Your First 30 Days in Switzerland: Complete Practical Settling-In Guide for New Expats
Welcome to Switzerland! Your first month in Switzerland will be a whirlwind of new experiences, essential administrative tasks, and exciting discoveries. As a new expat in Switzerland, you might feel a mix of thrill and perhaps a little overwhelm. Fear not!
This practical guide is designed to help you navigate those initial 30 days, making your process of settling in Switzerland as smooth and stress-free as possible. From critical administrative tasks to cultural integration tips, we’ve got you covered.
Before You Land: Quick Pre-Arrival Checklist
Hopefully, before your arrival, you’ve already handled these essentials:
Legal Documentation:
- Secured your visa (if required) with work/residence permit confirmations
- Organized all important documents (passport, contracts, certificates)
Accommodation:
- Booked temporary housing in Switzerland for initial arrival
- Confirmed arrival instructions and key collection procedures
Initial Setup:
- Researched basic Swiss cultural norms and expectations
- Downloaded essential apps (SBB Mobile, Google Translate)
Now, let’s dive into your strategic first 30 days on Swiss soil!
Week 1: Laying the Groundwork – Essentials First! (Days 1-7)
This week is all about getting legal, connected, and oriented. These tasks form the foundation of your Swiss life.
Arrival & Immediate Needs (Days 1-3)
Navigate to Your Accommodation
- Public Transport: Switzerland’s system is exceptional - trains, buses, and trams are punctual and efficient
- From Airport: Major airports (Zurich, Geneva, Basel) have direct train connections to city centers
- Download SBB Mobile App: Essential for tickets, timetables, and real-time updates
Get Connected Immediately
- Local SIM Card/Phone Plan: Available at airports, train stations, or mobile provider shops
- Major Providers: Swisscom (best coverage), Salt, Sunrise
- Pre-paid Options: Perfect for immediate connectivity while you establish residency
Essential Shopping
- Basic Groceries: Stock up on essentials for your first few days
- Sunday Closures: Most shops close on Sundays - plan accordingly!
- Major Chains: Migros and Coop (premium), Aldi and Lidl (budget-friendly)
Neighborhood Exploration
- Locate Key Services: Nearest supermarket, pharmacy, ATM, public transport stops
- Emergency Services: Note locations of nearest hospital and police station
- Local Customs: Observe quiet hours and general neighborhood etiquette
Critical Legal Registration (Days 1-14)
Address Registration (Anmeldung) - TOP PRIORITY
Deadline: You have 14 days maximum from arrival to register!
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Where to Go | Local commune (Gemeinde/Commune/Comune) or Kreisbüro |
| When | Business hours, appointment may be required |
| Language | German/French/Italian (bring translator if needed) |
Required Documents:
- Passport with entry stamp
- Rental contract (even temporary housing counts)
- Residence permit/visa documents or application proof
- Proof of employment (contract or letter)
Pro Tip: This registration is legally mandatory and required for everything else - bank accounts, residence permits, taxes, and more!
Open a Swiss Bank Account (Days 3-7)
Why It’s Essential
- Salary payments from Swiss employers
- Rent and utility payments (often by direct debit)
- Daily financial transactions in Swiss economy
Required Documentation
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Identity verification | Original required |
| Residence Permit | Legal status proof | Or proof of application |
| Address Registration | Proof of residence | Anmeldung confirmation |
| Employment Contract | Income verification | Recent letter acceptable |
Major Swiss Banks:
- UBS & Credit Suisse: International banks with English service
- PostFinance: Accessible, good for everyday banking
- Cantonal Banks: Regional options often with competitive rates
Expert Tip: Start with a basic account package. You can always upgrade later as your needs become clearer.
Health Insurance Research (Start Immediately!)
Mandatory Requirement
- Legal Obligation: Health insurance is compulsory for everyone living in Switzerland
- Timeline: Must be arranged within 3 months of arrival (coverage is retroactive)
- Complexity: System involves basic (KVG/LaMal) and supplementary (VVG/LCA) options
Understanding Your Options
| Insurance Type | Coverage | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic (KVG/LaMal) | Mandatory minimum coverage | CHF 200-600+/month |
| Supplementary (VVG/LCA) | Additional services | CHF 50-300+/month |
| Accident Insurance | Through employer (if working 8+ hours/week) | Usually included |
Getting Expert Help:
- Independent Brokers: Can compare options and explain complexity
- Expat-Focused Services: Specialized guidance for international residents
- Online Platforms: Compare basic plans and pricing
Pro Tip: Don’t delay this decision. The retroactive coverage means you’re still liable for the full premium even if you register late.
Master Public Transport (Days 3-7)
Getting Started
- SBB Mobile App: Download for tickets, timetables, real-time updates
- Initial Tickets: Use app or station machines (multiple languages available)
Smart Pass Options
| Pass Type | Best For | Cost Range | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Local Pass | Daily commuting | CHF 70-150 | Unlimited local travel |
| Half-Fare Card (Halbtax) | Regular intercity travel | CHF 185/year | 50% off all tickets |
| General Abonnement (GA) | Frequent travelers | CHF 3,860/year | Unlimited nationwide |
System Coverage:
- Trains (SBB/CFF/FFS): Intercity and regional connections
- Urban Transport: Trams, buses, metros in cities
- Lake Transport: Boats and ferries included in many passes
- Integration: Single ticket system across all transport modes
Week 2: Building Your Foundation & Understanding Local Life (Days 8-14)
With urgent administration underway, focus on establishing your Swiss lifestyle and building deeper connections.
Residence Permit Processing
Follow-Up Actions
- Appointment Scheduling: You may receive appointment for biometrics (photo, fingerprints)
- Document Verification: Ensure all submitted documents are complete
- Processing Timeline: Varies by canton, typically 2-8 weeks
Stay Proactive: Contact cantonal migration office if you haven’t heard back within expected timeframes.
Long-Term Housing Hunt (If Needed)
If you’re in temporary accommodation, now’s the time for serious house hunting.
Strategic Approach
Online Platforms:
- Homegate.ch: Switzerland’s largest property portal
- ImmoScout24.ch: Comprehensive listings with detailed filters
- Comparis.ch: Price comparisons and market insights
Networking Strategies:
- Workplace connections and colleague recommendations
- Expat community groups and housing tips
- Local Facebook groups for housing opportunities
Professional Assistance
When to Consider Expert Help:
- Competitive markets (Zurich, Geneva, Basel)
- Time constraints from work demands
- Language barriers in application processes
- Complex requirements for international profiles
Professional Services:
- Prime Relocation: Swiss housing specialists
- ReloFinder.ch: Compare relocation service providers
- Local real estate agents: Regional market expertise
Utilities & Home Infrastructure (For Long-Term Rentals)
Essential Services Setup
| Service | Provider Type | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Local utility company | 1-2 weeks | Often regional monopoly |
| Internet/TV | Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt | 2-3 weeks | Technician installation usually required |
| Water/Heating | Building management | Immediate | Usually included in rent |
Mastering Local Shopping & Services
Supermarket Landscape
Premium Options:
- Migros: Swiss cooperative, good quality, loyalty program
- Coop: Wide selection, organic options, frequent promotions
Budget-Friendly:
- Aldi: German discount chain, limited selection
- Lidl: Good value, changing weekly offers
Smart Shopping Tips:
- Loyalty Cards: Cumulus (Migros), Supercard (Coop) offer discounts
- Shopping Hours: Most close 18:30-19:00 weekdays, 17:00 Saturdays
- Sunday Closures: Plan weekend shopping accordingly
Healthcare Services
- Pharmacies (Apotheke/Pharmacie): First point for minor health issues
- Emergency Services: 144 (ambulance), 117 (police), 118 (fire)
- Walk-in Clinics: Available in larger cities for non-emergency care
Language Learning Foundation
Getting Started
Digital Resources:
- Duolingo/Memrise: Free daily practice
- SwissGerman Apps: Specialized for Swiss German dialects
- YouTube Channels: Visual learning with pronunciation
Formal Learning:
- Migros Club Schools: Affordable community courses
- University Programs: Intensive courses with certificates
- Private Tutoring: Personalized learning pace
Practical Application:
- Daily Greetings: Start with “Grüezi” (German-speaking areas)
- Shopping Phrases: Basic interactions in stores
- Transport Vocabulary: Essential for navigation
Week 3: Integration & Cultural Exploration (Days 15-21)
Time to branch out, build connections, and start feeling truly at home in Switzerland.
Work & School Integration
Professional Adaptation
- Workplace Culture: Observe punctuality, meeting styles, hierarchy
- Networking: Attend company social events and team activities
- Swiss Business Etiquette: Direct communication style, consensus-building
Children’s School Integration (If Applicable)
- School Systems: Public, private, international options
- Language Support: Available for non-native speakers
- Extracurricular Activities: Sports clubs, music groups
Become a Local Explorer
Neighborhood Discovery
- Historical Centers: Explore old towns and cultural sites
- Local Markets: Weekly farmers markets for fresh produce
- Green Spaces: Parks, hiking trails, lake access points
- Cultural Venues: Museums, theaters, concert halls
Swiss Nature Access
- Day Trips: Nearby mountains, lakes, and villages
- Hiking Trails: Well-marked paths for all skill levels
- Public Transport: Direct access to natural attractions
Weekend Tip: Switzerland’s excellent public transport makes day trips incredibly accessible - even without a car!
Building Your Social Network
Expat Communities
Online Platforms:
- InterNations: Professional networking events
- Glocals.com: Activity-based meetups
- Facebook Groups: City-specific expat communities
- Meetup.com: Interest-based gatherings
Local Integration:
- Sports Clubs (Vereine): Swiss club culture is very strong
- Hobby Groups: Photography, hiking, language exchange
- Volunteer Organizations: Give back while meeting people
Language Exchange Opportunities
- Tandem Partners: Practice with native speakers
- International Cafés: Regular conversation meetups
- University Programs: Often open to community members
Swiss Cultural Immersion
Essential Swiss Etiquette
| Situation | Swiss Way | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Punctuality | Arrive exactly on time | Being late is considered disrespectful |
| Greetings | Firm handshakes, eye contact | Greet shopkeepers when entering stores |
| Quiet Hours | 22:00-06:00 weekdays, all day Sunday | Noise restrictions are strictly enforced |
| Recycling | Complex sorting system | Learn local rules - fines for mistakes |
Apartment Living:
- Building Etiquette: Greet neighbors, follow house rules
- Laundry Schedules: Often assigned days/times in buildings
- Noise Levels: Especially sensitive about evening and weekend noise
Driving Considerations
License Exchange Process
- Timeline: 12 months to exchange foreign license
- Requirements: Vary by country of origin
- Process: Application through cantonal motor vehicle office
Car Ownership in Switzerland:
- High Costs: Purchase prices, insurance, annual taxes
- Parking: Limited and expensive in cities
- Public Transport Alternative: Often more convenient and cost-effective
Week 4: Financial Consolidation & Future Planning (Days 22-30)
Assess your progress, refine your setup, and plan for long-term success.
Swiss Budget Reality Check
Cost of Living Assessment
Housing (Typically 25-40% of income):
- Rent: CHF 1,200-3,500+ depending on location and size
- Utilities: CHF 150-300/month additional
- Deposits: 2-3 months’ rent upfront
Daily Living Expenses:
| Category | Budget Range | Money-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | CHF 400-800/month | Shop at Aldi/Lidl, use loyalty cards |
| Dining Out | CHF 25-50/meal | Lunch menus, happy hour specials |
| Transport | CHF 70-400/month | Choose appropriate pass type |
| Health Insurance | CHF 200-600/month | Compare basic plans carefully |
Budgeting Tools:
- Swiss Banking Apps: Built-in expense tracking
- YNAB/Mint: International budgeting platforms
- Local Apps: MoneyMoney, Toshl for Swiss specifics
Housing Transition Management
Lease Signing Process (If You Found Long-Term Housing)
- Contract Review: Understand terms, deposits, notice periods
- **Swiss Rental Contracts Guide: Know your rights and obligations
- Move-in Protocol: Document apartment condition thoroughly
Moving Logistics
- Temporary to Permanent: Coordinate move-out and move-in dates
- Cleaning Requirements: Swiss standards are extremely high
- Utility Transfers: Coordinate service changes between addresses
Continuous Learning & Development
Language Progress Assessment
- Set Monthly Goals: Measurable conversation or comprehension targets
- Formal Assessment: Consider certification exams (Goethe, DELF)
- Practice Opportunities: Increase real-world language use
Swiss Discovery Planning
- Seasonal Activities: Skiing, hiking, festivals throughout the year
- Travel Planning: Explore Swiss regions and neighboring countries
- Cultural Calendar: Traditional events and celebrations
Expat Well-being & Mental Health
Managing Transition Stress
- Normal Adjustment: Culture shock and homesickness are natural
- Support Networks: Maintain home connections while building new ones
- Professional Help: Counseling services available if needed
Celebrating Progress:
- Monthly Milestones: Acknowledge what you’ve accomplished
- Small Victories: Opening bank account, first local friendship
- Patience with Process: Integration takes time - be kind to yourself
When to Seek Help:
- Persistent overwhelm with administrative tasks
- Isolation or depression lasting more than a few weeks
- Professional challenges requiring specialized support
Professional Resources:
- ReloFinder.ch: Comprehensive relocation service directory
- Expat counselors: Specialized in transition challenges
- Integration programs: Canton-specific support services
Your Complete 30-Day Swiss Settling-In Checklist
Week 1: Foundation (Days 1-7)
- Arrive safely and navigate to accommodation
- Get local SIM card and establish communication
- Essential shopping (groceries, basic supplies)
- Register address (Anmeldung) within 14 days - PRIORITY!
- Open Swiss bank account with required documents
- Start health insurance research and application process
- Get public transport pass and download SBB app
- Explore immediate neighborhood and locate essential services
Week 2: Building (Days 8-14)
- Follow up on residence permit processing
- Begin long-term housing search (if needed)
- Arrange utilities for permanent accommodation
- Master local shopping and get loyalty cards
- Start language learning program or app
- Locate local healthcare services and pharmacy
- Establish local services (internet, utilities)
Week 3: Integration (Days 15-21)
- Adapt to work/school environment and culture
- Join expat/local groups and start networking
- Explore city and region more extensively
- Learn Swiss etiquette and cultural norms
- Research driving license exchange process
- Set integration goals for coming months
- Plan weekend activities and local exploration
Week 4: Consolidation (Days 22-30)
- Review and adjust budget based on real expenses
- Finalize long-term housing arrangements (if applicable)
- Assess monthly progress and celebrate achievements
- Evaluate language learning progress and adjust plan
- Set 3-month goals for continued integration
- Strengthen social connections and plan regular activities
- Plan ongoing learning about Swiss culture and systems
Conclusion: Your Swiss Journey Continues
Your first month in Switzerland as a new expat represents just the beginning of an incredible journey. By tackling essential administrative tasks systematically, actively exploring your new environment, and proactively building connections, you’ve established a strong foundation for a rewarding Swiss life.
Key Success Factors:
- Systematic approach to administrative requirements
- Proactive networking and community engagement
- Continuous learning about culture and language
- Patience with yourself during the adjustment process
- Setting realistic goals for integration milestones
The Journey Ahead:
Remember that settling in Switzerland is a marathon, not a sprint. The administrative foundations you’ve built in your first 30 days will support a lifetime of Swiss experiences. Continue exploring, learning, and connecting - your Swiss adventure has only just begun!
Professional Support Available:
Resources like ReloFinder.ch remain available to help you connect with specialized services as your needs evolve. Whether it’s finding long-term housing with Prime Relocation or other integration services, professional support can make your transition smoother and more successful.
Welcome to Switzerland - embrace every moment of this incredible new chapter in your life!
Frequently Asked Questions: First Month in Switzerland
Q1: What’s the absolute first priority upon arrival in Switzerland?
A: Address registration (Anmeldung) is legally the most critical task. You have 14 days maximum from arrival to register with your local commune. This registration is required for everything else - bank accounts, residence permits, health insurance, and taxes. Don’t delay this!
Q2: How quickly can I get internet installed in my apartment?
A: Plan for 2-3 weeks from ordering to installation. Providers (Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt) typically require technician visits for new connections. Order as soon as you sign your lease, and ensure your temporary housing has Wi-Fi to bridge the gap.
Q3: Is it really necessary to learn German/French/Italian if I work in English?
A: While you can survive with English in major cities, learning the local language dramatically improves your integration experience. Even basic phrases help with:
- Daily shopping and services
- Building relationships with neighbors
- Understanding official documents
- Feeling more connected to Swiss culture
Start with basic greetings and gradually expand your vocabulary.
Q4: What are the biggest mistakes new expats make in their first month?
A: Common mistakes include:
- Delaying Anmeldung beyond the 14-day deadline
- Underestimating health insurance urgency (you have 3 months, but coverage is retroactive)
- Not planning for Sunday closures - most shops and services are closed
- Ignoring quiet hours and Swiss etiquette norms
- Failing to start language learning early
Q5: How can I meet other expats and locals in my first month?
A: Multiple effective strategies:
- Online communities: InterNations, Glocals, Facebook expat groups
- Meetup groups: Activity-based gatherings (hiking, language exchange)
- Sports clubs (Vereine): Swiss club culture is excellent for meeting locals
- Workplace connections: Attend company social events
- Language classes: Natural environment for meeting people
Be proactive - Swiss people may seem reserved initially but are generally very welcoming once connections are made.
Q6: I’m feeling overwhelmed in my first month - is this normal?
A: Absolutely normal! Moving to Switzerland involves:
- Complex administrative procedures
- New cultural norms and expectations
- Potentially challenging language barriers
- High cost of living adjustments
- Building entirely new social networks
Coping strategies:
- Take tasks one at a time - don’t try to do everything simultaneously
- Celebrate small victories - opening a bank account is an achievement!
- Connect with other expats who understand the challenges
- Be patient with yourself - integration takes months, not weeks
- Seek professional help if overwhelm persists beyond a few weeks
Q7: When should I consider hiring professional relocation help?
A: Consider professional assistance if:
- You’re relocating to competitive housing markets (Zurich, Geneva, Basel)
- Time constraints from immediate work demands
- Complex family situations (children, pets, elderly parents)
- Language barriers significantly impede progress
- Company support covers relocation services
Services like Prime Relocation can handle housing, administrative tasks, and cultural orientation, allowing you to focus on work and family adjustment.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general advice for settling in Switzerland. Always verify specific cantonal and communal requirements, as procedures and deadlines can vary by location. When in doubt, consult local authorities or professional relocation services.
