For years, Switzerland has topped the polls for the ‘best place in the world for expats to live’. It comes as a result of many financial; technology and pharmacology sectors choosing to send their highly skilled employees here for relocation. The country’s stable economy; low crime rates and high standards of living are just some of the reasons why Switzerland is so popular with expats.
When it comes to your own overseas move to Switzerland; it is vital to understand the important cultural values and customs that you will be introduced to. Otherwise, you and your family may struggle to adapt to the brand-new culture and surroundings.
As an international moving company, Galleon provides a range of corporate relocation services to ensure both the employer and the employee are prepared for moving overseas. For the employee moving abroad, we have an array of international relocation experts who can provide useful cultural information and who can act as a point of contact in their new home.
Take a look at the local knowledge our overseas agents and partners in Switzerland provided us:
1. Housing
It may not be known to expats at the time of moving, but Switzerland is a landlord’s market. For example, in the main cities such as Zurich and Geneva, the demand for housing often outweighs the supply. There could be at least 60 applications per flat when you are searching for residential properties.
2. Visas and Work Permits
If you are currently a citizen of an EU country, moving to Switzerland is not like moving within the union. Following the latest immigration changes in 2016, there have been further restrictions put on migration from the EU. For example, the Swiss electorate took part in a referendum vote to re-introduce quotas for foreigners and privilege over Swiss nationals over foreigners in the labour market.
For those outside of the EU, it is important to start the process months in advance since it can take a while for your application to be approved by the Ministry of Labour.
3. Language
When moving to Switzerland from Europe or North America, you may not expect as much as a culture shock. However, there are more differences in Swiss culture that expats will not realise until they are there. For example, for the French-speakers the language will be the same but the culture is different. Unlike in France, people in Switzerland favour punctuality; they go to work early and head home early.
The extent to which you are affected by the culture shock depends on how much you choose to stay in your ‘expat bubble’.
Do you still have some questions about moving to Switzerland? Why not get in touch with the team at Galleon International – international removal company. Get in touch with us on 01708 868 068.
