Moving abroad brings with it numerous challenges and requires particularly thorough planning. From applying for visas and work permits in good time to organizing transport and customs clearance – there are many things to consider. Start planning early to clarify all the formalities and find out about the country-specific regulations. In our article, you will find a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you manage your relocation abroad in a stress-free and well-organized manner.

Table of contents

Author

Ahmad Daued

Category

Relocation

Updated

6. February 2025

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6 months before the relocation

1. visas and work permits

  • Check the entry and residence regulations of the destination country. Check whether a visa or residence permit is required and apply for it.
  • EU or third country : Visas are not usually required for relocations within the EU, but there may still be registration requirements. For non-EU countries, a visa or work permit is often required. Start the application process early, as this can take several months.
  • Take a vacation in the destination country to get to know it better (if you have not already done so).

It is important to get to know the country not only from a vacationer’s perspective, but also to get to know the culture and mentality.

  • Research the culture, mentality of the inhabitants, the housing and labor market.
  • Take the first steps towards finding a job and accommodation in the destination country.

2. check important documents

  • Ensure validity of passport and identity card. Passport and/or identity card should still be valid for at least 6 months on departure.
  • Check your driver’s license for validity in your destination country and apply for an international driver’s license if necessary.

3. finance and insurance

  • Plan moving and living costs in the destination country.
  • Adjust health, liability and household contents insurance. At the same time, find out about insurance in the new country.
  • Find out about the tax implications and possible foreign relocation allowances.

3 months before the relocation

1. finding accommodation in the destination country

  • Continue looking for accommodation and prepare rental contracts.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents for registering your apartment in your destination country.

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So that Umzugsservice Zürich GmbH can professionally assess the total amount of work involved, we are happy to offer our valued customers a free and non-binding viewing appointment. This allows you to benefit from a serious and precise quote. Take into account whether the transport is by land or sea, as this can significantly affect the cost and duration of the relocation.

  • Decide what you want to take with you, sell, donate or store. Take into account customs and import regulations for moving goods and vehicles.

3. visa, work permit and certified translations

  • If necessary, apply for certified translations of important documents (e.g. birth and marriage certificates).

4. childcare and school

  • Research schools, kindergartens or childcare options in the destination country and enroll.

5. terminations and deregistrations in Switzerland

  • Terminate rental agreements and provide information about plans to sell or let your property. Please note the notice periods (normally 3 months).
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1 month before the relocation

1. deregistration with the authorities (residents’ registration office).

  • Take care of the sale of your car or prepare the import into the destination country. Importing your own car is expensive and time-consuming in many countries.

2. preparations for the relocation

  • Pack the things you want to take with you and make a list for customs.
  • Organize the packing material and take out removal insurance.

3. finances and bank accounts

  • Open a bank account in the destination country and plan your tax obligations.
  • Check which current contracts in Switzerland need to be terminated or paused.

4. pets and import regulations

  • Find out about the import regulations for pets and organize the necessary vaccinations and health certificates.

1 week before the relocation

1. travel preparations

  • Make sure you have all your travel documents (visa, passport, tickets) to hand.
  • Pack an emergency bag with the most important things you will need as soon as you arrive.

2. final preparations

  • Deregistration of residence, insurance, internet, electricity and other contracts.
  • Inform all relevant departments of your new address.

After the relocation

1. registration in the country of destination

  • Register with the local authorities (place of residence, tax number, social security number).
  • Register your vehicle and take out insurance.

2. insurances

  • Take out insurance in the destination country (health, accident, household contents insurance).
  • Check whether you need to remain insured in Switzerland if you are liable for tax in several countries.

3. financial matters

  • Open a local bank account, if you haven’t already done so, and set up internet and telephone contracts.

4. integration

  • Start making contacts and settling into your new environment.
  • If necessary, take part in language courses and get used to the new situation.

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