How to move to Switzerland from Canada

Thinking about moving from Canada to Switzerland for the mountains, the snow, or maybe even skiing? While Canada offers similar experiences, Switzerland’s scenery and lifestyle will bring something unique. Regardless, you'll need to do some careful planning. We've put this guide together to walk you through the steps, from obtaining the necessary visas and permits to cultural differences to look out for. Additionally, we'll explore how Wise can help you manage your finances throughout the process, including holding your CHF and transferring it internationally at the mid-market exchange rate.

What Are the Administrative Essentials for Moving to Switzerland from Canada?

1. Getting the right residence permit or visa: Depending on the purpose of your move, there are differing sets of criteria for entering and staying in Switzerland. Here are several possible scenarios:

1. Consulting a Tax Professional: Before you move, you should speak with a tax professional to make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Since there is no one-size-fits-all answer, they’ll be able to address your specific situation around issues like filing your tax return, your new non-resident status, and whether you owe a departure tax.

Things to Take Care of in Canada before Moving to Switzerland

Before you embark on your big move, there are several things you’ll want to deal with in Canada first. Doing so will ensure a smooth transition. Notify your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and government agencies like the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Service Canada about your move.

• Transfer Your Funds: Before closing your Canadian bank accounts, transfer your funds to a Swiss account like Wise.
• Close your bank accounts: It might help to close your accounts in Canada, in case you pay monthly fees or have inactivity fees to pay.

• Forward Your Mail: Contact Canada Post to arrange mail forwarding services.
• Medical Records: Gather copies of your medical records, especially if you're undergoing treatment or have chronic conditions. This can help ensure you can immediately continue your treatments.
• Cancel Subscriptions and Memberships: Terminate any ongoing subscriptions or memberships to avoid unnecessary charges.
• Pet Relocation: Most pets can enter Switzerland without approval from the veterinary health authority or a health certificate.⁶ However, it’s a good idea to check with the Federal Veterinary Office (FVO) of Switzerland for specific requirements regarding vaccinations, health certificates, and potential quarantine periods. Both Air Canada and Swiss Air have size requirements for pets travelling in the cabin or as checked baggage.

Travel Expenses for Flying from Canada to Switzerland

Factors that might affect flight prices:

• The time and date of booking
• The date of travel
• Holiday seasons

Preparing for Your Stay in Switzerland Before Leaving Canada

Sometimes it’s okay to be spontaneous, but when making a move like this, you want to make sure you’re as prepared as you can be. With that in mind, here are some things to consider.

Estimation of monthly expenses

Culture shocks and new mannerisms to watch out for: In Switzerland, it is common to shake hands when you meet someone for the first time, but, kisses on the cheek or hugs and kisses are common greetings for both men and women.

Additionally, communication styles differ between the Swiss and Canadians. Canadians are often direct in their speech, while the Swiss are more subtle and indirect. And while Canadians are known to be polite, Swiss politeness can be more formal and reserved, especially in initial interactions.

The average cost of living in Canada is 30% less than it is in Switzerland.⁹

Make Your Money Go places with Wise.

Want to stretch your money farther? Bank with Wise! With Wise, it’s free to:

• Get an IBAN to manage your money in CHF and EUR with local account details.
• You can also open a local CAD account and manage all your currencies from a single account, before leaving for Switzerland.
• You’re not limited to CAD and CHF—you can hold more than 20 currencies with a single Wise account.
• Best of all, you can send money in more than 40 currencies—including CAD, AED, and USD—at the mid-market exchange rate with minimal transfer fees starting at 0.48%^*.

Transportation in Switzerland

There’s a lot to see and do in Switzerland, so let’s explore the best ways to get around. Switzerland is a lot smaller than Canada—you could drive across it nonstop in about 8 hours, while driving across Canada would take about 8 days. It's entirely possible to live in Switzerland without your vehicle.

• Public transport in Switzerland: Switzerland has an excellent public transportation system that connects its cities, towns, and in some cases, even remote villages.
• Your vehicle: If you do own a vehicle, it can be cheaper to drive than to take public transportation under certain circumstances.¹⁰
• Taking a taxi: Switzerland is said to be one of the most expensive countries in Europe, and their taxi fares fall in line with that. While it's always a good idea to take a taxi in some circumstances, keep in mind the cost. Fares are also said to be the most expensive in Europe.

Health Insurance Plans in Switzerland

All Swiss residents are required to have at least basic health insurance. This ensures that everyone has access to essential medical care, regardless of their income or health status. If you're planning to move there, you need to obtain health insurance within three months.¹¹

It’s not mandatory for employers to offer health insurance benefits, but it is common. If you do need to opt for a private plan, some of the most popular private health insurers in Switzerland are Swiss Life, Helsana, and Axa.

Final Thoughts on Relocating from Canada to Switzerland.

Moving to Switzerland from Canada can come with higher costs. However, with careful planning and a multi currency account such as Wise, you can make it work.

Sources:

1. Working in Switzerland as a Non-EU/EFTA national
2. Moving to Switzerland as an entrepreneur
3. C Settlement Permit
4. Retiring to Switzerland
5. Investing in Switzerland
6. Travelling with Pets
7. Flights
8. Cost of Living in Switzerland
9. Cost of Living: Canada vs Switzerland
10. Travelling in Switzerland
11. Health Insurance