After entering Switzerland
Health Insurance
Register with a Swiss health insurance company no later than 3 months after entering Switzerland. Premium differences for the mandatory basic insurance are significant, although the services are legally required and therefore the same with all providers.
You can find a premium comparison along with all the necessary information for your desired region here: www.comparis.ch/krankenkassen
Registration with the Authorities
Anyone staying in Switzerland for more than three months and/or planning to work must register with the local municipality within 14 days of arrival. Registration must be completed before starting work. The following documents are required:
- Valid official ID for each family member entering
- Passport photo for each family member entering
- Documents related to marital status (family book, marriage certificate, birth certificates)
- Employment or assignment contract
- Proof of mandatory basic insurance (can be submitted up to 3 months after arrival)
- Copy of the current Swiss rental agreement
Car Insurance
To register your car in Switzerland, you will need proof of insurance from a Swiss provider. Compare premiums at www.comparis.ch/auto
Family Reunification
EU/EFTA citizens who have acquired the right of residence in Switzerland are allowed to reunite with direct family members who depend on them financially. The following documents are required:
- Completed application for residence permit for family members (available from the responsible municipal office)
- Marriage certificate or family booklet
- Children's birth certificates
- Copy of valid passport or identity card for each family member joining
- Copy of rental agreement
- Confirmation of employment for the applicant
- Two passport photos for each family member joining
Household and Liability Insurance
Take out household and liability insurance. Premium comparisons can be found at www.comparis.ch/hausrat-versicherung
Legal Protection Insurance
Legal disputes can be expensive. With legal protection insurance, you can protect yourself. Compare premiums at www.comparis.ch/rechtsschutz
Phone and Internet
Compare provider prices for phone and internet at www.comparis.ch/telekommunikation
Radio and TV
There is a fee for radio and TV. Register with the Swiss
Collection Office for Radio and TV Reception Fees at www.serafe.ch
Bank Account and Credit Card
Compare providers online at www.comparis.ch/sparzinsen. Open the account in person and bring the following documents:
Residence permit / valid ID (if the residence permit is not yet available, the residence certificate will suffice). If available, also bring the employment contract.