The Expat Playbook: How to Relocate to Switzerland Without Stress

Knotted
May 26
5 min read

Relocating to Switzerland is a life-changing decision. For many individuals, families, and business owners with international exposure, it represents more than a simple change of address: it’s about building a more stable, secure, and prosperous future. But even if the benefits of living in Switzerland are well known—stability, efficiency, quality of life—the process of relocating can be complex and full of potential pitfalls.

At Knotted, we help you avoid those mistakes and turn your relocation into a smooth and strategic journey. Based in Ticino, we specialize in relocation services for expats, with a focus on the unique needs of wealthy individuals, entrepreneurs, and international families. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of what the process really looks like, and how to do it properly from day one.

1. Choosing the right residence permit: every case is different

Switzerland offers several types of residence permits, and selecting the right one is the foundation of a successful relocation. Depending on your nationality, age, professional activity, and financial situation, the applicable regime may vary significantly.

For European Union (EU) and EFTA nationals, permits are generally easier to obtain, with more flexibility. For non-EU citizens, the process is more selective and often requires detailed planning. Whether you are relocating for retirement, family reasons, self-employment, or asset management purposes, our residence permit assistance in Ticino ensures that you choose the most suitable legal path.

Many of our clients use the lump-sum taxation system, available in certain cantons including Ticino, which allows them to pay tax based on their living expenses rather than their income or global assets. This is a highly attractive option for wealthy individuals not engaged in gainful activity in Switzerland.

2. Real estate and housing: how to find the right property, and avoid costly mistakes

One of the first practical steps in relocating is finding a suitable home. The Swiss real estate market is structured, high-quality, but also highly regulated. Foreigners face limitations on what and where they can buy, especially when it comes to secondary residences or investment properties.

Understanding the real estate rules in Ticino is crucial: the canton offers both urban and lakeside properties, with a wide range of options from modern apartments to historical villas. Our team supports you in every step: from property search and visits, to negotiation and contract review, all the way through to utilities setup and integration into the local community.

If you're planning to rent rather than buy, expat housing services in Switzerland are essential. We help you avoid the bureaucracy, language barriers, and hidden clauses that often complicate rental agreements—especially if you’re not yet physically present in the country.

3. Swiss bank accounts and wealth planning: setting up the right financial foundation

Opening a Swiss bank account may seem simple, but in practice it has become more selective, especially for international clients. Many banks require a Swiss address or a local connection, and account types vary depending on your residency status and profile.

We work with several banking partners to assist you in opening both personal and corporate accounts, including multi-currency portfolios and private banking solutions. Beyond the operational side, we help structure your financial setup through Swiss asset management, holding structures, and, where relevant, insurance-based solutions for wealth protection.

4. Tax planning and legal structuring: avoid cross-border complications

Relocating to Switzerland has important tax and legal implications—especially for clients with assets, income, or family connections in multiple jurisdictions. Proper cross-border tax planning is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises after the move.

At Knotted, we coordinate with legal and tax professionals both in Switzerland and abroad to ensure that your entire structure—personal and corporate—is compliant, optimized, and aligned with your long-term objectives. Whether you need help with Swiss lump-sum taxation, international trust structures, or family office integration, we guide you with clarity and precision.

5. Family relocation: education, healthcare, and quality of life

Switzerland is one of the most desirable countries in the world for raising a family. The combination of security, clean air, high-quality healthcare, and world-class education makes it an ideal destination for international families.

In Ticino, families enjoy access to bilingual and international schools, including institutions like TASIS (The American School in Switzerland), known for its academic excellence and global orientation. The private healthcare system in Switzerland is ranked among the best in the world, and we assist clients in choosing insurance plans, private doctors, and pediatricians who speak your language and understand your needs.

Relocation with children is not just about logistics—it’s about emotional and social integration. We help your family feel at home from the first week.

6. Company relocation: move your business to a safer, more efficient environment

Many entrepreneurs and business owners choose Switzerland not just for personal reasons, but to establish or relocate their company. The country offers one of the most business-friendly environments in Europe, with competitive tax regimes, strong legal protection, and efficient administration.

Ticino, in particular, is attractive for holding companies and family-owned structures due to its proximity to Italy and flexible regulatory environment. Whether you are transferring an existing business, setting up a new Swiss holding company, or building a family office, we provide support with incorporation, local compliance, accounting, and office search.

Our company relocation services to Switzerland are tailored to the needs of business owners who want a long-term, strategic move—not just a registered address.

7. Local integration: small details make a big difference

Moving to a new country always involves more than just legal paperwork and real estate. It’s the daily details that often make or break the experience.

From mobile phone subscriptions and vehicle registration to finding a trusted housekeeper or joining a tennis club, Knotted takes care of the small things that matter. We don’t stop when you get your permit—we stay by your side until you feel at home.

In Ticino, this also means understanding the cultural blend of Italian warmth and Swiss structure. We help you navigate local etiquette, language barriers, and day-to-day interactions with public offices, schools, and neighbors.

Why Knotted is different

Unlike traditional relocation firms that focus only on paperwork or logistics, Knotted combines deep expertise in finance, law, tax, and lifestyle. We are based in Ticino, and we know the region not just as consultants—but as residents. We act as your local strategic partner, ensuring that every aspect of your move is managed with competence, care, and confidentiality.

We work with a selected network of realtors, lawyers, tax advisors, banks, and family offices, offering a level of service tailored to high-net-worth individuals, global entrepreneurs, and international families with complex needs.

Relocating to Switzerland is an investment in your future. At Knotted, we make sure you do it right.

Get in touch with Knotted

If you’re exploring a move to Switzerland, or already planning your relocation to Ticino, we’d be happy to guide you step by step.

Knotted – Your partner for relocation, asset protection, and a better life in Switzerland.