Moving to Switzerland — the most important administrative steps

Moving to Switzerland — these administrative tasks await you

A move to Switzerland is an exciting change, but also brings numerous administrative tasks with it. Whether you are coming from the EU, moving as a family or as an individual — the most important steps are the same. To help you keep track, I will guide you through the essential administrative processes and explain what you need to pay attention to.

Most tasks must be completed within 14 days of your arrival. With a structured checklist, this process becomes much easier. Let me guide you through the individual steps.

Step 1: Registration with the municipal office

The first step is to register with the responsible municipality. This is a legal requirement in Switzerland and must normally be done within 14 days of your arrival. Bring your passport or ID card, your rental agreement and, if available, a criminal record certificate.

After successful registration, you will receive the municipality number and the AHV number (old-age and survivors' insurance) — you will need these numbers for practically all further administrative steps. Contact the municipality in advance to ask about the exact opening hours and required documents.

Step 2: Health insurance — insurance within 3 months

Compulsory health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland. You have three months to register with a health insurance provider — after that, insurance gaps can become expensive. According to the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG), this is one of the most important insurance policies of all.

Premiums vary depending on the canton, age and deductible. On priminfo.admin.ch you can compare all premiums and find the best offer for your situation. A comparison is worthwhile: the differences between health insurers can amount to CHF 50–100 per month. Make sure you choose the appropriate deductible (CHF 300, 500 or 2500).

Step 3: Register for taxes and clarify residence permit

Within 30 days of registering with the municipality, you must register with the cantonal tax office. Also remember that you may need to withdraw from your home country (e.g. Slovakia, Czech Republic) — find out in good time to avoid double taxation. According to the Federal Tax Administration (ESTV), there are bilateral agreements that can help you.

If you are not an EU citizen, check your status with the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). Depending on your nationality, you may need a residence visa. EU/EFTA citizens usually have freedom of movement and can settle freely — but do check in advance.

Step 4: Occupational pension scheme (BVG) and AHV/IV/EO clarified

If you are employed in Switzerland, occupational pension provision (also known as the 2nd pillar or BVG) is automatically mandatory. Your employer will register you — but you must check that the registration has been completed. The BVG regulates your old-age provision, disability and death benefits and is closely linked to your AHV number.

If you are self-employed, you must register yourself with the AHV and optionally build up additional provision. The salary certificate (beginning of March) will later show you how much goes into social insurance. This is important to understand for your tax return.

Step 5: Home contents insurance and other insurance

In addition to health insurance, you should also consider household contents insurance — this covers your personal possessions. Especially if you have valuable jewellery, electronics or other valuables, household contents insurance is worthwhile. Costs are typically CHF 100–300 per year, depending on the sum insured.

If you are a tenant, personal liability insurance is also important — it protects you against claims for damages that could arise with your landlord. Our services help you choose the right insurance.

Step 6: Register for family allowances and childcare

If you have children, you may be entitled to family allowances and child deductions in your tax return. These must be registered with the municipality and vary depending on the canton (typically CHF 200–250 per child per month). According to the Federal Social Insurance Office (BSV), it is worthwhile to arrange this promptly, as retrospective payments are often limited.

Also find out about childcare and preschool offerings — these are partly subsidised in Switzerland and can save considerable costs.

Step 7: Moving checklist and first weeks

In addition to official registrations, there are practical tasks: electricity contract, internet, address change with your bank, mail order and online accounts. In Switzerland, energy prices vary by region — compare offers from your local electricity supplier.

Plan time for opening a bank account — you usually need proof of registration with the municipality. A Swiss mobile contract is also quickly arranged and often cheaper than international roaming. With a systematic approach, you will be fully registered within a few weeks.

Checklist for a successful move

• Register with the municipality within 14 days
• Request and note down AHV number
• Choose and register health insurance (deadline: 3 months)
• Register with the tax office (within 30 days)
• Clarify residence permit and visa (if necessary)
• Check BVG/AHV (if employed)
• Take out household contents and liability insurance
• Register for family allowances (if you have children)
• Arrange electricity contract, internet and bank

Conclusion: Have an advisor by your side

A move to Switzerland involves many administrative tasks — from insurance to taxes to social security. Those who meet all deadlines and make the right decisions will save time and money later. Book a free consultation appointment with Helpner to ensure you don't miss anything important.

Your advisor will be happy to help — whether in choosing the right insurance, clarifying your tax situation or optimising your provision. With professional support, moving to Switzerland becomes much less stressful.