YOUR FIRST WEEK

Genevas water jet
1. LEARN THE BASICS
Train riding towards the Cervin

What you need to know if you don't know anything about the country!

 

 

2. Register at the local authorities where you live

If you have decided to live in Switzerland, you must imperatively “announce” yourself at the local authorities called “Office Cantonal de la Population et de la Migration” and inform them of your place of residence within 8 days of your arrival in Switzerland. This organization is responsible for keeping the registry of the population in the district up to date. You can find their opening times, the documents and the fees that you need to bring on the website of the district where you live.

3. Open a Swiss Bank account
Logo of main banks in the swiss french area

You need to bring us your swiss bank account details BEFORE the 15th of the month in order to receive your salary. Here are some examples of banks:

Make an appointment at the bank of your choice and bring the following documents:
  • Passport
  • Residence permit
  • Confirmation of permit: If you want to open an account before having received your work permit, some banks might ask you for a proof of residence which you can get at the local authorities 
  • Employment contract*

*please be advised that the main agencies of UBS for example (in Geneva and Lausanne) allow to open the bank account without the permit issued or permanent adress – don’t hestitate to approach them for more information

Reminder to-do list
  • Announce arrival to Communal town hall
  • Open internet line
  • Electricity subscription (get informations)
  • Change addresses (banks, subscriptions, car)
  • Change fiscal residency (for tax purpose)
  • Change car's license plate (within 1 year)
  • Change driving license (might need an additional exam depending on origin country)
  • Get health swiss insurance
  • Get insurance for the apartment + Civil liability
  • Ask SQ’s HR for work B permit or equivalent
  • Get fire insurance or ECA (mandatory)
Congrats!
People signing documents

You’ve made it!
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