Houses in Switzerland
The Swiss real estate market is highly regulated and although foreigners are allowed to purchase properties here, the regulations vary from Canton to Canton. Foreigners who do want to buy their dream home or chalet in Switzerland will have to obtain one of the residence permits that allows them to purchase property in Switzerland.
Foreigners allowed to buy properties in Switzerland
Foreigners who can
buy a property in Switzerland are EU or EFTA national who hold a
Swiss residence permit, holders of C Permits, B Permit holders. Property purchase is allowed for B Permit holders but only or residential purposes, not for rent or sale.
Other individuals, such as non-resident foreigners, foreign residents without a
Swiss work permit or workers who have seasonal work permit or short term work permits may not be allowed to
purchase a property in Switzerland or may need to apply for a purchase licence.
Some restrictions can apply, according to the Canton, to the number of properties that can be bought per foreign family and also regarding the size of the property. Some Cantons may even restrict the amount of time after which the property can be sold again.
The property purchase procedure in Switzerland
Foreigners who want to buy a house in Switzerland need to request the help of a Notary. The purchase procedure is straightforward and the Notary will act on behalf both parties: the seller and the buyer. He will also draw up the deeds and documents needed to conclude the purchase agreement. In most cases, a preliminary purchase agreement is signed and a deposit is made (usually 10% of the purchase price).
Individuals who want to
buy a house in Switzerland need to pay the real estate transfer tax, the registration fee, the notary fees and the real estate agent’s fee. Please
contact our company incorporation specialists if you are interested in working with a
real estate agent in Switzerland. We can help you avoid any legal schemes and purchase the desired property.