Switzerland
What do I need to know before retiring in Switzerland?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Switzerland, they said...
"1. It is important to research both Swiss federal law and local canton laws as these will impact your financial and lifestyle decisions as a retiree in Switzerland. 2. Consider taking language courses or hiring a translator to ensure you can effectively communicate with Swiss authorities and banks. 3. Research banking options to find the best plan for you, including checking cantonal banking services and account providers. 4. Make sure to have comprehensive health insurance in order to receive public health care benefits. 5. Look into tax treatment of your pension income and any other sources when determining how much of your pension income is taxable. 6. Check if residence permits are necessary for yourself or your family members when looking to live in Switzerland for over three months. 7. Examine cost of living before retiring in Switzerland, taking into account accommodation, groceries, transportation and other miscellaneous expenses. 8. Understand the social and cultural norms in Switzerland to ensure a smooth integration process into Swiss society," said a member in Switzerland.
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"Put a good dent in learning German before you get here. People are much more easier to deal with if you can speak to them in German," remarked another expat who made the move to Basel, Switzerland.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Switzerland?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Switzerland?
- Will I be able to find a job in Switzerland?
- What is life like in Switzerland?
- What do expats in Switzerland appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Switzerland?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Switzerland accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Switzerland like?
- What are healthcare services like in Switzerland?
- What are medical services in Switzerland like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Switzerland?
- What are emergency services like in Switzerland?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Switzerland?
- How are local medical facilities in Switzerland?
- As a foreigner living in Switzerland, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before retiring in Switzerland?
If you live in Switzerland, newcomers to Switzerland would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
