More building and slower immigration are taking pressure off the rental market. But rents are still rising. Finding a flat in Zurich has long meant crowded viewings and frequent rejection. Now there are tentative signs of relief. Zurich Cantonal … [Read more...]
News and Features
Why Swiss mortgage rates are rising faster in some regions than others
Switzerland’s mortgage rates are rising. How much borrowers pay depends on where they are. Switzerland has one currency, but its mortgage market is far from uniform. In the third quarter of 2026, median ten-year fixed rates ranged from 1.62% in … [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...]
Swiss flu vaccines delayed, but no shortage expected
Some flu-vaccine deliveries to Switzerland are delayed this autumn. RTS reports that about 40% of doses are affected. But the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) says everyone who wants to be vaccinated will be able to do so before the seasonal … [Read more...]
Switzerland considers doubling police detention period after Bern riots
Police want more time to investigate violent protests. Human-rights groups fear that suspects’ legal protections could suffer. A year after a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Bern turned violent, Swiss lawmakers are moving to double the time … [Read more...]
Guides
Setting up a business in Switzerland – a guide
Brought to you by Winbiz online accounting for Swiss businesses. So you have decided to start a business. You have a business plan and are ready to get started. Before you launch you need a name and possibly a company. Broadly there are two options … [Read More...]
8-step guide to hiring a nanny in Switzerland
Brought to you by quitt.ch - No. 1 provider of registration and administration services for domestic help in Switzerland. 1. What do nannies cost in Switzerland? Nannies are expensive in Switzerland. Average monthly salaries range from CHF 3,300 to … [Read More...]
Activities
Here’s why the Chateau de Chillon is Switzerland’s most-visited castle
The Chateau de Chillon is the most-visited historic building in Switzerland. There must be a reason, beyond the fact that it’s easy to get to on the edge of Lake Geneva near Montreux. You enter the Middle Ages as you cross the little castle’s … [Read more...]
Swiss architect Le Corbusier’s Villa “Le Lac” turns 100
Granted UNESCO world heritage status in July 2016, Villa "Le Lac" in the canton of Vaud in Switzerland celebrates its 100 year anniversary in 2023. A number of celebrations are planned until October. The Villa, on the outskirts of Vevey, is open to … [Read more...]
Switzerland’s spectacular dams and their uncertain future
Switzerland’s 604 hydroelectric plants aren’t just powerhouses for clean energy. Some dams are also dramatic destinations. But their source of fuel is literally drying up. By Bill Harby Switzerland’s glaciers are shrinking. In 2015, of 99 Swiss … [Read more...]
