Living in Switzerland: the ultimate expat guide

Located in Western Europe, Switzerland is a top destination for expatriates. It is bordered by France, Italy, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein and spans an area of 41,285 km². The Swiss Confederation is made up of 26 cantons and 2,148 municipalities. The capital city is Bern, and the largest cities are Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, and Bern.

Swiss population

Demographics

According to the latest data from the State Secretariat for Migration, Switzerland's population is expected to reach about 8.9 million in 2024, including 2.3 million foreign residents with L, B, and C permits.

The largest groups among this 25% foreign population come from Italy, Germany, Portugal, France, and Kosovo.

These diverse migration patterns have significantly influenced Swiss culture.

According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, the average life expectancy for men is 81.6 years and for women is 85.4 years.

Religion

In Switzerland, 32.9% of the population identifies as Catholic, while 21.2% are Reformed Evangelicals. The proportion of Reformed Evangelicals has declined significantly in recent years, with 32.2% of people now reporting no religious affiliation.

Muslim communities make up 5.7% of the population, and the remaining 8% belong to other religions or have not specified their religion.

Swiss languages and culture

Languages

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, German is the most widely spoken language, used by 62% of the population across many cantons. French is primarily spoken in the west of the country by 23% of people. Italian, mainly used in the south, is spoken by 8% of the population, while Romansh is spoken by just 0.5% in certain valleys of Graubünden.

Multilingualism is common in Switzerland: 22% of Swiss people speak two or more languages at home, and 39% of employees use multiple languages at work.

In addition to national languages, English, Portuguese, and Albanian are the most frequently spoken non-native languages.

At school, students start learning a second national language and English from the primary level, so they are exposed to three languages during their elementary education.

Culture

Swiss culture combines regional traditions with international influences. Known for its stunning landscapes, including majestic mountains, clear lakes, and picturesque Alpine villages, Switzerland's natural beauty has inspired artists and writers. This scenic backdrop also contributes to cultural traditions like folk festivals, traditional dances, and outdoor events throughout the year.

Swiss cuisine is a key part of the country's culture. Renowned for its cheeses, such as Gruyère and Emmental, and traditional dishes like cheese fondue and raclette, Swiss food provides a true culinary experience. Swiss chocolates are also famous globally for their quality.

In terms of contemporary arts and culture, Switzerland is a hub of innovation and creativity. The country hosts music festivals like the Montreux Jazz Festival and features contemporary art galleries and lively cultural centers in cities such as Zurich and Basel, offering a rich and diverse cultural scene.

The Swiss economy

Despite its limited natural resources and relatively small size, Switzerland has built one of the world's strongest economies. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in 2024, it ranked as the 22nd richest country globally.

Renowned for its financial stability, continuous innovation, and dedication to quality, Switzerland is often cited as a model of a robust and diversified economy.

Skilled workforce and high productivity

Switzerland boasts a highly skilled workforce and a work culture centered on quality and precision. Swiss employees are known for their technical expertise, reliability, and dedication to excellence. This skilled labor force significantly contributes to Switzerland's high productivity and helps maintain its competitiveness in the global market.

Dynamic business sectors

Switzerland's economy is diverse, with major sectors including finance and banking, technology, pharmaceuticals, and precision industries like watchmaking, tourism, trade, and agriculture. Small and medium-sized enterprises in Switzerland (SMEs) thrive in the supportive economic environment, while the energy and transport sectors also play a key role in the country's economic stability.

Switzerland is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Higher education, research and innovation in Switzerland

Switzerland is a hub of innovation and research, with significant investments in life sciences, information and communication technologies, and renewable energy. The country's strong higher education system contributes to its economic success.

Swiss universities, including ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich, consistently rank among the top in the world across various academic fields. Other prestigious institutions are located in Geneva, Lausanne, Basel, and Bern.

These institutions provide a blend of academic excellence, modern infrastructure, and advanced research facilities, fostering a thriving environment for learning and innovation.

Switzerland is also home to prestigious research institutes like CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research), which draw scientists and researchers from around the globe for their groundbreaking collaborative projects.

Politics in Switzerland

Political organization

Switzerland has been a federation since 1848 and is made up of 26 cantons, which are like federated states, and these are further divided into communes. Political power is shared among the federal government, the cantons, and the communes, with the cantons giving up some of their sovereignty to the federal government.

The federal government operates democratically, allowing people to have control over their elected representatives. This is known as a semi-direct democracy, where referendums and popular initiatives give individuals a significant role in shaping the country's present and future.

The Federal Assembly, the Federal Council, and the Federal Courts handle legislative, executive, and judicial powers. The Federal Assembly consists of the National Council and the Council of States. The Federal Council consists of seven Federal Councilors and is supported by the Federal Administration.

The main political parties in Switzerland

Switzerland has a variety of political parties. The ones currently represented in the Federal Council and Parliament are: the Swiss People's Party, the Swiss Socialist Party, the Liberal-Radical Party, the Centre Party, the Green Party, the Swiss Evangelical Party, the Federal Democratic Union, the Swiss Labor Party, and Ensemble à Gauche.

While some Swiss political parties do not have a national presence, they are active at the cantonal or regional level.

Climate in Switzerland

Switzerland has a temperate climate influenced by oceanic, continental, and mountainous factors. It experiences frequent precipitation, with snow in the winter.

The four seasons show distinct temperature variations. July is the hottest month, with temperatures often exceeding 30 °C, while January is the coldest, with temperatures dropping below 0 °C.

Cost of living in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for being one of the most expensive countries in the world, with prices often higher than in most other European countries.

According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, the cost of living increased by 2.1% in 2023 compared to the previous year.

The most important expenditure items in Switzerland

Accommodation is a major expense in Switzerland, whether you're renting or buying.

Food costs are also high, especially for imported products.

Healthcare is expensive but is known for its high quality.

Getting around Switzerland is also costly. However, the public transportation system is highly developed, offering excellent mobility both in cities and across the country.

Switzerland's most expensive cities

The three cities consistently ranked as the most expensive in Switzerland are Geneva, Zurich, and Basel.

In contrast, smaller towns and rural areas have a lower cost of living.

Healthcare in Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its high-performance, high-quality healthcare system.

Quality infrastructure and qualified personnel

Switzerland has modern infrastructure, highly skilled healthcare professionals, and a comprehensive range of medical services, from primary care to specialized treatments.

Swiss hospitals and clinics are known for their excellence and advanced equipment, drawing patients from around the world for specialized care. The country is also distinguished by its dedication to medical research and innovation, with several prestigious research institutes and international collaborations in healthcare.

Health insurance

Switzerland's healthcare system is built on mandatory health insurance, ensuring equal access to medical care.

There are about 50 licensed health insurance providers, and you can find a list on the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) website. You should select an insurer that operates in your canton.

Supplementary insurance in Switzerland covers additional needs, such as semi-private or private hospital care, and extra services like naturopathy, osteopathy, and dental treatment.

Visas to enter Switzerland

Nationals from European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states do not need a visa to enter Switzerland.

Generally, third-country nationals do require a visa.

The State Secretariat for Migration provides information on the documents needed to enter Switzerland based on nationality.

If you have a visa from a Schengen country, you typically do not need a separate visa to enter Switzerland or travel to other Schengen countries. However, your stay must not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.