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...]
News and Features
Young Swiss liberals launch initiative to curb size of government
The youth wing of the Liberal Party (PLR/FDP) has launched a popular initiative to curb the growth of Switzerland’s federal administration, arguing that it has expanded silently, continuously and without restraint, reported RTS. Backed by other … [Read more...]
FILM: JUSTE UNE ILLUSION ***1/2 (vo French)
17 April 2026 JUSTE UNE ILLUSION ***1/2 (vo French) This coming-of-age story from the point of view of an adorable 12-year old boy set in 1980s Paris is utterly charming, so down-to-earth and retro. Between a self-absorbed older brother and … [Read more...]
Few Swiss tenants claim rent cuts after rate drops
Few Swiss tenants are asking for lower rent, despite a fall in the mortgage reference rate that entitles many to a reduction. A study by Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZKB) finds that although nearly half of tenants could have benefited from the most recent … [Read more...]
Swiss crackdown on forever chemicals faces resistance from farmers
Switzerland’s federal government is stepping up efforts to tackle contamination from PFAS—so-called forever chemicals—but is meeting resistance from cantons and parliament. According to reporting by SRF, officials plan to issue a directive requiring … [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 things you must do if you’re running a Swiss business
Brought to you by Winbiz online accounting for Swiss businesses. Once a business is established, there are many ongoing administrative tasks required by law. The main ones are covered in this article. The first few relate to employees and … [Read More...]
Activities
Alpine panoramas, fondue and snowballs at Europe’s highest railway station
On top of the Jungfrau, the alpine views (and elevation) will take your breath away. By Bill Harby The two-plus-hour train ride up, up, up from Interlaken is at least half the fun of going to the Jungfraujoch visitors center, 3,454 meters above … [Read more...]
The Swiss town on the 2019 New York Times’ places-to-visit list
Every year the New York Times assembles a list of 52 recommended places to visit. This year it lists Vevey at number 49. 2019 is a big year for Vevey. It is the year of the Unesco-recognized Fête des Vignerons, an event held every 20 to 25 … [Read more...]
5 totally-not-stuffy Swiss museums for kids of all ages
By Bill Harby Winter weather is the perfect time for families to explore Switzerland’s fine museums. Some suggestions: Swiss Museum of Transport Lucern No wonder this is the most-visited museum in Switzerland with its hands-on exhibits showing the … [Read more...]
