Expat Essentials
Moving to Switzerland? Here’s What You Need to Know About Taxes
Jan 31, 2025
💡 The basics of Swiss taxation
Switzerland’s tax system is decentralized: you pay taxes to three levels — federal, cantonal, and communal. The rates vary depending on your income, marital status, and where you live.
Expats often find that their tax situation changes once they become residents, especially if they previously had tax at source (withheld by their employer).
✅ What you’ll need as an expat
1. Your residence permit and work contract
These determine whether your income is taxed at source or through an annual declaration.
2. Bank and salary documents
Your salary certificate and Swiss bank statements will be essential for your declaration.
3. Foreign assets
You must declare global assets (bank accounts, real estate, investments), even if held abroad.
4. Health insurance and pension information
Include details of your health coverage and Pillar 3a contributions if applicable.
💬 Pro tip for newcomers
If you’re filing for the first time, use FileTax’s guided process in English. It adapts to your canton and ensures nothing important gets lost in translation.
💡 The basics of Swiss taxation
Switzerland’s tax system is decentralized: you pay taxes to three levels — federal, cantonal, and communal. The rates vary depending on your income, marital status, and where you live.
Expats often find that their tax situation changes once they become residents, especially if they previously had tax at source (withheld by their employer).
✅ What you’ll need as an expat
1. Your residence permit and work contract
These determine whether your income is taxed at source or through an annual declaration.
2. Bank and salary documents
Your salary certificate and Swiss bank statements will be essential for your declaration.
3. Foreign assets
You must declare global assets (bank accounts, real estate, investments), even if held abroad.
4. Health insurance and pension information
Include details of your health coverage and Pillar 3a contributions if applicable.
💬 Pro tip for newcomers
If you’re filing for the first time, use FileTax’s guided process in English. It adapts to your canton and ensures nothing important gets lost in translation.
