Leaving Switzerland? Info and tips

1. Leaving Switzerland: deregistering your address

You can deregister from your municipality in Switzerland shortly before you leave. You will also receive confirmation of this. 

You then need to take care of any relevant administrative tasks in your new place of residence, such as registering as a resident or registering to vote.

2. Look into unemployment benefits

After leaving Switzerland, you should look into getting unemployment benefits in your new place of residence if you do not yet have a job. Report immediately to the responsible local employment office if you plan to look for work upon arrival. 

Check the requirements for receiving unemployment benefits in good time, and make sure you have the relevant paperwork in order.

3. Check your health insurance situation

When you leave Switzerland, you also lose your health insurance cover. If you need health insurance in your new place of residence, make sure you organize this before you return. Your situation may be different depending on whether you are self-employed, you work as an employee, or if you will need to register for unemployment benefits when you leave Switzerland 

If you move to a country where no health insurance is required, such as the UK, you should look into how to register with a GP. You may also need to take other steps to access healthcare after you move.

4. Make sure your pension is in order

When you leave Switzerland, it’s a good idea to look into your pension situation in your new place of residence. Your situation may be different depending on whether you work as an employee, or you are self-employed. You should also make sure you close any pension accounts you have in Switzerland, such as a pillar 3a fund.

5. Think about your living situation in good time

The housing market is competitive in many places. Take the opportunity to look for a new apartment early on, so that you have a place to stay after you leave Switzerland. 

6. Cancel insurances and subscriptions in Switzerland

Once you leave Switzerland, you will no longer need your mobile phone subscription or any insurance that is specific to Switzerland. If possible, try to cancel them in good time, so you don’t continue paying for them longer than necessary. 

7. Register your car

If you bring your car or motorcycle with you to your new place of residence, you will need to register it. You may be able to arrange appointments online in advance. 

Check the rules about car insurance in your new place of residence. Insurance may be necessary to register your vehicle.

8. Make sure you’re financially prepared

Leaving Switzerland and setting up in your new place of residence involves various costs.

You may need temporary accommodation before you can move into your new home, for example. You may also need to equip a new apartment. You should set aside money for this several months before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises.