A move in Switzerland is very manageable once you know the deadlines and obligations. This checklist takes you from giving notice on the old flat to registering in your new municipality.
Terminate the old lease within the deadline and in the required form – usually by registered letter and on the official termination dates. For a jointly rented flat, everyone named in the contract normally has to sign. If you want to leave earlier, you can often propose a suitable replacement tenant.
In Switzerland, when you change address you register with the new municipality’s residents’ office within the legal deadline (often 14 days) and deregister at the old one. Bring your ID, residence permit (if applicable), lease and – depending on the canton – proof of health insurance. This registration is mandatory.
Notify all important parties in good time and set up a mail-forwarding order with the post:
A handover protocol is drawn up for both the old and the new flat. Document existing defects in writing and with photos. The old flat usually has to be cleaned and returned in the agreed condition – many people hire a cleaning company that offers a handover guarantee. Your deposit is only released once the handover is completed without objections.
Waste and recycling rules differ from one municipality to the next – from chargeable rubbish bags to fixed collection dates for bulky items. Look up your new municipality’s rules early so moving day is not derailed by full containers.
Before you pack a single box, it is worth a look at the new area. On the 3DFlats 3D map you can see routes to transit, shops and school and get a feel for the neighbourhood – especially helpful when you are moving to another city or region.
This guide offers general orientation. Rules, deadlines, fees and taxes differ by canton and municipality and change over time. Before making binding decisions, check the official sources for your canton and, where needed, consult professionals (fiduciary, bank, notary, tenants’ association).
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Open the 3D map