Is Switzerland a good place to live? What do you think of it? Did you know Switzerland was officially known as the Swiss Confederation? Well, now you know!
It is one of the world’s wealthiest countries and is famous as a peaceful country.
Switzerland is a little Alpine country in the heart of Europe. It is famous for its beautiful green meadows, soaring snow-capped mountains, ice-melting glaciers, frozen lakes, skiing, Edelweiss, cheese, cows, clocks, chocolates, and money.
Switzerland, the world’s happiest country, is affluent, peaceful, and prosperous. In this article, we will mainly address the question – Is Switzerland an excellent place to live? Continue reading to learn why Switzerland is such a popular place to live and work.
1. Switzerland – A Sweet Destination
Switzerland has been a popular destination for wealthy ex-pats seeking an ex-pat life. The country is easily accessible from Europe and beyond, and it is a conservative and stable country that may appeal to individuals who value the finer things in life.
1.1. Languages used in Switzerland
When one thinks of settling in any country, one of the biggest concerns they have is the language barrier. Bern, Switzerland’s capital, and Zurich, its largest city, are in a spot of the country’s German-speaking northern part.
While the western portion of Switzerland is French-speaking, Swiss Italian is another language spoken in Lugano, which is located in the southern part of Switzerland. Although speaking the dialect is not required, taking courses can help you assimilate more readily with the people when you relocate.
2. Is Switzerland a Good Place to Live
Switzerland, nestled in the heart of Europe, is always heralded as a premier destination for individuals seeking a high quality of life.
Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, efficient public services, and robust economy, Switzerland has made itself a prime location for work and leisure.
With its robust healthcare system, exceptional educational opportunities, and a well-developed transportation network, the country gives its residents a comfortable and secure lifestyle.
In addition, its political stability, low crime rates, and emphasis on environmental preservation contribute to the country’s reputation as a safe and clean haven for family members and working professionals alike.
Switzerland is a beautiful choice for those pursuing a well-balanced and enriching living experience.
3. Advantages of Living in Switzerland
Let us know what the advantages one will benefit from once one moves to Switzerland:
3.1. Work Opportunities
If you want to advance in your career, Switzerland is a great place to go because earnings in similar work roles can double or even triple those in other European nations.
Genevans and Zurich residents have the world’s highest average salaries owing to their positions in finance, banking, and insurance. Many foreigners, particularly those with advanced degrees, find work in Switzerland.
You will find fabulous, ambitious companies in Switzerland to join the international workforce. Switzerland is indeed an attractive destination to work.
3.2. Education
Switzerland is famous for providing world-class education and has one of the best educational systems in the world.
Switzerland’s well-developed education system is separate, concentrating on multilingual education.
Private schools, public, international, and multilingual Swiss schools comprise the educational system. From kindergarten to university, Switzerland provides almost free education.
Switzerland is home to some of Europe’s best universities, including world-renowned HSG in St. Gallen and the top technological university, EPF Lausanne and ETH Zurich.
Within the diverse locations of Switzerland, they have 12 Swiss universities and 7 Higher Educational Institutions of Applied Sciences.
Several worldwide IT multinational companies and businesses are stable and fast-growing in Switzerland due to the high quality of education and research from world-renowned universities.
3.3. Great weather
Is Switzerland a good place to live? It is for all who are looking for great weather and an amazingly picturesque location.
The climate in Switzerland varies, with lower temperatures in the north and mountains covered in snow for up to six months followed by chilly summers, while the climate in the south of the Alps is mainly the Mediterranean.
Switzerland’s beauty has a lot to offer to its visitors; it is famous for its stunning mountains and tranquil lakes. Air conditioners are barely used in Switzerland.
Summers are typically the Mediterranean, with temperatures reaching 30°C in July and August, with the coldest months being January and February.
3.4. Safety
Safety is one of the most crucial factors when choosing a country to live and work in. Switzerland is a peaceful and serene country, ranked one of the safest places to live and work in Europe.
Switzerland has the world’s best social security system and the lowest crime rate. In Switzerland, the number to contact in an emergency is 117.
Switzerland has been a neutral and stable democracy since 1815.
It is home to various international institutions like the United Nations in Europe, the World Trade Organization, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the Red Cross.
3.5. Public Transportation
Switzerland is an excellent area for families and children since it has modern communications, advanced public transport, and an excellent power supply.
The country boasts a well-developed and efficient public transportation system that allows you to travel rapidly, whether for work or a tour.
The trains are all on schedule, and the intra-city and inter-city transit is excellent. Any remote destination can be identified and reached by public transportation.
Despite not being a member of the European Union, Switzerland is a member of the Schengen Treaty. Citizens of visa-deprived countries (such as India and China) can travel freely inside the EU if they live or work in Switzerland.
3.6. Diversity
With an estimated population of 8.5 million people, the country is a melting pot of people from many walks of life, races, and traditions.
Because English is widely spoken, English-speaking professionals have numerous chances to excel in this country. However, it is always worthwhile to learn the local language to assist you in adjusting to your new life.
It is well-known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, medieval towns, delectable cuisine, and a wide range of recreational opportunities for people of all ages. It contains approximately 600 museums, making it an ideal destination for art lovers.
3.7. High Quality of Life
Switzerland has consistently been balloted as one of the finest countries in the world in quality-of-life index polls.
People work to live here. The norm is that people work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and do not work on weekends or evenings.
This is applied not only to people who go to the office but also to people who work in general stores, shopping malls, and other places. Zurich closes at 7 p.m. on weekdays and only opens until 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
3.8. Healthcare
Obtaining healthcare insurance within three months of relocating to Switzerland is mandatory, but for the cost, you may anticipate good standards, lower wait times, and top-quality care.
Switzerland has a universal healthcare system; non-profit and government-approved insurance providers provide affordable policies.
Individuals will benefit from the system since it is designed to decrease expenses.
4. Disadvantages
As you can see, there are numerous advantages to making Switzerland your new home.
The country is famous worldwide for its highest quality of living, so it’s no surprise that there are numerous advantages to relocating there!
However, where there are advantages, there must also be disadvantages.
Switzerland also has some drawbacks, which you should be aware of if considering relocating there.
4.1. Expenses
Zurich and Geneva are the most famous Swiss destinations for ex-pats.
The Swiss are generally risk-averse, necessitating a plethora of insurance. As a result, they pay higher insurance premiums.
Groceries are another bill that may leave a sour taste in your mouth. All kinds of beverages are available here, which are among the 37 nations studied, according to Eurostat data.
4.2. High Property Prices
Switzerland’s real estate is pricey, and the country cannot be considered inexpensive or affordable.
Most Swiss residents — over 60% of the population – rent their homes rather than own them, resulting in a highly crowded and competitive rental market.
Obtaining an apartment in the first place will also be costly. Many Swiss rent apartments and then stay for an extended time.
Even if you find the ideal apartment, competition will undoubtedly exist.
If you hire an agent, you’ll have a better chance of winning, but it will cost you money.
The cost of home living in Switzerland is extremely high. It depends on where you reside. However, prices in cities are pretty hefty.
People rent outside cities, in rural areas, or in smaller towns connected to major hubs to save money.
It is fairly common to live in a smaller location outside of Zürich or Geneva and then commute to work.
4.3. Rigid Rules and Regulations
Switzerland is a strict country, and it’s best not to get involved in any monkey business here.
Numerous reports have been of people losing their work permits due to speeding on the highway.
If you are here on a work permit, you should avoid doing anything unlawful because your permit will be revoked immediately.
You will not have any problems if you are a decent visitor.
However, do not be surprised if Swiss people ask you to follow their norms regarding waste disposal, apartment building behaviour, and street behaviour, among other things.
Everyone is subject to the rules and wants to live in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere.
4.4. High Cost of Living
Switzerland is an overpriced country in which to live. Rents are comparable to those in London and New York City. Grocery stores and restaurants are also expensive.
Switzerland has several of the world’s most expensive cities, so coming there from a country like Canada could be a financial shock.
To make the most of life in Switzerland, you will need a high salary and solid budgeting skills, especially if you wish to live near the city centre, where the excitement is.
4.5. Getting a Work Permit is not Easy
Switzerland has a somewhat tight immigration policy, which is a controversial subject.
Many referendums have been taken to determine the future of immigration into Alpine countries. Still, the only straightforward method to receive a work permit right now is to get a job first and then come to Switzerland.
As an EU citizen, you can work in Switzerland for three months without taking any particular administrative steps. For employment beyond this period, you must apply for a residence permit from your municipality before starting work. However, after three months, you must pay the insurance here (about 300 CHF monthly).
If you find a job first, you will get a B permit. For EU/EFTA citizens, the B permit permits you to live in Switzerland for five years, after which you can either extend it or apply for a C permit if you have lived in Switzerland for five years.
Many people from non-EU countries come to Switzerland as partners of Swiss residents, allowing them to obtain a residence permit and subsequently hunt for work.
Key Takeaways
Unsurprisingly, this lovely country is one of the top choices for people who want to live and work in Europe.
Therefore, it ranks among the most significant countries to live in, thanks to its natural beauty, infrastructure, personal safety, and earning potential.
With its strong economy, efficient public service, and a significant focus on environmental sustainability, the country offers a solid foundation for individuals and families to thrive.
Its commitment to education, healthcare, and safety forms a conducive personal and professional development environment.
As a result, Switzerland continues to cement its place as a highly desirable destination for those pursuing a protected, prosperous, and fulfilling life.
Last Updated on July 10, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty
