Living and working in Switzerland: Your move made easy with KOCH Moving Logistics

Switzerland fascinates with an impressive blend of breathtaking nature, economic strength and high quality of life. For many emigrants, moving to Switzerland becomes an exciting career step – and KOCH Moving Logistics stands by your side as a reliable partner. Discover what makes living and working in Switzerland so special.

Switzerland ranks among the wealthiest countries in Europe and offers German skilled professionals attractive career opportunities, high wages and an exceptional quality of life. No wonder Switzerland is one of the most popular emigration destinations for Germans – every year, over 20,000 Germans take the step to the Alpine republic. Thanks to the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons between the EU and Switzerland, access to the Swiss labour market is significantly easier for Germans.

The Swiss labour market is stable, and the unemployment rate remains at a low international level of 2.8%. However, initial signs of cooling are appearing – the number of job vacancies in 2025 fell by 5.6% compared to the previous year. Experts in IT, engineering, healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry are particularly in demand. Working in Switzerland not only offers attractive salaries but also a work environment that values innovation and precision. The median salary is currently around 6,800 CHF per month – German income on average reaches only about 43% of that.

Swiss work culture is characterised by strict punctuality (five minutes early is considered on time), flat hierarchies with quick use of the informal "Du", and a high regard for initiative and direct, factual communication. At the same time, great importance is placed on a healthy work‑life balance – weekends and leisure time are consistently used for family, hobbies and nature, and the statutory holiday entitlement is at least four weeks (five weeks for employees under 20). This combination of professionalism and quality of life – where the work environment (more important than salary for 68% of employees) and flexibility are key – makes Switzerland particularly attractive for international skilled professionals.

Swiss labour law differs from German law in several key respects. The statutory probation period is generally one month, can be extended in writing to a maximum of three months, and during this period a notice period of only seven days applies. Thereafter, ordinary notice periods depend on length of service: one month during the first year, two months from the second to the ninth year, and three months from the tenth year onwards, in each case to the end of the month. The maximum weekly working time is 45 hours for office and industrial staff, and 50 hours for other employees, although flexible working time models are common in many sectors. Women are entitled to 14 weeks of statutory maternity leave, and fathers are entitled to two weeks of paternity leave.

Statutory holiday entitlement is at least 4 weeks per year (5 weeks for employees under 20). Weekly working hours are usually between 40 and 44 hours. For office staff and employees in industrial companies, the maximum working time is 45 hours per week; for other employees, 50 hours.

Switzerland is a small country with great cultural diversity. Four national languages (German, French, Italian and Romansh) shape the regions and their traditions. From Alemannic customs in the north‑east to the Mediterranean flair of Ticino – you will encounter unique festivals, cuisines and ways of life everywhere. Well‑known traditions include the Sechseläuten spring parade in Zurich, the , Fasnacht in Basel or the the Alpabfahrt (descent of decorated cows) in autumn. At the same time, Switzerland is a haven of modernity: numerous museums, music festivals (such as the Montreux Jazz Festival) and a vibrant art scene make the country culturally highly attractive for emigrants.

Switzerland offers a high quality of life, characterised by safety, cleanliness and an efficient public transport system. The crime rate is low, and cities are known for their well‑kept streets and parks. However, the cost of living in Switzerland is among the highest in the world::

 

– RENT: A 3‑room apartment in Zurich costs an average of 2,500 to 3,500 CHF per month.

– Groceries: Prices are about 20–30% higher than in Germany.

– Health insurance: Compulsory basic insurance costs between 300 and 600 CHF per month, depending on the canton, age and deductible.

 

Nevertheless, there is often more net left from gross: the average gross household income in Switzerland is 9,951 CHF, compared to around 4,900 € in Germany. The high quality of life, safety, clean environment and excellent infrastructure more than compensate for the higher cost of living for many emigrants.

Swiss work culture is shaped by precision, reliability and direct communication. Punctuality is paramount, and promises are taken very seriously. Compared to Germany, hierarchical distance is often smaller – using the informal "Du" with superiors is quickly possible. At the same time, a clear separation between professional and private life is valued: overtime is the exception, and leisure time (e.g., for hiking, family or clubs) has high priority. Teamwork is consensus‑oriented; decisions are pragmatic and results‑driven. International skilled professionals experience a respectful, performance‑oriented environment with many opportunities for involvement.

The Swiss transport system is considered one of the best in the world. The dense network of trains, buses, trams and ships is perfectly timed – the famous Swiss punctuality applies here too. With the Generalabonnement (GA) , you can use the entire public transport network. Particularly impressive are the panoramic routes through the Alps, such as the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express. Road transport is also well developed, but motorway vignettes are mandatory. Those living in a Swiss city can usually manage without a car – saving costs and protecting the environment.

Living in Switzerland can vary greatly depending on city and canton. From modern apartments in metropolises such as Zurich, Geneva or Basel to rural single‑family homes in the mountains, there are numerous options. Understanding Swiss housing culture – particularly the compulsory household contents and liability insurance as well as the three‑month notice period – can help you settle in more quickly and enjoy your new home..

KOCH Moving Logistics supports you with your move to Switzerland with comprehensive services tailored to your needs. From planning to execution, our team ensures that your move runs smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: your new life and work in Switzerland.

• Personal advice: Individual solutions for your move.
• Logistics expertise: Efficient planning and implementation.
• Local network: Support with integration in China.

KOCH Umzugslogistik not only offers standardized moving services, but also places special emphasis on personal advice and tailor-made solutions. Our experts are on hand at every stage of the moving process to ensure that all your needs are met. We help you to quickly find your feet in your new surroundings and offer support with administrative matters, such as registering with authorities and opening a bank account.

Experience the smooth transition to your new adventure with the comprehensive service of KOCH Moving Logistics. Whether it's packing your belongings or organising your new home, we are here for you. Contact us and start your move to Switzerland today!