Relocating to Zurich: My experience moving from Germany and essential tips for newcomers

Relocating to a new city, especially one as renowned as Zurich, is both an exciting and daunting experience. In this blog article, I’ll share my journey of moving to Switzerland from Germany, the challenges I faced, and the many reasons I’ve come to love this vibrant city! It’s an excellent read for anyone doing the same, packed with links, advice, and tips for moving to Zurich.

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The relocation process

Before getting started in Zurich, I had my reservations. It’s often ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but as I discovered, the salaries are typically higher and balance out the cost of living.

Another concern was the visa process, especially as a non-EU passport holder. Thankfully for me, GetYourGuide provided full support throughout the process and handled most of the paperwork. This made for a smooth transition, and once my work permit was approved, I was ready to start my journey. The team in Zurich welcomed me warmly, and I felt included from day one. 

Personal and professional growth opportunities

Making connections was one of the biggest concerns in Zurich. However, I was positively surprised. The people were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and if you speak German or Italian, even better! However, most people try their best to communicate, which makes it much easier for newcomers.

Relocating to Zurich is not just about a new address; it’s a step towards both personal and professional growth. Working in a customer-facing team has opened up new perspectives and learning opportunities, providing a refreshing and rewarding change after three years in Berlin on a platform team.

Experiencing Zurich’s unique culture

The city's culture is a beautiful mix of Italian, German, and French influences. Despite being an expat, I've felt a strong sense of community in Zurich.

One of the biggest advantages of living in Zurich is its incredible work-life balance. The shorter commute and punctual trains make planning easier and reduce stress. Compared to Berlin, my time in Zurich feels less rushed, and the slower pace allows for longer breaks and leisurely walks by the lake. It’s a refreshing change that has positively impacted my overall well-being.

Zurich has some unique traditions. For instance, the half-day holidays are a quirky but welcome break. One of my favorite events is the Zurich Böögg burning, which marks the start of summer. It’s a fascinating tradition that brings the community together.

Hot tip: If you’re a foodie, there’s a lot to choose from in the city, with different cuisines from all over the world. One of my favorite spots is a Brazilian restaurant called Oficina dos Sabores. It’s open on Sundays, making it the perfect place for comfort food on a cloudy weekend. It reminds me of home and is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Brazilian cuisine! Plus, you’ll find the best Açai in town at Oakberry.

Essential relocation resources

It helps to be prepared before making a big move like this. Here are a few places to find all the information you need to get you started on your relocation journey.

• The initial checklist: Before you do anything, check out the Comparis checklist before moving to Zurich. You can find advice for anything, from finding housing to insurance, permits, regulations, and more.
• Financial tips, taxes, and more: Read ’The Poor Swiss’. It’s a great resource for all things money-related and outlines the process of taxes and investments.
• Housing: Be prepared with all necessary documents (e.g., work contract, Schufa, insurance) and be flexible in your search. It’s often easier to find a temporary place first and then move to a more permanent home later. ImmoScout24 and FlatFox were very effective for finding places to live, and you can get your home and contents insurance here.
• Pets: One of the biggest challenges I faced was bringing my dog, Luna, to Zurich. The customs requirements were tricky, but the authorities were very responsive and helpful via email. You can learn more about general pet policy here, and check the correct process for your pet here.
• Health insurance: I found this guide to health insurance in Zurich super helpful before going, and you can compare different options here.
• Customs and relocation of your belongings: Find out everything you need to know about customs in Zurich and customs offices here.
• Tech industry: While Zurich’s tech scene is smaller than hubs like Berlin or Amsterdam, it offers excellent work-life balance and competitive salaries.
• Language: Learning German up to B1/B2 level is helpful, but you can get by with English in most situations. Swiss German is a different challenge and not essential unless you’re deeply integrated with native speakers or living in the countryside in a small village.

Finally, would I recommend Zurich?

Absolutely! After eight years in Europe, I can confidently say Zurich is one of the best places to live. It perfectly balances health, security, culture, salary, and work-life balance. The tech scene may be smaller, but with competitive salaries and the overall quality of life here, it is unmatched.

Relocating to Zurich has been an incredible journey filled with growth, new experiences, and a deeper appreciation for life. If you’re considering moving, I hope my insights help you navigate the process and make the most of your time in this wonderful city.

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