Essential local services for newcomers to Switzerland

From registration to cell phone contracts - your compact guide to a stress-free start in Switzerland

Reading Time:    5 Min.
Publication:        October 8, 2025, Jessy Thür

Moving to a new country is always a challenge, especially to a country as well-organized but also bureaucratic as Switzerland. Between dealing with the authorities, looking for an apartment, and organizing your daily life, it's easy to lose track of things. To help you settle into your new life in Switzerland during your first 20 days, here is a handy overview of the most important local services you will definitely need - and why.

1. Register with the residents' registration office (within the first 14 days!)

The first and most important step: register with the residents' registration office in your municipality. Without registering, you cannot take out health insurance, open a bank account, or obtain a residence permit. The deadline is 14 days from the date of entry - in some cantons, it is even only 8 days.

What you need:

• Passport or identity card
• Rental agreement or proof of residence
• Employment contract (if available)
• Passport photo
• Marriage certificate, birth certificates (for families), if applicable
• Registration must be done in person at the relevant municipal or city office. Online appointments are often possible in larger cities.

You can find the addresses of the various residents' registration offices at yellowpages.swiss.

2. Health insurance – take out a policy within 3 months

In Switzerland, basic insurance (KVG) is compulsory for everyone – including newcomers. You have 3 months to take out health insurance, but the sooner the better – otherwise you will have to pay retroactively from your date of entry.

Also consider supplementary insurance for things like dental treatment, glasses, or alternative medicine.

3. Open a bank account

Without a Swiss bank account, not much is possible. Your employer will usually only pay your salary into a local account. You will also need it for rent payments, insurance premiums, taxes, and online purchases.

Popular banks for newcomers:

• UBS (extensive customer service, branch network)
• Raiffeisen (local cooperative bank)
• Neon or Yapeal (digital solutions, no basic fee)

Opening an account is usually straightforward—often all you need is your ID and proof of residence.

4. Cell phone contract or SIM card

You need fast access to mobile data and phone service—as well for dealing with government agencies. Swiss providers offer excellent network coverage, but rates and conditions vary greatly.

Overview of providers:

• Swisscom (best network quality, but expensive)
• Sunrise (attractive combination offers)
• Salt (inexpensive, good value for money)
• Discounters such as yallo, M-Budget, or Digitec Connect (flexible and inexpensive)

Tip: Many providers have special offers for newcomers, students, or young people.

5. Public transport pass or Half-Fare Card

Public transport in Switzerland is reliable, clean, and punctual—but not exactly cheap. If you commute regularly or plan to go on trips, a Half-Fare Card is almost a must. It costs around CHF 185 per year and offers a 50% discount on almost all train, bus, and boat journeys.

Other options:

• Monthly pass for local transport networks (for example, for ZVV)
• SBB app for tickets, timetables, and saver tickets
• Swiss Travel Pass for non-residents

6. Home contents and liability insurance

Although these types of insurance are not required by law, they are highly recommended—and a prerequisite in many rental agreements.

• Liability insurance: Covers damage you cause to others (e.g., broken windows or water damage).
• Household contents insurance: Protects your property in the event of fire, theft, or water damage

Combined packages are often cheaper. Providers: AXA, Mobiliar, Helvetia.

7. Waste disposal and recycling – good to know!

Switzerland does not have a standardized waste disposal system – each municipality regulates waste and recycling itself. In most cases, you will need to purchase garbage bags (e.g., “Züri-Sack,” “Gebührensack”) from supermarkets.

Recycling requirements:

• PET bottles (return to supermarkets)
• Glass (collection points nearby)
• Paper and cardboard (on fixed collection days)
• Electrical appliances, batteries, aluminum cans (special collection points)

Check your municipality's website for more information – incorrect disposal can be expensive.

8. Local contact points for integration

Integration is actively promoted in Switzerland. Many municipalities offer free or subsidized services to help newcomers get started.

Possible services:

• Language courses (often in German, French, or Italian)
• Advice centers for migration and work
• Parent-child meetings and family services
• Integration courses (e.g., on everyday culture, laws)

You can find such offers at yellowpages.swiss as well.

Useful organizations:

• Caritas
• Swiss Red Cross (SRK)
• AOZ (especially in Zurich)
• Migros Club School
• Local associations

Conclusion

The first 20 days in Switzerland are crucial for settling in well – and it pays to be well prepared. If you take care of the most important services such as registration, insurance, banking, and communication early on, you can approach your new start in a relaxed and structured manner. Take the time to get to know your new surroundings – Switzerland offers a high quality of life, safety, and efficiency if you embrace local customs.

Tip: Save a personal checklist with dates and deadlines so you don't forget anything. This will help you start your new life in Switzerland in a structured and stress-free way.

All information provided without guarantee.

«www.yellowpages.swiss»