Expat Guide to Switzerland

Embracing Swiss Culture and Traditions

Swiss culture is diverse because of regional affiliations that stem from its proud cantons. Much is determined by location, so those who live near Germany and speak German adopt many of those values, while the same goes for residents who live closer to France or Italy. However, the Swiss are, on the whole, fairly formal and family forms a core part of society. Often, family outings will include spending time in nature or active hobbies like cycling, skiing or hiking.

Languages Spoken in Switzerland: A Guide for Expats

Switzerland has four major languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. Expats will find more French in the west, more Italian in the south and German in the north, east and central regions. The dwindling Romansh language is spoken in the south east. Most Swiss speak English, especially in the big cities.[4]

[4] https:/www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/switzerland-guide

Mastering Swiss Social Etiquette and Customs

Adjusting to a new country, new language and new faces can be daunting. So hopefully these hints and tips will make easing into Swiss life that much easier.[5]

• When developing a solid friendship or relationship, it’s common for people of both sexes to “air kiss” both cheeks.
  
  
• Addressing people by their titles isn’t overly necessary, but it’s still considered polite. While this may seem obvious, expats must remember to change their greeting according to the region. Thus, in predominately German-speaking regions, one should use herr or frau and in French-speaking regions, monsieur or madam is acceptable. In the Italian-speaking areas in the south, signore and signora are the preferred terms.
  
  
• If invited to the home of a Swiss friend or colleague, a gift is expected. This can be anything from chocolate to flowers, or even something relating to the expat’s home country. After attending, a handwritten thank you note is good etiquette.

Good timekeeping in Switzerland is imperative, with lateness inexcusable and considered extremely rude. This is mainly due to the fact that, because such high-functioning and efficient public transport systems are available, missing scheduled times is difficult to do.

[5] https:/www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/switzerland-guide

Savoring Swiss Cuisine: From Cheese to Chocolates

Swiss cuisine is a glorious mixture of German, French and Italian influences. However, it’s often rich. Cheese may be the most iconic ingredient, dominating many meals, whether it’s simple and hearty countryside bakes to classics reinvented with modern gourmet flair.

Potato röstis are fried potato cakes originating as a breakfast for Bernese farmers. However, they’re now found all over the country, with an especially delicious version involving bacon, fried eggs and melted cheese found in the canton of Valais.

The country has become world-famous for its delicious and unique confectionaries, honed and perfected by generations of skilled chocolatiers. Indeed, Switzerland’s Daniel Peter and Rudolphe Lindt were pioneers in the field of milk chocolate.

Raclette is made by melting the eponymous cheese over an open fire and eating this cheese with breads and potatoes. Perhaps the most famous gastronomic export would be cheese fondue. While perhaps a little cliché, it nonetheless remains a tasty indulgence.

For those with a sweet tooth, the bündnernusstorte is a pastry, usually filled with cream, walnuts and caramelized sugar. Markets filled with fresh and seasonal produce are ubiquitous and most Western expats will have no problem adjusting their diets.[6]

[6] https:/www.myswitzerland.com/en/typical-food.html

Swiss Drinking Culture: Toasting and Tasting

In terms of the general attitude towards drinking, Switzerland takes a very European approach. Drinking in public isn’t illegal or considered taboo, so expats shouldn’t be surprised to see beer, wine or other spirits enjoyed outside the usual cafes, bars and restaurants.

Toasting in Switzerland isn’t too dissimilar to countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States. When gathered in a group, one should wait until everyone has a drink, make eye contact and clink glasses with each person, each time exclaiming “prost!” No eye contact means bad luck.

Swiss wine may not have the reputation of its French or Italian neighbors, but it’s equally excellent. While white wine is dominant, rosés and reds are also produced. And the Swiss do love their wine, existing as one of the world’s top wine consuming countries. Having said that, the German part of the country is, perhaps predictably, extremely fond of its beer.

Swiss Holidays: Celebrations and Observances

Holidays in Switzerland are primarily based either on the Christian religious character or days of national significance. There are some holidays which are regional, specifically amongst its 26 cantons. Employers may allow time off for seasonal celebrations, such as equinoxes and solstices, even though they aren’t official.[7]

New Year’s Day – 1 January
St Berchtold’s Day – 2 January
Good Friday – March or April
Easter Monday – March or April
Labor Day – 1 May
Ascension Day – 10 May
Whit Sunday – May or June
Whit Monday – May or June
National Day – 1 August
Christmas Day – 25 December
St Stephen’s Day – 26 December

[7] https:/publicholidays.ch/

Telecommunications in Switzerland

The telecommunications sector of Switzerland is what one would expect from a dominant and thriving Western economy. Its internet speeds are fast while both its landline and mobile sectors are well established.

Telephone

Switzerland boasts one of the most developed telecommunications networks in Europe, offering excellent coverage for both landline and mobile services. Swisscom is the leading provider, but there are also many regional operators.

Internet

Internet services are widely available, with a reported 8.63 million internet users in the country as of January 2023, indicating a penetration rate of 98.4 percent of the total population.5 Internet speeds are also right up there with the world’s best, with Switzerland consistently being ranked highly.[8]

[8] https:/www.speedtest.net/global-index/switzerland

Postal Services

The postal service is called Swiss Post, offering both private and business solutions. Private couriers include FedEx, DPD, UPS and DHL.

Navigating the Swiss Job Market as an Expat

The job market

The job market for foreign nationals in Switzerland is tough, primarily because the country operates on a quota system. This means that expats will only get a position if it can be proven that a local cannot adequately fulfil it. Consequently, foreigners working in Switzerland tend to have to be highly skilled and extremely well qualified. Popular industries of expat employment in Switzerland include financial services, information technology, and biotechnology.[9]

[9] http:/www.expatarrivals.com/switzerland/visas-for-switzerland

Decoding the Swiss Income Tax System

Income tax is made up of three levels of taxation: federal, cantonal and municipal. Federal taxes, ones paid directly to government, are structured to ensure the same tax return, meaning Switzerland employs a progressive tax scale. Rates can vary from 1 to 11%. Different cantons and municipalities are allowed to set their own rates, with some setting flat rates.

If an expat stays in Switzerland for 90 days or more during a 12-month period, they are classified as a resident for tax purposes. Residents for tax purposes are taxed both on their local and international income. Income tax will be deducted directly from salaries by employers.[10]

[10] https:/taxsummaries.pwc.com/switzerland/individual/taxes-on-personal-income

Planning for Retirement in Switzerland

While taxes are low, the cost of living in Switzerland remains high. This makes it an attractive retirement destination for only the very wealthy. Its agreeable climate and beautiful landscapes are difficult to resist, with Alpine resorts and warm southern towns allowing for safe and diverse getaways.

Most foreigners end up retiring in Switzerland having gone through the process of acquiring a residency permit and subsequently a permanent residence permit. Expats over the age of 55 can become retirees if they’ve got the requisite financial resources, close connections to the country and aren’t seeking employment.[11]

[11] https:/www.swissinfo.ch/eng/retiring-in-switzerland/29178422

Business Etiquette in Switzerland: Tips for Professionals

There’s nothing drastically different in the Swiss business environment compared to most of Europe. Swiss businesspeople are very much focused on completing the job at hand with as little fuss and small talk as possible. Meetings are brisk and to the point, with presentations being detailed and well-prepared.

Punctuality is extremely important, with lateness deemed to be very rude. Explanations are expected if one is running behind schedule. Handshakes and polite smiles are acceptable when it comes to greetings. In terms of authority, Swiss business culture operates on a strictly hierarchical structure.

English should be sufficient when it comes to the workplace, but it’s suggested that expats learn the basics of their canton’s dominant language. In general, the attitude of the Swiss is fairly conservative and formal, and consequently one should be careful about approaching others with personal questions until establishing a genuine rapport.[12]

[12] https:/www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/switzerland-guide

Transport Insights for Expats

Traveling in Switzerland

Switzerland’s public transportation is extremely fast and reliable, boasting one of the best systems in Europe. Train and bus routes crisscross the country, operating on metronomic schedules that take passengers from city to city or through the beautiful countryside. While both function at high standards, the railway is far more comprehensive in its destinations. Taxis are also available for getting around town but are quite expensive.

Due to the excellence of public transport, driving is an unnecessary luxury. But it’s still a treat, as the roads are both safe and picturesque. Mountain passes provide panoramas of deep valleys and snowcapped summits, as one travels en route to Switzerland’s classically European small towns, resorts and cities. Note that the Swiss drive on the right and expats will need a Swiss driving license after 12 months.[13]

[13] http:/www.expatarrivals.com/switzerland/transport-and-driving-in-switzerland

Managing Finances in Switzerland

Currency

The official currency is the Swiss franc (CHF), which is divided into 100 rappen.

Money is available in the following denominations:

• Notes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 1000 CHF
• Coins: 5, 10 and 20 Rp., 1, 2 and 5 CHF

Cost of Living

Switzerland is extremely expensive to live in, with four of its cities (Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Bern) placing in the top 10 of Mercer’s 2023 Cost of Living Survey. But it translates well for residents as the costs are offset by rewarding Swiss salaries, highly efficient but pricey public transport and an excellent standard of free public education.

Cost of accommodation can be heavy on the wallet, with an apartment shortage ensuring rental rates keep going through the roof. Expats should also be aware that health insurance is compulsory, and that premiums depend on locality rather than income. As expected, living outside the big cities and towns sees prices and expenses drop.

The biggest chains in Switzerland are the grocery stores Coop and Migros. Lidl and Aldi are ideal for those consumers who don’t want to overspend, while premium shoppers will enjoy high-end franchises like Manor Food and Globus Delicatessa.[14]

[14] https:/www.expatica.com/ch/living/household/swiss-supermarkets-191778/

Banking

Switzerland is known for its banking sector, playing a key role in the national economy. The country is home to major banks such as UBS and Credit Suisse, which have a significant local and international presence and offer a wide range of services. Opening a bank account in Switzerland can be straightforward, with some banks allowing you to start the process online and provide the required documentation in person once you arrive in the country.[15]

[15] http:/www.expatarrivals.com/switzerland/banking-money-and-taxes-in-switzerland