Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world, pretty much has been a dream destination to live and to do business, for very wealthy individuals. Switzerland is very expensive country to live and on average costs 10,000 swiss francs (CHF) monthly to live comfortably in Geneva, Zurich or Bern. Switzerland is also Schengen member state with freedom of movement. No golden visa scheme exists in Switzerland.
Foreign nationals (outside EU) can apply for swiss residency through Swiss company setup. The requirements of the Swiss Authorities are very high and employing people is usually one of the requirements, while the business turnover has to be atleast 1 Million Swiss Francs or more. No requirement to live or stay in Switzerland for business travelers after acquiring swiss residence permit for business activity.
Buying a property for yourself as a resident depends on the canton. Switzerland is very strict for non EU nationals and each canton decides if they allow you to buy a residential property. Just buying a property alone will not qualify you for “Swiss residency”. The real estate prices are seeing big jumps in Switzerland, costing CHF 1 million upwards.
If you plan to retire in Switzerland, you can apply for residence permit in Switzerland in the canton of your choice. You have to pay CHF 500,000 as lump sum tax to the cantonal authorities every year, plus living expenses (CHF 5000 to CHF 10,000 month). Thus it will cost you about CHF 600,000 very year. It is just tax, not even an investment. Real estate costs on top of it.
All in all, you should expect about CHF 1 million plus, if you think about Switzerland.
You will get Swiss permanent settlement permit (PR) after 10 years of un-interrupted living. Swiss citizenship possible after 12 years of uninterrupted living in Switzerland.
Swiss passport is highly respected worldwide, and regarded most esteemed passport in the world. According to the Henley & Partners, visa restrictions index published in 2016, Swiss passport is ranked 6th in the world, with visa free access to 172 countries in the world.
We assist wealthy investors in acquiring residency in Switzerland and other European countries. You may contact us for private consultation or for citizenship solutions through our website.
