Relocation to Zug
A lakeside canton known for low taxes, global businesses, and Switzerland's Crypto Valley — Zug attracts entrepreneurs, professionals, and families alike.
Welcome to Zug — a small but powerful canton with global impact. Known as Switzerland's tax haven and home to Crypto Valley, Zug combines stunning lake views with international business opportunities. Here's everything you need to know about relocating to Zug.
Why Choose Zug
Zug offers a unique combination of tax advantages, global business opportunities, and Swiss quality of life — all in a compact lakeside setting.
Low Cantonal Taxes
Switzerland's lowest effective tax rates (15-22%), attracting global talent and businesses.
Crypto Valley & Fintech Hub
Home to 1,000+ blockchain companies, Ethereum Foundation, and cutting-edge fintech startups.
Global Corporate HQs
Headquarters for Glencore, Nord Stream, and major commodities, pharma, and tech companies.
International Schools & Expat Community
Strong international schools (ISZL), multilingual environment, and welcoming expat community (27%).
Beautiful Lakeside Living
Stunning views of Lake Zug and the Alps, compact city with nature at your doorstep.
Excellent Connectivity
Only 20 minutes to Zürich by train, 45 minutes to Zürich Airport — perfect central location.
Living in Zug
Life in Zug blends cosmopolitan business with relaxed lakeside living. Expand the sections below for details.
Quality of Life
Zug consistently ranks high for quality of life:
- Safety: One of Switzerland's safest cantons with low crime rates
- Healthcare: Modern hospitals (Zuger Kantonsspital), English-speaking doctors
- Nature: Lake Zug for swimming/sailing, Zugersee promenade, nearby Rigi mountain
- Compact: Everything within 15 minutes — walkable, bike-friendly
International Community
Zug is highly international for its size:
- 27% foreign nationals from 100+ countries
- English widely spoken in business, tech, and crypto sectors
- Expat networks: InterNations, business clubs, international schools community
- Multilingual: German (Swiss German), English, French prevalent
Neighborhoods for Expats
Popular neighborhoods in the canton of Zug:
- Zug City (Altstadt): Central, walkable, lakefront promenade, premium pricing. Rent: CHF 2,200-3,500/month (2BR)
- Baar: Family-friendly, international schools nearby, excellent connections. Rent: CHF 2,000-3,200/month (3BR)
- Cham: Residential, quieter, lake access, good value. Rent: CHF 1,800-2,800/month (3BR)
- Walchwil: Scenic lakeside living, village feel, stunning views. Rent: CHF 2,200-3,500/month (3BR)
Cost of Living in Zug
While Zug is premium, favorable taxes offset higher living costs for many expats. Here's what you can expect to spend monthly.
| Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 1BR apartment (city center) | CHF 1,800–2,800 |
| Public transport (monthly pass) | CHF 85 |
| Groceries (single person) | CHF 600 |
| Health insurance (mandatory) | CHF 320–480 |
Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland within 3 months of arrival. With 60+ insurers and varying prices, it can be overwhelming. Get expert advice to find the right coverage for your needs and budget.
Free consultation with insurance specialists
Relocation Essentials
Here's the roadmap for a smooth start in Zug. Follow these steps to ensure a seamless relocation.
Register with Local Authorities
Within 14 days of arrival, register at your local Einwohnerkontrolle (Zug city or commune). Bring: rental contract, passport, and work permit (if applicable).
Open a Swiss Bank Account
Choose between neobanks (Yapeal, Neon) for speed or traditional banks (Zuger Kantonalbank, UBS) for full services. Most salaries require a Swiss IBAN.
Get Health Insurance (Mandatory)
You must have health insurance within 3 months. Choose from 60+ providers (CHF 320-480/month). Get advice from Expat-Savvy.ch.
Apply for Residence/Work Permit
Your employer typically handles B permits (5 years). EU/EFTA citizens: L permit (< 1 year). Non-EU: requires job offer and quota availability.
Settle Schooling, Housing, Utilities
Enroll children in international schools (ISZL), set up utilities (electricity, internet), and connect with local expat networks.
Working in Zug
Zug is known as the 'business-friendly canton' — here's why it attracts global talent and companies.
Key Sectors
- Commodities Trading — Glencore, Nord Stream, energy companies
- Finance & Wealth Management — Private banking, asset management
- Tech & Blockchain — Crypto Valley (1,000+ companies), Ethereum Foundation
- Life Sciences & Pharma — Research, biotech startups
Working Environment
- Average salaries: CHF 90,000–160,000+ gross annual
- Language: English dominant in business; German useful for networking
- Work culture: International, innovative, startup-friendly
- Tax advantage: Keep more of what you earn (15-22% effective rate)
Family Life in Zug
Despite its business reputation, Zug is a great place to raise a family. Safe, compact, and family-friendly.
International Schools
International School of Zug and Luzern (ISZL), Institut Montana, bilingual programs, excellent university prep.
Safe & Compact
One of Switzerland's safest cantons. Walkable city, strong community feel, family-friendly infrastructure.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Lake Zug for sailing and swimming, Rigi mountain for hiking, skiing 45 minutes away, excellent air quality.
Specialized Zug Services
Need expert help with your Zug relocation? Explore services tailored for this region.
Housing in Zug
Find apartments in Zug City, Baar, Cham. Competitive market, premium lakeside locations, family-friendly neighborhoods.
Immigration in Zug
Work permits, residence permits, registration. Zug's Migrationsamt processes B/L/C permits for expats and entrepreneurs.
Finance in Zug
Banking, crypto custody, tax planning. Zug's Crypto Valley offers blockchain-friendly banks and low cantonal taxes (15-22%).
Advisory in Zug
HNWI & entrepreneur advisory. Company formation, private banking, lump-sum taxation, Crypto Valley setup, lifestyle services.
Trusted Relocation Providers
ReloFinder connects you to relocation agencies with local expertise in Zug. Compare their services and get free consultations.
Prime Relocation
HQ in Zug. Full-service relocation specialists for expats and businesses. Tax advisory, housing, immigration, family settling-in.
- ✓ Zug market expert (HQ here)
- ✓ Crypto Valley specialist
- ✓ English, German, French support
Auris Relocation
Corporate mobility and immigration specialists. 25+ years experience, multilingual support, Zug regional presence.
- ✓ Corporate relocation
- ✓ Immigration expertise
- ✓ 25+ years experience
Lifestylemanagers
Premium concierge and relocation services for HNWI and families. Personalized support, luxury focus, Zug expertise.
- ✓ Premium concierge services
- ✓ HNWI & family focus
- ✓ Personalized approach
Resources & Guides
Essential reading to help you prepare for Zug. Expert insights, tax tips, and relocation guides.
Tax Advantages of Zug (2025)
How Zug's 15-22% effective tax rates attract global talent. Comparison with other cantons and planning tips.
Crypto ValleyCrypto Valley Relocation Guide
Complete guide to relocating to Zug's Crypto Valley. Blockchain-friendly banks, company formation, ecosystem insights.
Budget PlanningCost of Living in Zug
Detailed breakdown of monthly expenses in Zug: housing, transport, insurance, groceries, and lifestyle costs.
HousingZug Housing Market Overview
Neighborhoods, rental prices, tips for expats. Where to find apartments in Zug City, Baar, Cham, and Walchwil.
Corporate Relocation to Zug
HR and global mobility teams choose Zug for its tax advantages and business-friendly environment. With ReloFinder, request up to 5 competitive quotes from vetted providers — 100% anonymous, transparent, and risk-free. Save up to 40% on corporate relocation costs.
Learn More About Corporate Services →Ready to Start Your Zug Relocation?
From lakeside living to tax optimization, Zug offers unique advantages for expats and businesses. Let's make your move smooth and successful.