The Swiss authorities online
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The political system at a single click
From popular votes and initiatives to political parties and the peculiarities of Swiss federalism. Discover the many aspects of the Swiss political system.
How the Swiss state works?
The brochure "The Swiss Confederation – a brief guide" gives you a broad yet clear picture of Switzerland’s political institutions.
Work
Working hours and absences, minimum wage, references, self-employment
Swiss customs
Entry, customs formalities when moving to or from Switzerland, clearance of private goods.
Minimum wages in Switzerland
Are there any provisions for minimum and average wages?
Tax return
Filling out your tax return, salary statement, deducting donations etc.
Driving licence
Driving licence, learner’s licence, driving test.
Divorce
Proceedings, alimony, child custody.
Marriage
Wedding at the the register office, choice of last name, legal and economic consequences.
Ticks
How and where to watch out for them?
Naturalisation
Regular and simplified naturalisation: requirements, costs, length
Passport and ID card
Ordering, validity, loss.
Holidays abroad
Travel documents, customs regulations, health risks, travel information, etc.
OASI (AHV)
Number, Card, number, contributions, etc.
Employment contract
Model employment contract, terminating an employment contract, CEA.
Job reference
Am I entitled to a job reference? What information must and can be included?
Register unemployment
When and how do you need to register with the employment office or RAV?
Speed limits and fines
What kind of fines and penalties do I risk to face when I drive over the speed limit?
Self-employment
Getting started, insurances, occupational pension
Rent
Tenancy law: renting an apartment, how to go about giving notice, how to deal with rent increases and reductions, etc.
Personal liability insurance
What does it cover and how does it work?
Buying a house or an apartment
Financing the purchase, forms of ownership, purchase contract etc.
Letter of invitation
Letter of invitation, declaration of sponsorship, traveller’s or guest insurance
Value Added Tax
VAT rate, claiming back, forms
Filing a report
How to file a criminal complaint.
Relations Switzerland - EU
Consequences of the Swiss vote on the free movement of persons.
The Swiss Confederation
Order or download here “The Swiss Confederation: a brief guide”.
Tax return - Requesting an extension
How to apply with the cantonal tax authorities for an extension.
Health insurance: entitlement to a reduction
Where can you apply for a premium reduction?
Maternity leave
How long is it and how much money do I get during this period?
Debt enforcement: register
How do I order an extract certificate from the Debt Collection Register?
Addresses of administrative authorities
Residence permits - Overview and renewal
Requesting or renewal of Swiss residence permit.
Old age pension
OASI (AHV), occupational and private pensions.
Work in the administration
Are you looking for work in the federal government, cantons, communes?