Buying a First Home in Switzerland: What to Know if You're a Foreign Resident

1. Can a foreign citizen buy a house in Switzerland?

Yes, but with some limitations set forth in the Federal Law on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad (LAFE) . Generally speaking:

• citizens residing in Switzerland (with a B or C permit) can freely purchase a first home or even more properties

• Non -residents (without a residence permit) can only purchase properties intended for holiday homes or second homes, in certain tourist areas and subject to restrictions on size and intended use.

In Ticino, it is still possible to purchase second homes with limited housing availability, thanks to less restrictive regulations than in other Swiss regions.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a residence permit?

To be able to freely purchase your first home as a resident, you must obtain a B or C permit. The conditions vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay, but in general:

• A valid reason for residence is required: work (work contract in Switzerland, even fixed-term), study, family reunification, retirement

Proof of financial availability is required and it is mandatory to take out health insurance with a Swiss insurance company

• It is essential to demonstrate a real intention to live in Switzerland and not just to invest.

Vella Real Estate, in collaboration with Vella Tax Advisor , can assist you with all the necessary procedures for obtaining the permit and related tax management.

3. Documents and procedures for purchasing a house

• Verification of legal requirements: residence and permits

• Cantonal authorization (for non-domiciled foreigners)

• Property search and selection: primary, secondary, holiday with a real estate trustee

• Main documents required: valid identity document, residence permit B or C

• Financing: employment contract or income statement, recent bank statements, tax data and solvency certificates

• Preliminary sales contract drawn up by a notary and confirmatory deposit

• Notarial deed and registration: signature before the notary, payment of the remaining price, registration of the deed in the Land Registry, payment of taxes and fees (notarial, transfer and registration)

• Post-purchase: Mandatory insurance

4. Financing and mortgages for non-residents

If you are not a resident of Switzerland, you may still be able to access local financing, but:

with stricter conditions than those who permanently reside in Switzerland. Swiss banks are rather cautious

• The advance payment required may be higher

• Swiss banks often require additional collateral or liquid assets

• Interest rates are generally very competitive , especially when combined with a

solid financial profile

Vella Real Estate collaborates with local financial partners to offer customized solutions to international clients as well.

5. Reasons to choose Ticino as your first home from abroad

Ticino is the ideal region to start a new life in Switzerland:

• Language and culture: it is close to Italy, but within the Swiss tax and regulatory system

• Job opportunities: There is a diversified economy and the presence of many international companies

• Quality of life: it offers a unique combination of Swiss services (efficiency, safety, infrastructure) and Mediterranean lifestyle (mild climate and sociability) of safety and natural beauty

• Services and education: high-quality healthcare system and recognized Swiss school system and wide range of international schools

6. Trust those who know the rules and opportunities

Buying a first home in Switzerland as a non-resident is possible, but it requires experience, regulatory knowledge, and a network of reliable partners.

With Vella Real Estate you will have:

• Personalized support in choosing a home.

• 360° support thanks to our network

• Access to properties even off-market

• Direct connection with notaries, banks, trustees and local authorities.

Want to buy a house in Switzerland in 2025? Start in Ticino

Whether you're thinking of relocating, investing, or starting a new life, buying your first home in Switzerland is possible—and Ticino is the ideal place to start.

Contact Vella Real Estate to discover available opportunities and receive a personalized plan, tailored just for you.