Leaving Hong Kong for Switzerland is a big change, and it helps to see the whole road before the first step. This page walks you through what is different, what can be prepared at home, and what waits for you after landing. The aim is a calm, ordered plan, whether you travel alone, as a couple, or with school-age children.
The big difference: which rules apply to you
Switzerland has two admission systems. One is for citizens of the EU and EFTA countries, based on the free movement agreement. The other is for citizens of third countries, meaning everyone outside the EU and EFTA (State Secretariat for Migration, SEM). Hong Kong passport holders sit in the second group, unless they also hold an EU or EFTA nationality.
In practice, this means a Swiss residence permit is not automatic. The authorities decide, and the outcome depends on your situation, the canton you move to, and the type of permit. A specialist can look at your case through the request at the bottom of the page.
If you want a first orientation, the permit finder asks a few questions and points to the usual route.
Quotas: why timing and the canton matter
For third-country workers, Switzerland sets yearly quotas. For 2026, the federal limit is up to 8,500 qualified workers and specialists: 4,500 B permits and 4,000 L permits (SEM). These numbers are unchanged from 2025 and took effect at the start of 2026. The cantons then share out their part.
Two other quota lines exist in 2026. EU/EFTA service providers have 3,500 places, split into 3,000 L and 500 B permits. The United Kingdom has 3,500 places, split into 2,100 B and 1,400 L permits (SEM). These do not apply to Hong Kong, but they show how the system is built.
A B permit is a residence permit, and an L permit is a short-term permit. Next year's numbers are published in November, so it is worth checking the official pages before a firm date is set.
Before you leave Hong Kong
Most of the work at home is about paperwork and timing. Here is a calm order of steps.
- Clarify the route. Is the move linked to an employer, a family member, or another reason? The route shapes everything after.
- Gather documents. Passports, birth and marriage certificates, school records, and employment papers are typical. Ask the Swiss authority which ones need translation or a formal stamp.
- Plan the first housing. Many newcomers book temporary housing first, then search locally. The rental file check shows what landlords usually expect.
- Think about schooling. Children's school choice differs by canton and language region. The school choice tool is a good start.
- Map your calendar. The relocation calendar puts the steps in a sensible order.
If you have a Swiss job offer already, the page for people with a job offer explains how the employer side works.
What changes in daily life
Health insurance
In Hong Kong, many people rely on a mix of public care and private cover. Switzerland works differently. Basic health insurance is compulsory for residents, and it is paid by individuals, not through the employer by default. Plans differ by provider, canton, and deductible. A specialist can compare options for your household, and the FAQ covers the basics.
Taxes
Swiss taxes are set at federal, cantonal, and municipal level, so the bill varies from place to place. Hong Kong's system looks very different, so direct comparisons are risky. Tax questions about your own case belong with a qualified adviser.
Housing
Rents are high in the main cities, and apartments often come unfurnished, sometimes without kitchen lights or a fitted wardrobe. Landlords or property managers usually ask for a full application file. Moving with a pet adds paperwork; see moving with a pet.
Language
German, French, Italian, and Romansh are the official languages, depending on region. English works in international workplaces, but daily life with neighbors and authorities is easier with the local language.
Your first weeks after arrival
After landing, the usual order is to register with the local municipality, then follow the steps the cantonal migration office sets. Bank account, phone, and insurance follow. A good rhythm is one administrative task per day rather than all at once.
Families often find the first weeks easier with a plan. For example, a couple with two children arriving in August might start with registration, then school enrollment, then insurance, leaving sightseeing for weekends. This is an illustration, not a real case.
Choosing where to live
Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Zug, and Lucerne attract many internationals from Asia. Each has its own language, rent level, and feel. The city comparator lets you view them side by side. For local support, see help in Zurich or help in Lucerne.
How others in Asia and beyond approach it
Moves from Asia share many steps, with local differences. You might read about Japan, Singapore, South Korea, China, or the UAE. Those arriving from Canada, the US, or the UK face different rules, so comparing is only a guide.
Where we fit in
This site connects you with relocation companies in Switzerland. Depending on your request, you are put in touch with the one that fits your needs. The immigration support and relocation services pages explain what kinds of help exist. To begin, use the request at the bottom of the page or tell us about your move.
Frequently asked questions
Can Hong Kong citizens move to Switzerland easily?
Hong Kong citizens fall under the third-country rules (SEM). That means admission depends on a permit decision by the authorities, usually linked to work, family, or another recognized reason.
Is Hong Kong part of the EU or EFTA?
No. Hong Kong is outside both, so the third-country regime applies, not the free movement route.
Do I need a job offer before moving?
For most work routes, yes, a Swiss employer is usually the starting point. Other routes exist, such as family reunification, and a specialist can explain which one fits.
What are the 2026 quotas for third-country workers?
Up to 8,500 qualified workers and specialists, made up of 4,500 B permits and 4,000 L permits (SEM). The cantons share out their part.
What is the difference between a B and an L permit?
A B permit is a residence permit. An L permit is for shorter stays. The authority decides which one fits.
Does the Hong Kong passport have any special treatment?
Not in the quota lines described here. The UK has its own line, but Hong Kong does not.
Will the quota numbers change next year?
They can. The numbers for 2027 are announced in November 2026, so checking the official pages is worthwhile.
Can my family come with me?
Family members can often apply to join a permit holder, depending on the permit type and canton. The authority reviews each case.
Is English enough to live in Switzerland?
In international workplaces and big cities, often yes. For daily life and local authorities, the regional language helps a lot.
Is health insurance optional?
No. Basic health insurance is compulsory for residents. Providers and plans vary, so a specialist can compare them for your household.
How are Swiss taxes different from Hong Kong's?
Switzerland taxes at federal, cantonal, and municipal level, so the total depends on where you live. For your own situation, ask a qualified tax adviser.
Can I bring my pet?
Often yes, with documents and checks in advance. See the pet moving page for the general steps.
Where should I look for housing first?
Many newcomers start with temporary housing, then search locally once they know the area. The rental file check shows what landlords usually ask for.
How do I start planning?
Try the personal checklist or the relocation calendar, then send a request at the bottom of the page.