Expat Setup Guide
Your personalised checklist for the first 90 days.
Estimated costs at a glance
Find an apartment
Before arrivalSwiss rental markets can be very competitive, especially in cities. Start searching well before your move. You'll need a complete rental dossier — most landlords won't consider incomplete applications.
Register with your municipality
Within 14 daysVisit your local registration office to officially announce your arrival. This is your first legal obligation and unlocks everything else — health insurance, banking, and your residence permit.
Get health insurance (Krankenkasse)
Within 90 daysMandatory for all residents. Choose a provider within 90 days — coverage is retroactive to day one. Miss the deadline and the canton assigns you one at a higher premium.
Open a Swiss bank account
First 2 weeksYou'll need a Swiss IBAN to receive salary, pay rent, and set up direct debits.
Get household & liability insurance
Before moving inHousehold insurance (Hausrat) protects your belongings. Liability insurance (Privathaftpflicht) covers damage you cause to others. Most landlords expect both.
Exchange your driving licence
Within 12 monthsYour foreign licence is valid for 12 months. After that you must exchange it — or start the Swiss driving test from scratch.
Taxes in Zürich
Zürich uses a moderate tax multiplier. The municipal multiplier varies significantly — outer suburbs like Kilchberg or Zollikon have lower rates.
Emergency numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to get health insurance in Switzerland?
You have 90 days from your arrival date to choose a Swiss health insurance provider. The coverage will be retroactive to your arrival date. If you miss this deadline, you may be assigned a provider by the canton.
How much does health insurance cost in Switzerland?
Health insurance premiums vary significantly by canton, age, and chosen franchise (deductible). For an adult, expect CHF 280-500 per month depending on the canton. Choosing a higher franchise (e.g. CHF 2,500) lowers the monthly premium.
Do I need to register when I move to Switzerland?
Yes. You must register with your local residents' registration office within 14 days of moving in. Bring your passport, rental contract, and work/residence permit.
Can I use my foreign driving licence in Switzerland?
You can use your foreign driving licence for up to 12 months after establishing residence in Switzerland. After that, you must exchange it for a Swiss licence at your canton's traffic office.
Is household insurance mandatory in Switzerland?
Household contents insurance and personal liability insurance are not federally mandatory, but they are strongly recommended. Some cantons and landlords require them as part of the rental agreement.
This guide is maintained by Trustbook — the app that tracks your deadlines, compares insurance, and keeps all your Swiss documents in one place.