Searching for accommodation in Switzerland involves fulfilling certain administrative formalities. These obligations also apply to foreign nationals. It is therefore necessary to inquire whether or not a residence permit must be provided as part of the rental application.
In Switzerland, when you are looking for a property to rent, whether it's an apartment or a house, you need to prepare a rental application. This administrative requirement helps determine the quality of applicants. This includes the income of the applicants who are in the process of signing a lease agreement. In addition to financial information, the application may also require potential guarantors, details about the household composition, and marital status. Both Swiss residents and foreign nationals are subject to these requirements.
For individuals who are not Swiss nationals but reside and work in Switzerland, several documents, such as a B or C permit, need to be provided as part of the rental application. These permits are residence permits that also serve as work permits.
Note: Swiss nationals do not require a residence permit. They will simply be asked to provide their last three payslips (or alternatively, their employment contract) as part of their rental application.
According to Article 24 of the Swiss Employment Law, foreigners are allowed to work in Switzerland if they have a place to live. In theory, it is therefore possible to rent an apartment without a work permit, at least initially. However, employment and the applicant's income are the main criteria for granting a rental property.
You will need to provide evidence of your salary or, if not available, present a prospective job offer in the short term. This can be done through a signed contract or by demonstrating specific professional skills. It is preferable to conduct housing search activities concurrently with job search efforts.
For French nationals or citizens of European Union countries, a residence permit (B or C permit) is required after the first three months of residence. It should be noted that the B or C permit serves as both a residence permit and a work permit.
For foreign nationals from outside the European Union, entry into Switzerland requires a valid residence permit, as well as the presentation of an employment contract. The employment contract, therefore, becomes a prerequisite for renting an apartment in Switzerland.
As a foreign national, SherlockHomes can assist you in fulfilling certain administrative formalities and help you find an apartment to rent in Switzerland.
This article cannot be exhaustive and does not engage the responsibility of its author.
My account
Français
