Life in Switzerland after the COVID-19 crisis
Although the COVID crisis might seem like a distant memory in Switzerland and beyond, it has still left a significant impact on various aspects of life. Here's what you should know about the changes in health, employment, education, lifestyle, and more.
What are the current conditions and formalities for entering Switzerland?
According to the Federal Office of Public Health, there are currently no special restrictions for entering Switzerland. You don't need to show proof of vaccination, recovery, or testing.
In the event of another health emergency, the Ordinance on Measures to Combat the COVID-19 Pandemic will provide a list of countries and regions that may pose a risk. Should that happen, health measures may be reintroduced at border crossings for travelers coming from those areas.
For a regular update on the subject, please also refer to the official website dedicated to the subject.
Have there been any changes concerning visas for Switzerland?
Visa applications for Switzerland are now being processed normally again. If you're looking to move to Switzerland for work, study, or retirement, you can submit your application to the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.
For all the necessary details about visas, visit the website of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). There are two types of visas: one for stays of up to 90 days (under Schengen rules) and another for stays longer than 90 days (under Swiss rules).
How hard has it been to find a job in Switzerland since the COVID crisis?
According to official data, Switzerland's unemployment rate is currently at a low point, the lowest it's been in 20 years. In its latest press release from January 2024, the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs reported that the unemployment rate among those registered with regional employment offices (ORP) stands at 2.5%.
If you're looking for a job, your first port of call is the official Swiss job search platform "Job Room", on the travail.swiss portal.
Sectors particularly in demand in Switzerland are the following:
Finance and banking
Positions in finance, accounting, auditing, and related services are often highly sought-after.
Science and pharmaceuticals
Switzerland is known for its leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, which provide numerous opportunities in research, development, and production.
Information and communication technologies
There is a strong demand for ICT jobs, especially in cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne. Switzerland is well-known for its strengths in advanced engineering and precision manufacturing, providing opportunities in areas such as aerospace, automotive, microtechnology, and robotics.
Tourism and hospitality
Because of its renowned setting, tourism remains a sector offering many jobs in the hotel, restaurant, and leisure industries.
Healthcare
The healthcare sector in Switzerland is continually growing, leading to an increasing need for professionals such as doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and mental health specialists.
What about health recommendations and the Swiss healthcare system?
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is still advised for those who are vulnerable, although no prescriptions are available at the moment. Be sure to check the official website for the latest information.
One of the ongoing impacts of the COVID era is the rise in remote consultations. Increasing numbers of doctors are now using telemedicine applications. While it initially aimed to assist patients in isolated or underserved areas, the focus has shifted to offering medical services remotely, even for more complex health issues.
The scope of telemedicine today extends from prevention to follow-up, diagnosis, and decision support.
What has changed for schools and universities in Switzerland?
The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted our perspective on education delivery, resulting in a greater embrace of digital technologies. Although primary and secondary school classes continue to be conducted in person, private tutoring and vocational training, especially in language schools, are increasingly relying on online teaching methods compared to before.
According to the latest Swiss Education Report, the health crisis has also opened up major opportunities for the digitization of educational resources.
What is the current state of the Swiss real estate market?
Official statistics indicate that the Swiss residential property price index (IMPI) increased by 1.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the previous quarter. When compared to the same quarter last year, this marks a rise of 1.2%.
In 2023, the average annual price growth for owner-occupied homes in Switzerland was 2.2%. You can learn more about the survey here.
The Swiss rental market is quite strained in certain areas, driven by a combination of high demand for urban housing, population growth, and strict construction regulations.
In major cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, the demand for housing usually outstrips the supply, resulting in generally high rents. To address this issue, some cities, including Zurich and Geneva, have implemented specific regulations to curb rent increases and protect tenants from unfair practices by some landlords.
What is the cost of living like in Switzerland?
Switzerland continues to be among the most expensive countries in the world, as reported by Numbeo and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
The Swiss Federal Statistical Office has reported that consumer prices increased by 0.6% in February 2024 compared to January. Year over year, prices have risen by an estimated 1.2% since the same month last year.
According to the official website of the Federal Statistical Office, two of the reasons for this rise are higher housing rents and higher air fares.
What about the Swiss lifestyle? What has changed since the start of the pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic has had several lasting repercussions on lifestyles, including:
Remote work
Many companies have embraced remote working more regularly, leading to lasting changes in how people work and commute.
Digitization
The rapid adoption of digital technologies and online services is changing how we interact socially, access services, and learn.
Changing consumer habits
Online shopping is more popular than ever, and consumers are increasingly favoring local and sustainable products.
Health awareness
The pandemic has underscored the significance of public health, leading to greater focus on disease prevention, hygiene, and overall wellness.
Impact on tourism
While international travel is back to normal, many people still prefer to visit local or regional destinations.
