First month guide in Zurich

1. 1

   Register at Zurich's Residents' Office

   essential

   Within 14 days of arrival, register your address at the Kreisbüro (local district office) or online. This is legally required for all residents in Zurich.

2. 2

   Set up a local Swiss bank account

   essential

   Essential for rent, salary, and daily expenses. Consider PostFinance, ZKB (Zürcher Kantonalbank), or UBS for local services and ease of use.

3. 3

   Arrange mandatory Swiss health insurance

   essential

   You have three months to choose a provider after registration. Compare premiums and services from companies like Helsana, CSS, or Sanitas.

4. 4

   Purchase a local Swiss SIM card

   essential

   Essential for communication. Providers like Salt, Sunrise, or Swisscom offer various plans. Prepaid options are good for the first month.

5. 5

   Thoroughly review your rental agreement

   essential

   Familiarize yourself with contract types (Untermietvertrag, WG-Vertrag) and responsibilities. Pay attention to notice periods and house rules.

6. 6

   Set up reliable home internet connection

   essential

   Providers like UPC Sunrise or Swisscom offer fast internet. Installation can take time, so initiate this early for a smooth setup.

7. 7

   Master Zurich's strict waste separation rules

   recommended

   Proper recycling and waste disposal are mandatory. Use official Züri-Säcke for general waste and understand separation for glass, paper, PET.

8. 8

   Purchase a ZVV public transport pass

   essential

   Zurich's public transport is excellent. Consider a monthly or annual ZVV pass based on your travel zones for cost-effectiveness.

1. 1

   Become familiar with Zurich's public transport (ZVV)

   essential

   Download the ZVV or SBB app. Trams, buses, and S-Bahn trains are highly efficient. Understand zones for ticketing to avoid fines.

2. 2

   Discover local grocery shopping options

   essential

   Migros and Coop are main supermarkets, offering everything you need. Smaller shops like Denner or Lidl provide budget-friendly alternatives.

3. 3

   Learn essential Swiss German or High German phrases

   recommended

   While many speak English, basic German shows respect. Learn greetings, "please," "thank you," and common shopping terms.

4. 4

   Identify your local pharmacy (Apotheke)

   essential

   For minor ailments and prescriptions, know your nearest pharmacy. Many operate extended hours, and some have emergency services.

5. 5

   Grasp Swiss social norms and etiquette

   recommended

   Punctuality, orderliness, and quietness are valued. A firm handshake, direct communication, and respecting personal space are common.

6. 6

   Discover budget-friendly lunch spots

   nice-to-have

   Many restaurants offer "Mittagsmenü" (lunch menus) that are significantly cheaper than dinner. Bakeries also have good sandwich options.

7. 7

   Visit Zurich's vibrant local markets

   nice-to-have

   Explore Bürkliplatz market for fresh produce or Kanzlei for flea market finds. It's a great way to experience local culture and goods.

8. 8

   Obtain a library card at PBZ (Pestalozzi-Bibliothek Zürich)

   nice-to-have

   Access books, movies, and online resources. It's a great, free way to learn German and connect with community events.

1. 1

   Connect with local expat and interest groups

   recommended

   Platforms like Meetup.com and Internations Zurich are excellent for finding social events, shared interests, and meeting fellow newcomers.

2. 2

   Sign up for German language classes

   recommended

   Migros Klubschule, ZHAW, or local Volkshochschulen offer courses. It's crucial for integration and a great way to meet people.

3. 3

   Join a sports club or pursue a hobby

   recommended

   Zurich has numerous clubs for hiking, swimming in Lake Zurich, or fitness. It's an effective way to build local connections and stay active.

4. 4

   Prepare a comprehensive housing application

   essential

   Due to high competition, include your Betreibungsauszug (debt extract), employment contract, and a cover letter for shared housing.

5. 5

   Recognize and avoid common rental scams

   essential

   Never pay deposits before seeing the apartment or signing a contract. Be suspicious of offers that seem too good to be true.

6. 6

   Participate in university or community events

   nice-to-have

   ETH Zurich and University of Zurich have public lectures and events. Local Gemeinde (municipality) also organizes cultural activities.

7. 7

   Discover Zurich's parks and natural beauty

   nice-to-have

   Uetliberg, Lindenhof, and Zurichhorn are great for relaxation and walks. Enjoy the stunning scenery and fresh air.

8. 8

   Consider volunteering for a local organization

   nice-to-have

   Volunteering is a meaningful way to meet people, practice German, and contribute to the community while gaining local insight.

• Always carry a small umbrella; Zurich weather can be unpredictable, even on sunny mornings.
• For shared housing, prepare a "dossier" with your Betreibungsauszug and a short friendly introduction letter – it significantly boosts your chances.
• Utilize "free boxes" or "Gratis-Ecken" in your building or online groups for second-hand items; it's sustainable and saves money.
• Don't underestimate Swiss quiet hours, especially evenings and Sundays. Loud activities can lead to neighbour complaints quickly.
• Invest in a good quality reusable water bottle; tap water in Zurich is excellent and safe to drink everywhere.

This guide is tailored specifically for Zurich, Switzerland, addressing its unique housing market challenges, strict administrative processes like the Einwohneramt registration, and the highly efficient ZVV public transport system. The advice on cultural nuances and specific service providers ensures a smooth integration into this distinctive Swiss city.

• Best neighborhoods
• Cost of living
• Moving checklist
• Student discounts
• Public transport
• Pet-Friendly living
• Expat community
• Grocery shopping
• Coworking spaces
• Nightlife & social
• Day trips
• Neighbourhoods

• Rental contracts
• Tenant rights
• Deposit protection
• Registration guide
• Flatshare etiquette
• Phone & internet