Relocation & arrival

What deadlines must be observed when moving house? What can be imported into Switzerland and what do I need to bear in mind when importing pets? Do you need a visa to enter the country with your employment contract? You can find further information here.

The Gerechtigkeitsgasse in Bern, decorated with Swiss flags and flowers at the fountain, is bathed in the golden light of a clear morning, a picture of tranquillity and city life in harmony.

Entry & Import

Did you know that VAT is payable when entering and leaving Switzerland and neighbouring countries, as Switzerland is not a member of the EU?

Entry & Residence Permits

Family Reunifcation & Visa Extensions

Customs Regulations

Import of Vehicles

Import & Registration of Domestic Animals

Pets must be imported via a manned border crossing. The animal must be presented in person with the forms required for import.

FOCBS: Dogs, cats, domestic animals

Registration of dogs in Switzerland

The municipality of residence registers relocations, changes of owner or the death of a dog in the AMICUS database. People with preferential status must also register their dogs with their municipality of residence.

Not all municipalities are able to register dogs. Please contact your municipality directly to find out whether the municipality or the canton is responsible for this.

Animals

Canton of Bern: Keeping animals
FOCBS: Dogs, cats, domestic animals
FSVO: Keeping pets and wild animals
Berner Tierschutz: Reporting centre for found animals

Relocation & Arrival

Formalities & Deadlines

Removal Companies & Rental Furniture

Tips & checklists

Die Nydeggbrücke in Bern überspannt die Aare bei Sonnenuntergang, wobei der Fluss sanft unter einem Himmel in Pastelltönen fließt und die historische Architektur in ein friedvolles, malerisches Licht taucht.

Welcome Event

The International Bern Welcome Desk organizes welcome events for the international community in summer and autumn.

Welcome events for newcomers

Many municipalities organise welcome events for residents. If you are registered with the municipality, you will receive an invitation. The event is usually held in German.