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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. 

Ticks

How and where to watch out for them?

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.

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?