helloswitzerland.chPresentingPartner: issue 2/2022 The number one knowledge and inspiration source for Switzerland’s international community “A wealthof Switzerland”toknowledgehelpallexpatsin (Maggie L. on My Journey) NATURE PARKSALPINESWISS DESCENTS RELOCATING WITH CHILDREN WINE FESTIVALS
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Photo credits: Cover: Family hike in Gantrisch Nature Park © Switzerland Tourism/ Ivo Scholz
Live and work in Switzerland the easy way
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All you need to know and do as an international resident in Switzerland. Never miss a thing, as we guide you on your Journey. Find valuable knowledge to do things on your own or get essential services from trusted providers. My Journey is our innovative digital solution designed to make your life in Switzerland easy and fun. For example, if you’re Relocating to Switzerland, you won’t care so much about how recycling works, there are more pressing matters. But once you’re Living here, this suddenly becomes important. And we’ll tell you all about it. Simply choose where you are in the journey (Research, Relocate, Living or Leaving) and you’ll be able to find the information you need when it matters most.
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As a licensed Swisscom re-seller, Hello Switzerland will connect you to Swisscom in the easiest way possible: We’ll handle all the admin for you at no extra charge. You’ll benefit from service in English and ultra-fast response from our knowledgeable team. You’ll benefit from unique sign in conditions and flexible cancellation terms in case you have to leave Switzerland. Quick and easy Swisscom activation GET CONNECTED internationalforresidents helloswitzerland.ch/offers Relocation Connect to Swisscom now A special free service for international residents 5
BEST OF SWISS NATURE PARKS
Provided by: Switzerland Tourism If you need an inspiring break away from your offi ce at home or a family activity that’s suitable for a range of ages, a trip to one of Switzerland’s many nature parks is exactly what you’re looking for. There are many to choose from – we’ve highlighted six staff favourites.
Explore the quintessential Swiss culture and landscapes as you enjoy these top nature parks
FEATURED PARTNER: DISCOVER SWITZERLAND
Switzerland’s breathtaking Alps, lush rolling hills and storied hiking trails are some of its most distinguishing features. Many of these pristine landscapes have been turned into nature parks, which protect the region’s environment and traditions while encouraging people to enjoy them. This allows not only fl ora and fauna to thrive, but culture and artisanal practices as well. When you visit any of these parks, get ready for a combination of fun learning and exploring as you take in stunning scenery.
6 TRAVEL INSPIRATION Parco Calanca @ Switzerland Tourism/ Daniel Loosli
TRAVEL INSPIRATION 7
For more travel info and tips throughout Switzerland, please get in touch with expats@switzerland.com or phone 0800 100 200 Swiss National Park, Graubünden Established over a century ago and extending over 170km2, the Swiss National Park is still the largest protected area in Switzerland. It’s known for its extraordinary variety of alpine animals and flora, which you can encounter and discover while joining a guided walk or hiking any of its 21 routes.
Biosfera Val GraubündenMüstair,
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The Doubs National Park is a cross-border project with France. The Freiburg Mountains in the southern side of the park are a paradise for horses and equestrians. Hikers and bikers can cut through pastures and learn more about the “Freiburger” horse breed that is at home in the Jura mountains.
This park is a treasure trove for nature lovers. Its pine forests, rocky steppes and dry meadows are just some of the wonders you’ll find here. One highlight in particular? The “Pleasure Route” where you can sample regional wines and also learn how to use wild herbs as food or medicine. 6 4 1 2 3
Wildnispark Zurich Sihlwald, Zurich
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Doubs, NeuchâtelJura-Bern-
The perfect place to explore nature with your family, this park is just a five-minute walk from the Sihlwald train station. You can choose between grilled food stations and various summer hikes in addition to three different playgrounds, not to mention an exciting scavenger hunt for young explorers.
Aargau Jura Park
Discover more spectacular autumn experiences throughout Switzerland on MySwitzerland.com/autumn Visit this website in English to plan your perfect trip in Switzerland: MySwitzerland.com/expats
Home to “Switzerland’s Wild West”, Entlebuch was designated as the country’s first UNESCO biosphere reserve. This means it uses creative sustainable practices to enhance the features that make the region special. Here you can travel down majestic trails, take a mud bath or visit the famed “Heiligkreuz”.
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Entlebuch, Lucerne
The multifaceted crafts practised in the sunny Val Müstair valley reflect the traditions of the area. Visitors can enjoy a view of the Münster Valley after an easy hike through the Swiss pine forests. When it snows, Nordic skiers can discover a 40-kilometre-long cross-country trail.
Provided
Get expert education advice
How can we as parents help our children adjust to a new country when it’s new and foreign for them as well? Focusing on a loving connection between a parent and a child is vital to help the child integrate.
The unhappiness often results from our resistance to the current situation and spills into our perception of every small detail of our surroundings and our day. The only way to be happy is to focus on what we have now, rather than thinking about the past. Know that your thinking, not Switzerland, is making you unhappy.
RELOCATING WITH CHILDREN
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8 LIVING IN STYLE helloswitzerland.ch/offers
Create a safe space for your child, in their bedroom for instance. Identify and bring along key toys, games and books that help to establish that protected, familiar environment your child needs. Be prepared for a change of behavior in your child. This might include anything from slight behavioral regressions, increasing tensions to complete withdrawal or none of the above. Often your child behaves clingier because you, as a parent, become their home. Be there, attention -wise, as much as you can for them.
Many expat families experience dislocation on personal, family and community levels. On a personal level, many expat mothers find themselves thrown into the identity of housewife (or stay-at-home-mom). This disrupts their sense of identity, worth and purpose in their new world. On a family level, many experience a sudden change as their wider family and friends’ support network disappears in the move. The insecurity, loneness, lack of direction and dissatisfaction can result in an increasing strain on the family.
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Tips for helping children settle into life in Switzerland by: Packimpex
Reach out. On a community level, there are many positive opportunities for friendship and support. The expat communities in Switzerland are used to, and enjoy, welcoming new families and showing them how things work and how to settle in this new land.
How to deal with these issues?
To help overcome the challenges of relocating with young kids, we’ve put together a list of tips from education experts.
Get more info on education from Packimpex Living
FEATURED PARTNER: RELOCATION
Packimpex offers the full range of destination services such as arrival, orientation, housing search, immigration, and also education support. Mauro Cecchi and his team will provide expert schooling and education consultation adapted for your region so you can choose the best form of education and the best school for your children.
Give yourself time to become more comfortable with change and transition.
A celebration of slow food, regional products and the pleasure of taste. The event takes place in various places in Switzerland, but the focus this year is Basel. bit.ly/HelloGout2022
In 1746, the Swiss Confederates won a brilliant victory over Charles the Bold in Murten. According to the legend, a harbinger ran from Murten to Fribourg with the branch of a limetree in his hand to announce the Swiss victory. That event is commemorated every autumn with a race that attracts thousands of runners from all around the world. bit.ly/HelloMoratRace2022
Ovronnaz, Valais
8 October Chestnut Festival Ascona, Ticino
18 September Fromage & Cime
Lucerne Live music, authentic food and snappy servers let you experience Bavarian hospitality firsthand. Enjoy “WiesnGaudi” in the big beer tent that hosts over 1400 guests. bit.ly/HelloOktoberfestLucerne2022
15 – 25 September Semaine du Goût Various locations in Switzerland
2 – 24 September Lucerne Oktoberfest
The Ballenberg Open Air Museum hosts the quintessential traditional Switzerland, with traditional houses and crafts. Fifteen local festivals and autumn customs from across Switzerland are set to come together at Ballenberg, where towns, villages, valley communities, Alpine co-operatives and other associations will take centre stage for a collective showcase of aspects of their autumn festival traditions and to share their culinary and cultural heritage with you. bit.ly/HelloBallenberg2022
23 – 25 September Fete de la Brocante Le Landeron, Biel/ Bienne
22 September – 2 October Zurich Film Festival Zurich
In three international competitions (“International Feature”, “International Documentary Film”, and “Focus Switzerland, Germany, Austria”), young filmmakers compete for the main prize, the Golden Eye. This is a chance to see some fresh and impressive European productions. bit.ly/HelloZFF2022
Not bull fights, but cow fights. The Swiss version of the corrida is definitely friendlier. bit.ly/HelloCowfights2022
Bonvillar Truffle Market © Switzerland Tourism Jan Geerk
2 October Traditional cow fights Martigny Foire du Valais
For one day, the village of Ovronnaz becomes the capital of the cheese in Valais. Come and savour the best Raclette in Switzerland, combined with typical Valais wines. bit.ly/HelloFromage2022
Switzerland’s largest open-air antiques and flea market is held in this charming lake side village. bit.ly/HelloBrocante2022
2 October Morat – Fribourg Race Lake Morat, Fribourg
“Castagnatas” (chestnut festivals) are celebrated throughout Ticino in October. The Chestnut Festival in Ascona is one of the most popular Visitorsones. are invited to taste over 2000 kg of chestnuts roasted on the fire as well as various chestnut-based delicacies. bit.ly/HelloChestnutsAscona2022 10
WHAT’SEVENTSON September – November 2022
24 – 25 September & 1 – 2 October Festival of Swiss Traditions Ballenberg Open air museum, Brienz
Have a beer and enjoy the fun and traditional atmosphere at the Reitthaus in Winterthur. bit.ly/HelloOktoberfestWinterthur2022
This is the biggest national sports event and one of the most important indoor tennis tournaments in the world. It always brings together the tennis world elite. bit.ly/HelloSwissIndoors2022
1 – 6 November JazzOnze Festival Lausanne
22 – 30 October Swiss Indoors Basel
20 – 30 October Shnit Shortfilmfestival
A unique music festival, where you can get closer to the stars than at any other music event. Seated in the elegant club-like setting at round, candlelit tables, you will be just a few metres away from the stage. The line-up is usually exquisite. bit.ly/HelloBaloiseSession2022
WHAT’S ON 11
Every Friday during Winter time Raclette & Fondue Cruise Lake Lucerne Say cheese! Good food and great vibes make for a fantastic combination on this jovial evening cruise that showcases the very best of Swiss cuisine. Bring your friends and enjoy the fantastic views that only Lake Lucerne can offer in the late autumn and early winter. bit.ly/HelloCruise2022 28 October – 17 November Baloise Session Basel
An exquisite jazz festival. Top international acts will perform live at the Montbenon casino! bit.ly/HelloJazzOnze2022 helloswitzerland.ch/offers 20.09.Hardturm23.10.2022ArealZürich
29 October Bonvillars Truffle Market Bonvillars, Vaud On the last Saturday in October, the village of Bonvillars near Lake Neuchâtel holds the number one truffle market in Switzerland. A must for all foodies! bit.ly/HelloTruffle2022 30 October
Berne Shnit International Shortfilmfestival is part of a worldwide festival. It takes place 8 locations spread throughout the world. Bern is the lucky host city in Europe. bit.ly/HelloShnit2022
Another beautiful stretch to run along, the stunning Lake Lucerne. bit.ly/HelloLucerneMarathon2022
Witness grand visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances. LUZIA takes you in a surreal escape to an imaginary Mexico – a sumptuously vibrant world between dreams and reality. WINticketsfree
SwissCityMarathon Lucerne
20 October – 5 November Oktoberfest Winterthur
Contact Hirslanden‘s special team for international people Living
For a preventive evaluation of the health of a particular organ, or if significant illnesses have previously occurred in your family (for example, bowel cancer), we recommend an organ-specific preventive health checkup. These preventive programs are put together on a specialty-specific basis, and deal with an organ system (for example, the skin is covered by Dermatology).
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN you prevention?
CURE Provided by: Hirslanden How should
At Hirslanden we strongly advocate prevention, identifying underlying issues through preventive health check-ups. With world-renowned surgeons throughout the entire Hirslanden network, our patients know that whatever their medical need they will be in the best possible hands. In many cases, the treatment patients need to undergo, may not have been necessary if there had been a preventive check-up.
Get first-class medical care
helloswitzerland.ch/offers
approach
FEATURED PARTNER: HEALTH
A preventive check-up can save you years of pain and costly treatment. But do you know the right way to approach prevention?
If drug therapy is necessary, a genetic assessment of drug effectiveness contributes significantly to minimizing the risk of treatment failure or drug intolerance. Pharmacogenetics uses information about a person’s genetic constitution, or genetic make-up, to choose the drugs and medicine doses that will be most effective for that person. This innovative field combines pharmacology (the science of how drugs work) with the science of human Hirslanden’sgenomes. ‘Precise’ program intends to use genetic analyses to adapt drug therapy to each individual patient in terms of type and dose. The goal is to make drug therapy safer and more effective.
With 17 top-class hospitals throughout Switzerland and a network of over 3,000 specialized doctors, Hirslanden is the largest private hospital group in Switzerland. When you are a patient at Hirslanden, you can be confident that every possible avenue will be explored and discussed, and that you will receive the best possible treatment for your condition. Call +41 44 388 75 75 to get more information, an individual cost estimate and to book an appointment.
Early-stage diagnosis for most conditions is critical as it provides patients with severalless invasive - options and greatly increases their prospects of a long and happy life.
Prevention done right Efficient prevention means all preventive check-ups are highly personalized. A personalized check-up always starts with a full assessment of your current medical situation to determine all risk constellations.
How does a preventive genetic assessment work?
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GET FIRST-CLASS MEDICAL CARE
44 388 75 hirslanden.com/international75
MEDICAL CARE
When
FIRST-CLASS IN SWITZERLAND you need to see a specialist doctor, Hirslanden has set up a dedicated team to support foreigners in Switzerland. Get in touch with Hirslanden to get fast access to highly experienced specialist doctors from various disciplines, from oncology to plastic surgery or fertility treatment. health is in the best of hands at Hirslanden.+41
Your
w w w EVENTS13
16 FEATURED PARTNER: RELOCATION LIVING IN STYLE
Get more info on Packimpex Departure Support Leaving
LEAVING SWITZERLAND Smooth sailing with Departure Support
Leave Switzerland hassle free
Are you planning to leave Switzerland in the near future?
Provided by: Packimpex
Here’s what to expect and how to make your departure smoother. Leaving Switzerland means more than packing your bags and waving goodbye. And we’ll show you how to prepare for it. The hurdles of leaving Switzerland Ending utilities and insurance contracts, handling the end cleaning of your apartment, selling your vehicle, deregistering from schools and other authorities – all these steps must be done at the right time and in the right order.
How to tackle all departure formalities Start by checking all your contracts for cancellation terms and methodically cancel them all. Don’t forget to deregister from the local authorities –most people tend to leave this aside. Your lease also needs to be terminated and your home handed over – plan this in detail and find out what your rights as a tenant are, to make sure you get your rental deposit back. Smooth sailing with our Departure Support Packimpex has nearly 45 years of relocation experience and has helped more than 8,000 customers leave their homes with peace of mind in the last 10 years alone. When you book our Departure Support, this will make a world of difference, especially if you don’t speak the local Swiss language or if you don’t know Swiss tenancy law. What this means is that a Packimpex Relocation Consultant will coordinate the different steps of your departure and provide support at all necessary steps, from terminating your lease, to finding new tenants or coordinating repairs, even once you’ve left the country. Our team will make sure that the exit inspection of your apartment is handled in a fair manner and in line with Swiss lease standards, to minimize your chances of being held accountable for damage to the property.
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Having an expert on your side ensures you save time on the process and avoid unnecessary costs. A relocation consultant will act as your advocate and negotiate on your behalf and in your best Packimpexinterest.relocation experts will handle any aspect of your departure from Switzerland, eliminate language barriers and, most importantly, guide you past potential pitfalls. Martijn ter Hart and his team are here to support you with every aspect related to your departure from Switzerland. With a relocation expert by your side, you’ll be sure to leave no loose ends behind.
Immigration Case Assessment at CHF 99
Would you like to know if your parents can live with you in Switzerland? If your nanny can come over from your home country? Or if your partner can join you in Switzerland even though you are not married? You can now get fast answers to all questions related to immigration to Switzerland from the immigration specialists at Sgier+Partner. Book an Immigration Case Assessment for CHF 99 and get answers to all your questions on family reunion or immigration of unmarried partners.
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InternationalforResidents Karin Verheijen, Managing Partner of Exactio Ltd and the Exactio team have decades of experience in global mobility and international tax. Do you need help filing your tax return? Or do you simply have questions regarding the Swiss social security and pension system? Get in touch with expert tax advisers who specialize in the complex situation of international residents in Switzerland.
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Living 15
Living
Tax Support
24 - 25 September and 1 - 2 October Lässet
16 WHAT’S ON 23 – 25 September
FESTIVALS September – November 2022
Sunntige/Grape harvest feasts Erlach, Biel/ Bienne
Use this local festival to discover Erlach, an absolutely charming village on the shore of Lake Biel/ Bienne. What you can expect: open wine cellars, fondue, raclette, music, parades, a market with local crafts. bit.ly/HelloErlach2022
8 - 9 October
Cully, Vaud
Twann, Bern
5 - 6 November
Autumn in Switzerland revolves around traditional harvest festivals and alpine descents. It’s your chance to discover old Swiss customs and great seasonal food. If you’re a wine afficionado, check out the autumn grape harvest festivals and taste great Swiss wine straight from winemakers.
We love this charming village with stunning views on Lake Biel. If you add good local wine to it and a spot of raclette, this will be heaven! bit.ly/HelloTwann2022 14 - 16 October Benichon Chatel St. Denis, Fribourg
Grape Harvest Festival
Lutry, Vaud Every year, during the month of September, the old town of Lutry turns into a festival venue to mark the end of the grape harvest: the cellars open, the canteens unfold their banners and the village prepares to live three days of madness, the Fête des Vendanges (grape harvest festival), the last one in the Canton of Vaud! bit.ly/HelloLutry2022
The Varen wine festival offers much for the eyes, but also much for the palate! Taste a glass of wine while having a friendly conversation with Varner vintners – all while trying the various wines and specialities of the Valais. Pure and simple: the Varenwine festival offers fun and enjoyment! bit.ly/HelloVaren2022 1 October Alpine cheese and bells market Saanen, Gstaad
As traditional as it gets, in the lovely village of Saanen, with its rustic architecture. Sample local products and immerse yourself in the traditional Swiss atmosphere. bit.ly/HelloSaanen2022
WINE
Lavaux Classic
The “Bénichon” (blessing) is a traditional popular and gastronomical festival that commemorates the end of the harvest, much like Thanksgiving. It takes place in numerous places in the French part of Switzerland and it’s your chance to try some typical Bénichon foods: the ‘Cuchaule’ bread, the saffron mustard, lamb stew with grapes, caramelised pears or smoked ham among many others. bit.ly/HelloBenichon2022
Discovering the Bourru Luins, Vaud ‘’A la découverte du Bourru’’, is a tradition in the heart of the Côte vineyard. Winegrowers from Begnins, Luins, Vinzel and Bursins open their cellars to wine lovers. bit.ly/HelloBourru2022 Grape harvest in Lavaux © Switzerland Tourism/ Hans-Peter Siffert
24 September Varen wine festival Varen, Valais
Listen to exquisite classical music in a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover a harmonious mix of culture and gastronomy. bit.ly/HelloLavauxClassic2022 10 October Twanner Räbebeizli/ Grape harvest feast
1 October Désalpe d’Etivaz Etivaz, Vaud Known for its cheese, the Pays d’Enhaut village of Etivaz honours this tradition every year with an entertaining day showcasing local products. bit.ly/HelloEtivaz2022
Romainmôtier, Vaud
24 September Entlebuch Alpine Fest Schüpfheim, Lucerne
Weggis, Luzern The farmers’ association, founded in 1686, celebrates its traditional festival with a procession, games and entertainment. A traditional popular festival where local customs are still very much alive and cared for. bit.ly/HelloWeggis2022
A few minutes from Nyon and Lake Geneva, the village of Saint-Cergue is a gateway to the Jura Vaudois Regional Nature Park. Dominated by the Dôle (1677 m), the fir forests, valleys and clearings offer breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, the Alps and the Jura. bit.ly/HelloStCergue2022
Alpine descents, whether they are called Alpabzug, Désalpe or S-chargiada, are a huge thing in Switzerland. The cows come back from Alpine pastures for the winter and this is cause for celebration. Alpine descent in Spycherberg, canton Bern © Switzerland Tourism/ Marcus Gyger
19 September Sheep fair and désalpe Jaun, Gruyère Lesser known than the alpine festival in Charmey but equally charming, this descent will focus on sheep, not cattle. The fun starts early in the morning and ends in the evening with a traditional dance in the various restaurants of the village. bit.ly/HelloJaun2022
12 – 14 October Autumn fair and cowbell market
18 WHAT’S ON
ALPINE DESCENTS September – November 2022
The Entlebuch UNESCO Biosphere is known as ‘the Wild West’ of Switzerland, thanks to its particular craggy landscape. This Alpine fest takes place in Schüpfheim, a beautiful village part of the UNESCO Biosphere. bit.ly/HelloStSchüpfheim2022
11 - 15 November Traditional Farmers‘ Festival
Also known as ‘Les Sonnailles’, this is a traditional ‘desalpe’, but with (cow) bells on. The cow bell artisans will proudly display their work and you can choose your own. Be well aware that the cow bell is not just a simple bell, it is a symbol of seasonal change, held in high regard all over ThisSwitzerland.isalsoa very good excuse to see the charming village of Romainmôtier, which is a member of the ‘Most beautiful villages in Switzerland’. bit.ly/HelloSonnailles2022
17 September Désalpes Val d’Anniviers, Valais Cattle processions will take place in several villages in the Anniviers Valley. Traditional events, food and musical entertainment are staged to celebrate the cows of the special Herens breed with their beautiful floral adornments as they return to the fold. bit.ly/HelloAnniviers2022
24 September Désalpe in St-Cergue St. Cergue, Jura Vaudois
24 September Désalpe Charmey, Gruyère Charmey’s crowning event of the year, has acquired international renown. Witness the ‘Rindyà’, a quintessential mountain tradition (in local dialect it means giving back the sheep to their owners). bit.ly/HelloCharmey2022
It’s so simple. You choose your new car on our website and configure your subscription in a few easy steps. Your fixed monthly fee includes everything around the car. You can, of course, ask for an offer first - no strings attached.
CARVOLUTIONMOBILITYCAR
Is there a down-payment for the car?
Why is it so great for foreigners living in Switzerland?
Some expats don’t know in advance how long they will stay here, some have short assignments, and others just don’t want to bother with the paperwork.
With us they have low expenses while still having flexibility, convenience and peace of mind.
After the minimum duration has passed,
If you are a foreigner in Switzerland and - like most expats - don’t know how long you’re staying here, getting a car can be challenging. Buying or leasing a car will tie you up in a long contract and renting a car will cost an arm and a leg. Now there’s Carvolution. Léa Miggiano, Carvolution Co-Founder explains why this is the best mobility solution for expats.
How does the subscription work?
‘Everything’ meaning what exactly? Everything is included except fuel or charging, and that means: insurance, taxes, service & maintenance, cantonal registration, tyres, initial highway vignette and a fuel or a charging card for electric cars for discounted refuelling or charging.
FEATURED PARTNER:
You pick the minimum contract duration, whether it’s for 3, 6 or 48 months.
We’re the netflix of cars, no down payment, just your monthly subscription fee. What about the duration of the contract? What if, like most foreigners in Switzerland, I have no idea how long I’ll be here?
MOBILITY20
SUBSCRIPTION
Provided by: Léa Miggiano, Carvolution Co-founder Expats all over Switzerland love Carvolution. Here’s why more and more decide to drive a car on a subscription.
We’re well aware of this and Carvolution is giving people a choice - you can choose how much you drive and your monthly fee is lower if you’re an occasional driver. With us, people can drive a new car affordably, and much easier than buying or leasing. They get everything they need for their car from a single source and save money on top of that. Since fewer and fewer people want to be tied to the same car for several years (regardless of whether they are Swiss or expats), we offer full flexibility. Our customers drive their car for as long as they want. MOBILITY
Enjoy CHF 50 off your new car from Carvolution Living
you can keep your car, change or return it any time with 30 days’ notice. Tell us more about the payment, I see there’s an ‘initial cost’ of 390 CHF. What’s that? Once you book a car, this is what we’ll charge you: a membership-fee for new customers of 390 CHF. We charge it one time only and it covers the registration and the order of your new license plates, as well as 2 monthly fees, which we charge in advance because we don’t require any security deposit. After that, you pay a fixed monthly price and that’s all. How about the paperwork? To get a Carvolution subscription, we’ll need your residence permit, your employment contract and your last salary statement for the credit check. And that’s it, no hassle really. Can my spouse or any other family member or friend drive the car as well? Of course. It is your car and you can choose who you allow at the wheel. There’s only one rule: the driver must have a driver’s license that’s valid in Switzerland.
GET YOUR CARVOLUTION SUBSCRIPTION
LIVING IN STYLE 1717 helloswitzerland.ch/offersGet an all-inclusive car subscription
How do costs for a car subscription compare to leasing or buying a car? We’ve made a rough calculation and taking all costs into account, a car subscription really is more affordable. On our website Carvolution.ch all comparisons are available. What kind of cars do you offer? We have over 70 different models from different brands and types, from small cars to SUVs and electric cars. And what’s also very important is that our cars are top-equipped, we want our customers to feel safe and comfortable.
Why do you think car subscriptions are becoming more and more popular?
Lea Miggiano, Carvolution Co-founder, and her team are here to assist you in finding the most convenient car for your mobility needs.
I think there’s a new way of seeing cars, or a new generation of people who are not willing to invest a lot of time and money in a car they don’t use so often.
Understand the basics about the Swiss education system
Bilingual education As you’ll soon find out, international schools are either monolingual or bilingual. Which brings us to the golden middle ground of bilingual schooling.
THE SWISS SCHOOL SYSTEM EXPLAINED
International school pros & cons
diverse cultures and languages. As a downside, you’ll probably end up in an expat bubble, with no ties to your local environment and you’ll completely miss out experiencing the local culture.
22 FEATURED PARTNER: EDUCAITON
in addition to Swiss public school and private - monolingual - international schools. Let’s quickly review the main pros and cons for each:
Your schooling options in Switzerland You’ve come to live in Switzerland and want to send your children to Swiss school but are not sure how Swiss education system works or which option would work best for you. Or maybe you already live here and have to move, which means changing canton, maybe even language, and you find the new school is apparently nothing like the previous one. What to do? Bilingual education is one option you might have,
Bilingual schooling has numerous cognitive advantages, but also cultural
Provided by: Packimpex
Your first thought, especially if you receive education support from your employer, will be do send your kids to an international school, which offers a faster transition experience, and an almost immediate friend and support network, plus a huge range of
Private or public? Monolingual or bilingual? Parents relocating with kids have so many options to consider. Let’s shed some light on the best options for expat parents.
EDUCATION
23 LIVING IN STYLE helloswitzerland.ch/offersGet expert education advice Get more info on education from Packimpex Living EDUCATION
Choosing the right school is like choosing a flavor of ice cream
Do you need support choosing the right school for your children?
Our schooling experts are here for you. Book 1 hour of advisory time with a schooling and daycare specialist worth CHF 150 and get answers to all your questions on education and schooling in Switzerland. Packimpex education experts save you time and money Instead of putting in hours of research on your own, why not speak to a Swiss schooling expert and get all the information you need, without worrying that it’s outdated or biased?
The Schooling Support call is a turnkey, 100% personalised offer for parents who know that the success of their children starts with the right education. Why choose Packimpex for Schooling Support? Packimpex is Switzerland’s relocation market leader and the most awarded relocation company. With 45 years’ experience in relocation, in the last 10 years alone, they have helped over 20,000 customers make Switzerland their home. Over 60 of the Top 100 Swiss companies entrust Packimpex with their key executives’ move – with all that it entails. We know that relocating to a new country is more than moving your belongings. Finding the perfect school for your children is one of the main concerns of newly arrived expats.
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No one ice cream flavor is better than another but most people have a favorite that they will defend adamantly as “the best”. The right school for you and your child will depend on your personal preferences and goals. Luckily, the overall quality of these schools is very high, so be encouraged, not intimidated. Make your own judgments about schools by visiting them and considering the special needs of your family. No one else can make the decision better than you.
The right school is out there. It will balance between your child’s personality, interests, and specific learning needs, your family history, your family goals for the future, and your financial situation. Like a puzzle, you need to identify the pieces and put your picture together. Having the pieces in the right places will make your experience in Switzerland, and your child’s future, even more spectacular.
How about home schooling? Home schooling in Switzerland is not that popular: about 0.3% young people are home-schooled, compared to 3.3% in the US. This form of schooling is only legally possible in a few Swiss cantons.
Just like you, Packimpex experts will put your child’s education first! Plus, with this call, you’ll make sure that you don’t miss any registration deadlines.
At Packimpex, we take full advantage of our local knowledge to help you find more than a home: we can help your children find the perfect school to help them thrive for the duration of your stay in Switzerland, whether it’s for a few months or
Packimpexforever.offers the full range of destination services such as arrival, orientation, housing search, immigration, and also education support. Mauro Cecchi and his team will provide expert schooling and education consultation adapted for your region so you can choose the best form of education and the best school for your children.
Public schooling In Switzerland, public school is an excellent choice, as there is language support available for foreign children, the curriculum is of great quality and it’s free. If you’re planning to stay longterm in Switzerland, public school is definitely the right way to go to fully learn the local languages and experience the local culture. As downsides, the school schedule does not favor full-time working parents and after-school fees are not cheap. Also, if you’ve just landed in Switzerland and your kids don’t speak a word of German or French, the language barrier will isolate and frustrate them.
23 ones, as you’ll be much more connected to the local culture, while still having a community of expats.
No state subsidies Very different from the UK or France, Switzerland’s health care system is not subsidized by the state. Nor is it a combination of state subsidies and private insurance, as in Germany. The Swiss health care system resembles more the US health care system, where contributions are entirely private.
It can certainly be complicated to choose the best health insurance as an expat, especially when you’re not 100% fluent in the language of the canton you live in. Our partner, SWICA makes it easier for you. Thanks to innovative telemedicine options, online tools that do away with bureaucracy and English support so you won’t feel lost trying to understand legal terms in a foreign language, SWICA is one of the best health insurers in Switzerland.
Individuals pay for health insurance If you’re coming from the UK, then the fact that you’re entirely responsible for choosing and paying for your health insurance will be a definite surprise. On the plus side though, you do not have to finance all health costs by yourself, thanks to the franchise system.
Any foreigner in Switzerland, especially those coming from EU countries, goes through a slight cultural - and financialshock once they understand the Swiss insurance model and see its hefty fees.
How does the franchise system work?
Let’s take a closer look at why that happens.
HEALTH INSURANCE IN SWITZERLAND
The type of insurance model you choose will determine whether you are free to choose your doctor at any point or limit your choice of medical provider to a pool of doctors determined by the insurance Ifcompany.youarechoosing,
To be able to have access to health care in Switzerland, you’ll pay monthly insurance premiums and also part of the cost of medical treatment or any kind of medical interventions. You will contribute to these costs, together with your health insurer. All your medical invoices must go to your insurer. You will have to pay all of them until you reach your franchise limit. After that limit, it is the insurer who handles the costs. Your share of the payments depends on the type of coverage you have.
The various insurance models
We take a look at the main differences in terms of health insurance system between Switzerland and other European countries.
24 LIVINGEDUCATIONINSTYLE LIVING IN helloswitzerland.ch/offersRequest a quote from SWICA Get advice from the best health insurer in Switzerland FEATURED PARTNER: HEALTH INSURANCE
Main differences versus other countries in Europe
Another difference that boggles the minds of most Europeans is the numerous insurance models. What are the advantages or disadvantages between the GP or the Telmed model? What is the HMO model? Which one could work better for you?
for instance a GP Model, you can save money on the premium side, but must respect the rules combined with the model.
Provided by: SWICA SWICA has achieved top rankings in health insurance comparisons for over 10 years. As a top Swiss health insurer with outstanding customer satisfaction, SWICA offers generous contributions for health promotion and preventive healthcare, low co-payments, and equal consideration of conventional and complementary medicine. GET THE BEST HEALTH INSURANCELiving
WHY OTHER THINGS CAN WAIT ONCE IN A WHILE? Relaxing regularly and enjoying the moment promotes your wellbeing. That’s something we’re happy to be part of, for example with health promotion and prevention contributions towards courses, activities and precautionary check-ups. Learn more by calling 0800 80 90 80 or visiting swica.ch/relax
26 Zurich International School o ers children aged 3 to 18 a transformative education. New state-of-the-art Secondary Campus. Bilingual pathway for children aged 3 to 8.
Outstanding. EXCEPTIONALLY DIFFERENT. SURPRISINGLY VERSATILE. WE MAKE TIME STAND STILL FOR YOU. AT ART DECO HOTEL MONTANA. ART DECO HOTEL MONTANA | CH-6006 Lucerne | T +41 41 419 00 00 | www.hotel-montana.ch
FEATURED PARTNER: EDUCATION
Ten years ago, SIS Swiss International School RotkreuzZug opened its doors. Several buildings at a privileged location are home to the school, where children and teenagers have been experiencing immersive bilingual education from kindergarten through to secondary school. The Opening In August 2012, SIS Rotkreuz-Zug opened its doors with 29 students and a small group of teachers. The 1926 renovated building is now home to our kindergarten children, who benefit from two classrooms and a music, dance and exploration activity space as well as their own playground.
Celebrating
Andrea Furgler is the Group CEO of SIS Swiss International Schools Group. SIS operates 16 bilingual, private day schools in Switzerland, Germany and Brazil with more than 3,800 students attending classes from kindergarten through to college. GET KNOWTOSIS
The school celebrated its ten-year anniversary with a project week that included activities for the children such as creating banners to chart the school’s history, interviewing present and past community members and creating time capsules that have been buried in the school garden to be opened in ten years’ time. We enjoyed marking our ten-year anniversary at our yearly summer party, during which we reflected together on the success of the school and looked ahead
Find out the benefits of bilingual education Living
to future prosperity for all our students. Come and pay us a visit to see for yourself what we have to offer.
SIS SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
28 helloswitzerland.ch/offersUnderstand the Swiss school system
Building on Success Over the past ten years, the school has built on solid foundations and has a well-earned, strong reputation for both the academic and personal success of its bilingual students. This has meant steady growth to today’s 120 students. The modern building on the Suurstoffi Estate completes the set of three school buildings. Here, the school has its primary and secondary departments which boast their own basketball/football pitch, a library and computer suite, and purpose-built art, music and science rooms. As a full day school, we offer before and after-school care, as well as holiday clubs, lunch service and a wide array of after-school clubs. We enjoy close ties to the families and links are made to the wider community through local visits, sports days and donations to the elderly people’s home.
Provided by: Andrea Furgler, CEO of SIS Swiss International Schools Group Ten Years at SIS Rotkreuz-Zug
Looking Backwards and Forwards
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Learn how from a Helvetia insurance expert
Mortgage financing is divided into a first mortgage and a second mortgage. The first mortgage can cover up to a maximum of 66% of the purchase price. If you need more financing, then you’ll need to take out a second mortgage.
First of all, can foreigners buy property in Switzerland?
The bank finances a maximum of 80% of the market value of the property. You have to contribute at least 20% of the purchase price. At least half of that amount must be your own funds and not taken from your employee benefits insurance.
If you have a valid residence B permit, you may acquire property or an existing building for your own use. If you have a C permit for Switzerland, you may buy more than one plot of land for residential use or real estate of any kind without special authorization.
How do mortgages work in Switzerland?
Provided by: Helvetia
FINANCIAL ADVICE30
Are you planning to buy property in Switzerland? For most foreigners living here, this is a painful topic. The high property purchase price, the complex mortgage system, the limited availability – and your list of hurdles doesn’t stop here. Helvetia sheds some light on the topic and adds some expert tips.
The second mortgage must be repaid in regular instalments over a maximum of 15 years before you reach the age of 65.
PLAN, SAVE & BUY PROPERTY IN SWITZERLAND
Affordability is quite a simple calculation of your income versus the property costs.
• Get a detailed consultation on the Swiss Pension and Social Security System and how to save for old age, including 3rd pillar pension system, savings, and survivor income protection
• Get an explanation of how mortgages work in Switzerland and understand the impact of property purchase on pension, savings and tax burden, including how you can reduce your tax burden by property purchase
You’ll be happy to know that the list is generous. The funds you are allowed to use for your 20% can mean savings and securities holdings, pension capital, life insurance, gifts, or inheritance advancements. Presumably, the most significant contribution, will come from your Pillar 2 pension. But then - how can you make sure you still have a decent pension afterwards? What is affordability and how is it calculated?
In order to guarantee affordability, your total living expenses (mortgage interest, repayments, maintenance, and ancillary costs) should not exceed one-third of your gross income. Many financial institutions use a theoretical rate of 5% to calculate the mortgage interest to ensure that the mortgage would still be affordable if interest rates were to rise.
When you choose Helvetia, you’ll enjoy excellent support and documentation in English, in-depth knowledge of expat needs, consultancy on all insurance types, and an excellent claims service.
Learn how to plan, save & buy property with this free consultation If you’re looking for guidance and advice before you buy property in Switzerland, then this free consultation from Helvetia is for you. A Helvetia insurance expert will explain in detail everything about mortgages and how to save to buy, answering all your questions.
FINANCIAL ADVICE helloswitzerland.ch/offersRequest a free consultation Learn from
Helvetia is Hello Switzerland’s partner of choice for all insurance related issues. Helvetia’s expert advisers deal with international professionals on a regular basis regarding property searches, financing, protection and much more. On the issue of property financing, Helvetia works closely with a leading specialist for mortgages and real estate in YouSwitzerland.willappreciate their personal touch and high level of experience in dealing with the most common issues that international residents encounter in Switzerland.
Do you know which funds to use for your 20% contribution?
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• Review your health insurance situation and get a better understanding of additional coverage Why work with Helvetia?
Yearly maintenance and ancillary costs such as utilities, insurance, and minor repairs, are then added to this at a general annual rate of 1% of the market value.
how to plan, save & buy property Living 31
Helvetia is well-known in Switzerland for their ultra-fast claim response. Most claims are usually covered within 48 hours, which is a great relief if you are in a tricky situation or far from home.
What you’ll learn in this free consultation: • Understand how to save towards property purchase as well as how to leverage your pension savings or insurance policies to buy property in Switzerland
SPECIALIZED INSURANCE MARCUSNICOLA Helvetia
• Check for gaps in your insurance coverage in case your life circumstances have changed and update insurance policies accordingly
Handan Adnan and Nicola Marcus are part of the experienced team of advisors at Helvetia Insurance, covering the entire Switzerland. They specialize in specific savings plans (such as third pillar - unit linked plans, fund accounts or income protection) and on the pension needs of newcomers to Switzerland. In addition to personal retirement planning, they offer comprehensive advice and support in a variety of areas connected to a move to HelvetiaSwitzerland.isatop Swiss insurance company providing reliable coverage for nearly 1.3 million residents in Switzerland. They are known as a trustworthy, reliable and innovative insurance provider.
As a basic rule to estimate affordability, the cost of the property should not exceed one third of the borrower’s gross income. Let’s see what that means more in detail.
• Review your investments, tax benefits, inheritance situation, pension savings options with pillars 3a and 3b, funds account, and mortgage
