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Switzerland

Bern · German / French / Italian

The world's most expensive country is also among its most rewarding — stunning Alps, elite financial system, low crime, and extraordinary quality of life.

Cost of living
$1800/mo
Rent (1-bed)
$2100/mo
Income tax
11%
Currency
CHF (Swiss Franc)
Safety
9
Internet
200 Mbps
Quality of Life
10
Pros
  • Top 3 highest quality of life globally
  • Low effective tax rates (lump-sum option)
  • World-class banking and privacy
  • Safe and clean
  • Stunning Alpine nature
  • High salaries
Cons
  • −Extremely high cost of living
  • −Bureaucracy for permits
  • −Language varies by region
  • −Difficult to obtain work permits
  • −Not in EU (Schengen-associate)
Schengen-area 90-dayL Permit (short-term work)B Permit (residence)C Permit (settlement)Lump-sum taxation
✈️ Pre-departure checklist
  • ✅Visa-free entry: up to 90 days — no visa needed
  • 🏥Get health insurance (~$30–80/mo premium; coverage limit from $50,000)
  • 💳Notify your bank; get a no-foreign-fee card (Wise, Revolut)
  • 📱Get a local SIM on arrival (avg internet 200 Mbps)
  • 🏠Book accommodation for first 3–7 days (easier to find long-term rental on the ground)
  • 📄Make copies of passport, insurance, bookings — store in cloud & email to yourself
  • 💰Bring some CHF (Swiss Franc) cash for the first few days

City data coming soon