Our tips for students: A stress-free start to the semester in Switzerland

You sit at your computer, google frantically and ask yourself: “What do I need to consider before I start studying in Switzerland?” Your head is buzzing with questions: Where to live? What to take with me? How do I organize all this stuff? There's a lot of excitement, but don't worry - you've come to the right place. We've put together the most important tips for starting your studies in Switzerland.

The student survival guide

Right of residence: No stress with the visa

Let's start with the most important thing: your right of residence in Switzerland. Are you an EU/EFTA citizen? Then it's relatively easy. All you need to do is register with the municipality and you're ready to go. For everyone else: plan early! Applying for your visa can take some time, so it's best to start the process early. As soon as you arrive in Switzerland, the clock is ticking: you must register with the cantonal migration authority within 14 days. Pack all the necessary documents - this will save you a second visit and a lot of stress

Further information on student visas and residence permits can be found on the official website of the State Secretariat for Migration.

Health comes first: Health insurance for students in Switzerland

Health is a top priority in Switzerland and health insurance is compulsory. Make sure you check whether your existing insurance is recognized here. If not, you should be prepared for some costs. But don't panic! Find out about special student discounts - they can save you a lot of money. Plan these expenses into your budget right from the start, because you shouldn't make any compromises when it comes to your health.

Find out about the various insurance options for students.

Swiss bank account for students

A Swiss bank account is the key to a smooth everyday life in your new home. Whether paying rent, shopping or enjoying student life - everything is easier with a local account. To open an account, you will usually need your passport, residence permit and confirmation of enrollment. It's best to take all the documents with you to the bank so that nothing stands in the way of your financial start.

Registration with the municipality

You will soon realize that Switzerland appreciates order. You must register with your municipality of residence within 14 days of your arrival. Sounds bureaucratic? It is. But don't worry, with the right documents the registration is done quickly. You will need your passport, residence permit and tenancy agreement.

Learn the language: your key to integration

Switzerland is a linguistic paradise with no fewer than four national languages. Depending on where you study, German, French or Italian may be your main language. Many universities offer language courses - take advantage of this opportunity! Language skills will not only help you in everyday life, but also in making new contacts. Who knows, you might even make new friends for life.

You can find language courses at your university.

Getting around Switzerland: use public transport

Switzerland is known for its excellent public transport. As a student, you can benefit from this in particular. Enquire about special student rates. Subscriptions such as the “Swisspass” or the “GA” can save you a lot of money. The added bonus: You can explore the whole country with it! From picturesque mountain villages to vibrant cities - Switzerland is at your feet.

Information on discounted GA travelcard for anyone under 25.

Part-time job? What you need to know

Many students want to work alongside their studies, either to gain experience or to supplement their bank account. As an EU/EFTA citizen, you have free rein here. Certain restrictions apply to everyone else: A maximum of 15 hours per week is permitted and you need a work permit. It is best to ask your university about the exact regulations. They will certainly be able to help you and may even have job offers specifically for students.

Detailed information on the legal framework for student jobs.

Integration made easy: Take advantage of university offers

Your university is not just a place to study, but also your base for social contacts. Most universities offer great opportunities especially for international students. “Buddy" programs or introductory events are perfect for making friends and getting to know Swiss culture. It is the ideal opportunity to make friends and settle into your new surroundings.

You can find more useful information and tips from students for students at students.ch.

Plan smart, start relaxed: your to-do list

Get started early: The timetable

The key to a stress-free start is good preparation. Start preparing at least one month before the semester starts. Make detailed lists: what do you absolutely have to take with you, what can stay at home? Find out about your new accommodation and the space available before you start packing. The better you plan, the less stress you will have later.

Finding accommodation in Switzerland

One thing's for sure: finding an apartment in the big Swiss cities can be a real challenge. Rents are often expensive, especially in hotspots like Zurich, Geneva or Basel. It can take weeks or even months to find something affordable. But don't get discouraged! Use all available channels: Search online portals, contact student unions and activate your network. Stay flexible - shared flats or suburbs can also be great options and give you the chance to meet new people.

Popular platforms for shared flats and student accommodation are wgzimmer.ch, woko.ch and juwo.ch.

Moving tips for students: Packing like a pro

How you pack your things depends of course on how you organize your move. You can rent a car and drop it off in Switzerland - this is practical for larger quantities. Or you can decide to send your belongings to your new address by post. This is particularly practical if you plan to buy most of your things in Switzerland. Whichever option you choose, here are our ultimate packing tips:

• Distribute heavy items into small boxes and light items into large boxes. This makes carrying easier and prevents boxes from becoming too heavy.
• Label all boxes clearly so that you can find your things when you are looking for them.
• Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves a lot of space and prevents annoying creases.
• Use vacuum bags for bedding and winter clothes. This saves an enormous amount of space and keeps your clothes dry.
• Wrap fragile items in towels or T-shirts - this way you kill two birds with one stone and save on packaging material.

Insurance cover: household and liability insurance

It may not be the most exciting topic, but make sure you take out household contents insurance for your valuables. Check whether expensive devices such as laptops need to be insured separately. In the event of a claim, you'll be glad you're insured. It will save you a lot of extra stress during your studies and you can concentrate fully on your education.

You will rock this!

With these tips, you'll be well prepared for your start in Swiss student life. Stay open to new experiences, don't be too hard on yourself and enjoy the time - it flies by faster than you think. If you need flexible storage solutions that fit in perfectly with your student life - placeB is there for you. Whether your apartment search is taking longer or your new digs are just too small, we have the extra storage space you need. In university cities like Zürich, Bern, Winterthur, Lucerne and Basel you'll find our storage units right in the city center.

We wish you a great start to your studies in Switzerland. You can do it!