Moving to Switzerland
The practical guide to doing business and living from Geneva to the Jura. Each theme gives the essentials and links to official sources.
Updated: 10 November 2026
Doing business
Setting up a company, establishing a presence, understanding taxation and growing, from Geneva to the Jura.
Good to know
- Company formation and commercial register filings are done online through the official business portal.
- The articles in the Doing business in Switzerland section follow news on company set-ups and taxation.
Official links
Living
Arriving and settling in, from Geneva to the Jura.
Good to know
- Anyone moving to Switzerland registers their arrival with their municipality or canton of residence.
- The deadline is generally 14 days.
- In Geneva, this is done with the Cantonal Population and Migration Office (OCPM).
Official links
Working
Employment and residence permits.
Good to know
- Nationals of the European Union and EFTA benefit from the free movement of persons.
- Other nationalities need a work permit, issued under stricter conditions.
Official link
Studying
Schools, universities and training.
Good to know
- Higher education institutions include the University of Geneva, the University of Lausanne, EPFL, the universities of Fribourg and Neuchâtel, and HES-SO.
Official link
Health
Health insurance and the healthcare system.
Good to know
- Basic health insurance is compulsory for anyone residing in Switzerland.
- It must be taken out within three months of arrival.
- Premiums vary by canton, age and insurer.
Everyday life
Housing, mobility and formalities.
Good to know
- The official portal of the Swiss authorities provides useful information on housing, mobility and everyday formalities.
