Returning to Switzerland needs to be well organised. This includes organising the move, dealing with insurance, finding a job, enrolling your children in school, and applying for unemployment or financial support.
The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) provides a guide with several tips on planning your return to Switzerland.
SwissCommunity, the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), also provides information on return migration.
Swiss citizens who decide to move back to Switzerland after a long stay abroad can move most of their belongings without paying customs duties. This ch.ch page outlines the required formalities.
The FAQs on removal goods published by the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security provide answers to the most frequently asked questions.
The OSA lists a large number of job portals, recruitment agencies and temping agencies. This OSA website provides helpful information when looking for work in Switzerland.
For those who are not sure whether they are entitled to unemployment benefits when they return to Switzerland, the FDFA explains the relevant conditions under the tab Unemployment and social security near the bottom of the page.
The work.swiss portal provided by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) allows you to search for a job, apply for unemployment benefits and get advice for your job search. You can apply for unemployment benefits online or at the regional employment centre (RAV) of the commune where you live.
Don't forget to apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible. The RAV can then help you look for work.
FDFA guide for planning your return to Switzerland
The guide for return migration by SwissCommunity, the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA)
Information on ch.ch for moving to Switzerland
Every person residing in Switzerland must be affiliated to a health insurance company. Ch.ch provides information on how to take out health insurance.