Registering with Swiss authorities after arrival
You must register in person at the Einwohnerkontrolle (residents' office) of your Swiss commune within 14 days of arrival. Bring passport, signed rental contract, employment contract, marriage and birth certificates (apostilled, translated if needed) and a passport photo. The fee is typically CHF 40-100 per adult; this step issues your residence permit.
Overview
Registration is the single most important first step. Until you've registered, no employer can pay you legally, no bank account can be opened in your name and no insurance can issue you a real policy number. Book the appointment for week 1.
Step-by-step registration
- 1
Book the appointment
Most communes require online booking. In Zurich, Geneva and Basel waiting lists can be 1-3 weeks - book before you land.
- 2
Gather documents
Passport for every family member, signed lease, employment contract, marriage certificate, children's birth certificates, last residence deregistration. Non-EU documents may need apostille and certified translation.
- 3
Attend in person
Every adult and every child must attend. The officer checks documents, takes biometrics, registers your address and forwards the file to the cantonal migration office.
- 4
Declare confession (or none)
If you declare a recognised confession (Catholic, Reformed, Christ Catholic, Jewish in some cantons) church tax applies. State 'none' if you do not wish to pay it.
- 5
Receive registration confirmation
Issued on the spot. Banks, insurers and employers accept this as proof while the permit card is being produced (4-8 weeks).
- 6
Update child enrolment
Public school enrolment is triggered by registration - the commune contacts you about school placement, usually within days.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the 14-day deadline?+
Most communes issue a small fine (CHF 40-200) and still register you. Repeated or wilful failure can affect later permit renewals - register as soon as you can and explain any delay.
Can I register before I have a permanent address?+
No - a signed long-term lease (or notarised proof of ownership) is required. Hotel and short-term Airbnb addresses are not accepted in most communes. Sublet contracts work if the landlord consents in writing.
Do my children need to register too?+
Yes - every family member must be registered individually, even infants. Bring each birth certificate.
Will I receive my permit card immediately?+
No - the commune issues a registration confirmation immediately, but the physical permit card from the cantonal migration office takes 4-8 weeks and a separate fee (CHF 65-150).