With the UK leaving the EU but Switzerland not actually being a member of the EU. How does this affect you moving to Switzerland and the process of Removals to Switzerland after Brexit. The Advance moves relocations team have put together a quick guide to help you through it all.

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UK-Swiss agreement

Well the UK government has been busy and there is already a UK-Swiss Citizens rights agreement that protects the rights of UK nationals resident in Switzerland by the end of the transition period that is currently on the 31 December 2020. During this time, nothing will change for UK nationals who can continue to live, work and undertake Removals to Switzerland after Brexit.

The agreement protects UK Citizens rights to live and work, including frontier workers, and access to healthcare. It also protects social security benefits, access to an uprated state pension and export benefits, as well as the continued recognition of professional qualifications.

Guide to Moving to Switzerland from the UK After Brexit

Introduction

Moving to Switzerland from the UK has become more complex since Brexit. This guide will help you understand the steps involved, the necessary paperwork, and how to plan your move, including considerations for removals to Switzerland after Brexit.

1. Visa and Residency Requirements

Visa Types

Post-Brexit, UK citizens need a visa to stay in Switzerland for more than 90 days. Here are the common visa types:

Work Visa: Required if you have a job offer in Switzerland.
Student Visa: For those attending a Swiss educational institution.
Family Reunification Visa: If you have family members legally residing in Switzerland.

Applying for a Visa

Secure a Job: If applying for a work visa, ensure you have a confirmed job offer.
Gather Documents: You’ll need your passport, job offer, proof of qualifications, and sometimes a criminal record check.
Submit Application: Apply at the Swiss embassy or consulate in the UK.

2. Finding Accommodation

Temporary Accommodation

Start with temporary housing options such as serviced apartments or Airbnb while you search for a permanent home.

Long-term Accommodation

Rental Market: Search online portals like Homegate or ImmoScout24.
Documentation: Be ready with references, proof of income, and a copy of your visa.

3. Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland. Once you have your visa, you must arrange health insurance within three months.

4. Banking and Finances

Opening a Swiss Bank Account

Choose a Bank: Popular options include UBS, Credit Suisse, and PostFinance.
Required Documents: Passport, visa, proof of address, and sometimes proof of employment.

5. Removals to Switzerland After Brexit

Choosing a Removals Company

Research and select a reputable company experienced in international moves. Companies specializing in removals to Switzerland after Brexit will understand the customs regulations and logistical challenges.

Customs Regulations

Inventory List: Create a detailed inventory of all items being moved.
Import Duties: Personal belongings can often be imported duty-free if you’ve owned them for more than six months.
Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary paperwork, including proof of residency in Switzerland and receipts for valuable items.

Moving Day

Packing: Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly.
Insurance: Consider additional insurance for valuable items.
Coordination: Work closely with your removals company to ensure a smooth transition.

6. Registering with Local Authorities

Within 14 days of arrival, you must register at the local Residents’ Registration Office (Einwohnerkontrolle or Contrôle des habitants).

Required Documents

Passport
Visa
Rental agreement or proof of address
Employment contract or proof of financial means

7. Learning the Language

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Depending on where you move, learning the local language will help with integration.

8. Cultural Adaptation

Social Etiquette

Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued.
Politeness: Politeness and formalities are important in Swiss culture.

Networking

Join expatriate groups and local clubs to build a social network and integrate into the community.

Conclusion

Moving to Switzerland from the UK after Brexit involves careful planning and organization. By following this guide, you can ensure a smoother transition. Remember, working with professionals for removals to Switzerland after Brexit can alleviate much of the stress associated with international relocations.

By addressing visa requirements, securing accommodation, understanding health insurance, opening a bank account, and organizing your removals to Switzerland after Brexit, you’ll be well-prepared for your new life in Switzerland.

Your removals to Switzerland after Brexit

If your removal to Switzerland is before the end of the transition period then you must obtain Swiss residency to be able to stay. If you move to Switzerland, you must register at your local office of resident services (Einwohnerdienste or Centre du contrôle des habitants) within 14 days of arriving.

More details on that can be found at the guidance link by the Swiss government on notification of departure and registration.

Residency in Switzerland

If you stay and are employed for more than 3 months, then you will need to apply for a residence permit from your local cantonal authority (Einwohnerdienste or Centre du contrôle des habitants).

You should reapply for a new permit before your existing one expires, as usual. This applies whether you hold a short or long stay permit, or even a frontier worker permit.

There are no restrictions for those coming to Switzerland to work for less than four months.

International permits (cartes de légitimation)

International permits (cartes de légitimation) will not be affected by the UK leaving the EU. Special provisions will continue to apply to international permit holders wishing to retire and remain in Switzerland.

UK nationals with an international permit are not in the scope of the UK-Swiss Citizens’ Rights Agreement.

Passports and travel for moving to Switzerland

The rules on travel will stay the same until the end of the transition period that currently ends on 31 December 2020. During this time you can continue to travel to Switzerland with your UK passport.

Your passport must be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

Swiss Visas and Moving to Switzerland after Brexit

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don’t need a visa to enter Switzerland. If you’re planning to stay longer than 3 months, then check out the UK government Living in Switzerland guide and contact the Swiss Embassy if you have any further questions.

The rules on travel will stay the same until the end of the transition period on the 31 December 2020.

Driving in Switzerland

If you are resident in Switzerland you have 12 months to swap your UK licence for a Swiss one. You can do this at your local cantonal authority. Your UK licence will be accepted in Switzerland for up to 12 months. This will not be affected by the UK leaving the EU.

When driving in Switzerland, you should always have your:

driving licence
car papers
insurance paper
MOT/Control technique certificate
passport or ID and those of your
passengers

Healthcare in Switzerland

The UK-Swiss Citizens’ Rights Agreement will continue to protect the rights of UK nationals resident in Switzerland by 31 December 2020, for as long as they remain in scope. Your access to healthcare in Switzerland will not change, as long as you are covered by the agreement.

You must take out compulsory insurance with a Swiss health insurance company no later than 3 months after arriving or beginning to work in Switzerland. You can look at the Swiss government’s website for information on:

Money and tax in Switzerland

The UK has a double taxation agreement with Switzerland to ensure people do not pay tax on the same income in both countries. Ask the relevant tax authority your questions about double taxation relief.

Existing double taxation arrangements for UK nationals living in Switzerland have not changed.

more info on the Swiss government’s tax system can be found here. information on paying tax.

More information on Removals to Switzerland after Brexit

The advance moves team have an information page on Removals to Switzerland after Brexit that covers all aspects of moving and living in Switzerland.

Removals to Switzerland after Brexit

You can also obtain an instant online quotation for your removal to Switzerland in just 30 seconds by entering minimal information about your removal into the Advance Moves Quick quote system. Give it a try and budget and plan for your removal to Switzerland.

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