Thinking about starting a new chapter in Switzerland? With its stunning landscapes, world-class infrastructure, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder many Canadians are making the move. This 2025 guide walks you through everything you need to know about moving to Switzerland from Canada — from permits and taxes to housing, banking, and healthcare.
Moving to Switzerland from Canada: Visa and Immigration Requirements 🛂
Do Canadians need a visa for Switzerland?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for short stays — you can enter Switzerland visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. For longer stays, such as for work, study, or family reasons, you’ll need a residence permit.
Residence Permit Types for Canadians
- L Permit: Short-term (less than 12 months)
- B Permit: Renewable residence permit (usually annual)
- C Permit: Permanent residence (granted after 10 years in most cases)
🇨🇭 Note: In 2025, Switzerland’s non-EU quota includes Canadians. There are 4,500 B permits and 4,000 L permits, issued quarterly by canton.
👉 Tip: Cantons like Zurich and Geneva often exhaust quotas first. Apply early in Q1 for better success.
👉 Swiss Migration Portal – Application Info
Shipping and Customs: Bringing Your Life Across 🌍📦
Household Goods & Customs Rules
You can import personal belongings duty-free if you’ve owned them for 6+ months and plan to use them in Switzerland.
💡 Example: Importing goods worth CHF 200/day triggers 8.1% VAT on the full CHF 200, not just the CHF 50 over the duty-free CHF 150 threshold.
- Vehicle VAT: 8.1% on market value
- Auto Tax: 4% on passenger vehicles
- Duty-Free Limit: CHF 150/day (since Jan 1, 2025)
Relocating with Pets 🐶
- Microchipped with ISO 11784/85 chip
- Rabies vaccination (≥21 days old)
- Veterinary certificate issued ≤10 days before travel
- Limit: 5 animals without commercial license
Where Canadians Settle: Best Cities in Switzerland 🏙️
Popular Expat-Friendly Cities
- Zurich: Economic powerhouse, vibrant city life
- Geneva: UN & NGOs, multicultural hub
- Lausanne: Family-friendly with top schools
- Lugano: Italian-speaking and scenic
- Zug: Tax-friendly, expat-heavy
Renting an Apartment
- Deposit: Usually 3 months’ rent
- Documents: Proof of income, passport, references
- Platforms: Homegate, ImmoScout24
Health Insurance and Medical System ❤️
Mandatory for All Residents
- Registration: Must enroll within 3 months of arrival
- Coverage: Backdated to date of entry
- Premiums: CHF 350–460/month (adult)
- Deductibles: CHF 300 adults / CHF 0 children
- Coinsurance: 10% after deductible, capped at CHF 700/year
👉 Compare Providers – priminfo.ch
Taxes and Banking for Canadians in Switzerland 💸
Do Canadian citizens pay tax in both countries?
Canada and Switzerland have a tax treaty to avoid double taxation. You’ll pay Swiss taxes locally (usually source-based), and may need to report foreign income to the CRA depending on your residency status.
Opening a Swiss Bank Account
While FATCA regulations mostly target US citizens, Canadian expats should still provide proof of residence, employment, and a valid passport. Some financial institutions may ask for extra documentation.
Estimated Moving Costs from Canada to Switzerland 💰
| Expense | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| International shipping | $1,500 – $15,000+ |
| Initial rent + deposit | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| Health insurance | $350 – $460/month |
| Temporary housing | $150 – $300/day |
| Legal/admin fees | $1,000 – $2,000 |
📋 Pre-Move Checklist for Canadians
✅ Valid passport (6+ months) ✅ Apply early for residence permit ✅ Book movers and plan customs forms ✅ Enroll in health insurance within 3 months ✅ Notify CRA of move abroad ✅ Prepare Anmeldung documents (rental contract, passport, permit)
👉 Step-by-step Anmeldung Guide
Essential Links for Canadian Expats 🔗
- SEM – Swiss Migration Office
- Swiss Customs Authority
- Canadian Embassy in Bern
- Health Insurance Portal
🎯 Final Thoughts: Moving from Canada to Switzerland in 2025
Moving to Switzerland from Canada is a big step — but a highly rewarding one. With up-to-date knowledge of permits, banking, taxes, and healthcare, you’ll be ready for a smooth transition.
Apply early, plan your budget, and don’t forget to compare cantonal taxes before picking your new Swiss home!
📚 Planning to move from a different country?
Check our other country-specific guides:
🇬🇧 UK to Switzerland
🇺🇸 US to Switzerland
Or return to the main overview:
👉 Moving to Switzerland – Complete 2025 Guide