What if I miss the 14-day registration deadline?

You may be fined CHF 100–500 depending on the canton. Register as soon as possible — most offices are understanding about short delays.

Do I need to register if I'm only staying temporarily?

If you stay longer than 3 months or work in Switzerland, you must register. Short tourist visits don't require registration.

No, you must register in person at the Einwohnerkontrolle. Some larger companies help coordinate, but the legal obligation is yours.

Written by HowToSwiss EditorialReviewed March 2025

Verified · Last updated March 2025

6 min readCHF 20–50Deadline: 14 days after arrivalLast verified: March 2025REQUIRED

14 days after arrival. Missing this deadline can lead to fines or delays in your permit.

Every person living in Switzerland must register with their local municipality (Gemeinde / Commune / Comune) within 14 days of arrival.

1
Find your Gemeinde office
Search '[your town] Einwohnerkontrolle' or 'Contrôle des habitants'. Most require an in-person appointment.
2
Book an appointment online
Slots fill up fast in Zurich and Geneva. Book the moment your rental contract is signed.
3
Bring all required documents
Passport, rental contract, employment contract or admission letter, marriage/birth certificates, passport photos, and arrival declaration form.
4
Pay the registration fee
CHF 20–50 depending on canton. Card or cash. You'll receive a confirmation slip the same day.
5
Wait for your residence permit
Your permit (L/B/C) arrives by post in 2–8 weeks. The slip is enough to open a bank account in the meantime.

Build your free Swiss relocation checklist — tailored to your canton, with deadlines and links. No signup.

Missing the 14-day deadline can result in a fine of CHF 100–500.

If you move within Switzerland, you must re-register at the new Gemeinde within 14 days.

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