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Moving to Switzerland checklist (2026): every step, with its deadline

Moving to Switzerland means a series of formalities with legal deadlines that start when you arrive. Here is the full checklist for EU/EFTA nationals, in order, with official fees and sources. Your exact list depends on your canton, contract and family: CheckSwiss works it out for free.

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Before you move

To prepare

  • Your signed employment contract: its type and length decide your permit (L, B or a simple notification). See Residence permits (L, B, C, G).
  • A valid ID for every person in the household.
  • Your home: the rental deposit is capped at 3 months’ rent. See Rent deposit.
  • Your belongings: form 18.44 for customs; your car comes in duty-free if you have used it yourself for at least six months before moving.

🔒 In your list: the exact permit for your contract, and the documents for each step. See my list · free profile →

In the first days

As soon as you arrive

  • Register with the municipality: 14 days in 25 cantons, but 8 days in the canton of Vaud. See Registration deadline.
  • Apply for your permit, usually at the same time: at most CHF 65 per adult and CHF 30 per child for an L, B or G permit (some cantons add postage).
  • Open a bank account for your salary and rent. See Bank account without a B permit.

🔒 In your list: your exact deadline, your municipality’s office and your canton’s fees. See my list · free profile →

Within 3 months

Health insurance

🔒 In your list: the exact deadline for each household member, and the documents to provide. See my list · free profile →

Within 12 months

Driving licence and car

🔒 In your list: your deadlines, your canton’s vehicle office and its fees. See my list · free profile →

Every year after that

Recurring deadlines

🔒 With the subscription: a reminder before every deadline, your calendar and your monthly budget. See my list · free profile →

Check the formalities and deadlines that apply to you

CheckSwiss keeps only the formalities that apply to you, based on your canton, job, family and vehicle, and works out your deadlines.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the first formality when arriving in Switzerland?

Registering with your municipality, within 14 days in most cantons; some cantons have a shorter deadline.

How much does a residence permit cost?

For EU/EFTA nationals, at most CHF 65 per adult and CHF 30 per child for an L, B or G permit, at each issue and renewal.

What is the health insurance deadline?

3 months from taking up residence in Switzerland.

Is there a personalised checklist?

Yes: on CheckSwiss the profile is free, and the list takes your canton, contract and family into account.

Sources

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