
Insurance
Check your insurance policies, especially your health insurance.
Review of insurance policies, particularly health insurance.
Make sure your insurance policies meet your needs. Specifically review your health insurance and adjust it if necessary.
Mandatory health insurance under Swiss law.
Under Swiss law, health insurance is mandatory. You must obtain coverage within three months of your arrival.
Support in Zürich: How to Find the Right Help
When emigrating to Zurich, there are many questions and challenges. We show you where you can find support and advice.
Immigration Agencies
Immigration agencies offer comprehensive services for German professionals.
"Immigrate Switzerland": Offers comprehensive services for German professionals (residence permit, job placement, housing search, insurance advice).
"Immigrate Switzerland" provides comprehensive support with all steps of your emigration to Zurich, from applying for a residence permit to finding a place to live and getting insurance advice.
Cross-Border Experts
Cross-border experts offer personalised advice on cross-border matters.
Offers personalised advice on cross-border matters.
If you want to work as a cross-border commuter in Zurich, the cross-border experts can assist you with their expertise.
Additional Resources
There are numerous other resources that can assist you with your emigration to Zurich.
Advice on tenancy law and employment law.
Inform yourself about tenancy and employment law in Switzerland. There are advisory centres that can help with any questions. We at GoMovin provide our experience and network to make your move as smooth as possible. Testimonials from other emigrants can also provide valuable insights.
Your fresh start in Zurich: Kick-off now stress-free!
Emigrating to Zurich is a significant step that requires careful planning. With the right preparation and support, you can successfully start anew in the Swiss metropolis. At GoMovin, we stand by you as an experienced partner and support you in all aspects of your move. From planning to execution and integration – we are here for you.
We understand that a move abroad raises many questions and can be accompanied by uncertainties. That's why we offer you comprehensive advice and support tailored to your individual needs. Our goal is to make your move as simple and stress-free as possible, so you can fully focus on your new chapter in life.
Whether it’s about applying for a residence permit, finding accommodation, organizing the move, or integrating into Swiss culture – we are here for you. We have a large network of partners and experts who can assist you with all questions and issues. Check the official Swiss authorities' websites for all the necessary information.
With GoMovin by your side, you can sit back and enjoy your move to Zurich. We take care of everything, so you can focus on what matters most: your new job, your new home, and your new life in Switzerland.
Are you ready for your stress-free start in Zurich? Contact us today for a non-binding consultation. Together, we will plan your move and ensure that everything runs smoothly. We look forward to meeting you!
Further useful links
Das Bundesamt für Statistik (BFS) bietet detaillierte Schweizer Statistiken zu Bevölkerung und Migration, die für Ihre Umzugsplanung nützlich sein können.
Die Schweizerische Nationalbank (SNB) informiert über die aktuelle Wirtschaftslage in der Schweiz, was bei finanziellen Entscheidungen im Zusammenhang mit Ihrem Umzug hilfreich ist.
On the website of the City of Zurich, you can find official information about living and residing in Zurich, including relevant authority contacts and registration procedures.
FAQ
Which residence permit do I need as an EU citizen for a longer stay in Zurich?
As an EU citizen, you need a residence permit for stays over 90 days. The Permit B is generally valid for 5 years, depending on a work contract of at least 12 months. The Permit C can be obtained after at least 5 years of uninterrupted residence in Switzerland and is unlimited.
How high are the living costs in Zurich and how can I optimally plan my budget?
Zurich is among the most expensive cities in the world. Plan a monthly budget of between 5,000 and 9,000 EUR for two people, including rent. A detailed budget plan is essential to avoid financial surprises. GoMovin supports you with budget planning and helps you find cost-effective alternatives.
Which industries offer good job opportunities in Zurich and what language skills are required?
There is strong demand for professionals in the sectors of mechanical engineering, chemistry, healthcare, education, IT, finance, and engineering. Good German skills are essential, and understanding Swiss German (Schwyzerdütsch) is advantageous, even if you do not speak it fluently.
How do I register with the authorities after my arrival in Zurich and what deadlines must I observe?
You must register with the local municipality within 14 days of your arrival. Don't forget to deregister from your German municipality within 14 days to avoid double taxation.
What special conditions apply to cross-border commuters wishing to work in Zurich?
As a cross-border commuter residing in Germany, you need a G Permit. If you wish to relocate to Switzerland, you require a B Permit. Taxation usually occurs in the canton of your residence (withholding tax).
How can GoMovin support me with my relocation to Zurich?
GoMovin offers comprehensive support in all aspects of your relocation, from planning to execution to integration. We assist you with applying for residence permits, searching for accommodations, organizing the move, and integrating into Swiss culture.
What tax aspects must I consider when relocating to Zurich?
The Swiss tax system is structured in three levels: federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes are levied. Foreign workers initially pay withholding tax. Some cantons, like Zug, offer lower tax rates. GoMovin advises you on optimal tax planning.
How do I secure my pension entitlements if I relocate to Zurich?
Your German pension entitlements remain valid even if you move to Switzerland. The Swiss social security system is based on three pillars: state, occupational, and private pension schemes. Clarify your existing pension entitlements, both in Germany and in Switzerland.
