Several new laws and regulations come into force in Switzerland on January 1st 2026, along with a number of other policy changes. Fewer scam callsCalls from fraudsters posing as police officers, bank employees or officials—often made from abroad … [Read more...]
News and Features
Crans-Montana fire: criminal case opened against bar managers
Prosecutors in the Swiss canton of Valais have opened a criminal investigation into the managers of a bar in Crans-Montana where a fire killed 40 people and injured 119 others. The two suspects, a French couple, are being investigated on … [Read more...]
Language requirements for Swiss citizenship and visas – what you need to know
Brought to you by Swiss French School. On 1 January 2019, Switzerland’s federal government tightened and harmonised the rules on language requirements to qualify for some residence permits, B and C permits in particular, and … [Read more...]
Deadly fire in Crans-Montana leaves more than 40 dead and more than 100 injured
A fire in a bar in the Alpine resort of Crans-Montana in the early hours of New Year’s Day has left about 40 people dead and 115 injured, many of them seriously, according to a Police statement. Swiss federal and cantonal authorities described the … [Read more...]
Switzerland to allow catch-up payments into third-pillar pensions
Private retirement saving is popular in Switzerland; nearly 60% of workers hold a pillar 3a account, which lets savers prepare for retirement while benefiting from annual tax relief. From January 1st 2026 they will gain more flexibility: missed … [Read more...]
Guides
15 things you should know about Swiss health insurance
It's health insurance season. Average premiums are increasing in 2018. Compulsory basic Swiss health insurance can generally only be changed once a year. To change you must notify your current provider by 30 November. This article explains the basics … [Read More...]
Language requirements for Swiss citizenship and visas – what you need to know
Brought to you by Swiss French School. On 1 January 2019, Switzerland’s federal government tightened and harmonised the rules on language requirements to qualify for some residence permits, B and C permits in particular, and … [Read More...]
Activities
20 ice skating rinks around Lake Geneva. Get your skates on!
Ice skating season is here so get your skates on! There are ice-skating rinks all over Geneva, Vaud and neighbouring Fribourg. Entrance prices vary and all rinks have skates that you can hire. The links below will take you to the relevant websites … [Read more...]
Switzerland’s cow parade (désalpe/alpabzug) 2025 and its history
By Bill Harby What exactly is the alpine descent or désalpe / alpabzug? This article explores the event’s history and where to see it. In Switzerland, we know the clock will soon strike autumn when processions of cows crowned with flowers and … [Read more...]
Montreux to Gruyères on the chocolate train. Switzerland’s most delicious trip.
By Bill Harby Sorry Willy Wonka, but you won’t want to eat your mode of transportation on The Chocolate Train tour. However, yes, before the day is out, you will taste delicious Swiss chocolate and cheese, and still have time to explore one of the … [Read more...]
