Is Switzerland overrated? I am currently living in Belgium, but had always wanted to move to Switzerland. I've worked in Germany, the Netherlands, now Belgium and felt that the Netherlands is most expat friendly + fun people, Germany is most efficient + work/life balance, and Belgium has nothing outstanding (yet, for me), but amazing healthcare. Apart from the incredible scenic nature, high standard of living and lower tax in Switzerland, just wonder if anyone had experience living/working in both countries (Belgium & Switzerland) and could help compare! thanks!
Moving to Switzerland from Belgium. Is it worth it?
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If you are thinking about relocating to Switzerland, you should realize that the country has a lot to offer. However, being an expat in Switzerland might bring certain difficulties. Expats from countries outside the European Union/Schengen Area, such as the United States, suffer extra procedural difficulties. However, most expats in Switzerland think that the nation provides a higher quality of life. They are paid more and have access to universal healthcare and education. However, fully integrating into local society and creating Swiss friends might be challenging. Furthermore, the nation is prohibitively pricey. So, let's get started with the top ten things you should know about living as an expat in Switzerland.
How does it feel to live in Switzerland?
Moving to Switzerland as an expat can be an excellent decision. The nation has a high standard of living and several options to explore the amazing mountains, lakes, cities, and villages. Because of its landlocked location in the heart of Europe, inhabitants may easily travel across the area, including the neighboring nations of Germany, Italy, and France. The Swiss have an excellent work-life balance. Employees have a lot of freedom and respect to take care of their other duties.
Switzerland, of course, has excellent healthcare and education systems. As a result, expats may anticipate a multiplicity of high-quality schools as well as simple access to medical treatment. Switzerland also features reasonably priced public transportation as well as well-planned infrastructure.
This high standard of living, however, comes at a cost. Switzerland is famously costly, and expats typically pay significantly more than they do back home on housing, education, healthcare, and everyday essentials. Many expats are also dissatisfied with Swiss culture, which may be too quiet, courteous, and conventional. This also makes blending in with the natives difficult. Expats might sometimes feel as though they are living in a bubble.
Housing
Property is, of course, one of the most expensive costs for foreigners in Switzerland. In truth, the majority of individuals in the country do not own a house. As an expat, you will most likely rent while in Switzerland, and you may anticipate paying at least 20% of your monthly earnings on rent. In a city like Zürich, this translates to about CHF 2,500–6,000 per month. If you are going to Switzerland from London or New York, you will be fairly familiar with this. In addition, utilities might cost up to CHF 250 per month. Some landlords, however, include this in their rental costs.
Taxes
Taxes in Switzerland may sometimes be tricky. This is due to the fact that you must pay both federal income tax – such as VAT and stamp duty – and canton tax, which includes income, property, and inheritance tax. Furthermore, local towns may collect fees such as a pet tax or a car tax. Switzerland, on the other hand, provides a wide range of tax breaks that might help you save money. Families, for example, can deduct up to CHF 6,500 for each dependent kid. If you are relocating to Switzerland from the United States or any other country that applies its tax regulations to people living abroad, you must also report your yearly global income to your home country. So, if you have multiple tax filing duties, you should seek professional counsel.
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Deciding whether moving to Switzerland from Belgium is worth it depends on various factors, and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, priorities, and circumstances. Here are some aspects to consider:
Cost of Living: Switzerland has a higher cost of living compared to Belgium. While salaries are generally higher in Switzerland, it's essential to consider how the increased cost of living might affect your overall financial situation.
Standard of Living: Switzerland is known for its high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and beautiful natural scenery. If these aspects are important to you, then Switzerland may be an attractive destination.
Work/Life Balance: Germany is often praised for its efficient work environment and good work/life balance. Switzerland, too, tends to have a well-organized work culture, but it can vary based on the industry and company.
Expat-Friendliness: The Netherlands is known for being expat-friendly, and if this is a crucial factor for you, you might want to consider how welcoming Switzerland is to expatriates. However, the level of friendliness can vary based on your personal experiences and the region within Switzerland.
Language: Switzerland has four official languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh), and the language spoken can vary depending on the region. Language considerations may play a role in your decision.
Taxation: Switzerland generally has lower income taxes than Belgium, but tax structures can be complex and vary by canton. It's essential to understand the specific tax implications for your situation.
Cultural and Social Scene: Consider your preferences for cultural and social activities. Switzerland has a diverse cultural scene, but it may differ from what you have experienced in Belgium.
It might be helpful to connect with expatriates who have lived in both Belgium and Switzerland to get firsthand experiences and insights. Additionally, researching specific regions within Switzerland and understanding their unique characteristics can assist you in making a more informed decision.
Ultimately, whether Switzerland is "overrated" is subjective and depends on your individual priorities and expectations. It could be beneficial to visit Switzerland for an extended period or explore the possibility of short-term assignments to get a better feel for the country before making a permanent move.