I have a keen interest in gaining knowledge about the experiences of American expatriates who have relocated to Switzerland. More specifically, I am intrigued by the insights you may have on living in Switzerland as an American expat. I have had the opportunity to visit Switzerland on two separate occasions. The first visit was to Geneva, and more recently, in August, I spent five days in Zurich. I really like it there. Also its proximity to Israel, which is of paramount importance to me. It is my fervent hope to visit Israel at least twice a year.
I know there’s a difference between being a tourist and a resident, my upcoming plans involve a more extended stay of approximately one year. I live in Florida and travel 4-5times a year. I have had the opportunity to travel to more than 55 countries, and while I have experienced a diverse range of cultures and lifestyles, I have yet to find a place that has inspired me to stay longer than three months.
I am in my early 30s with no intentions or current plans of settling down. (No family obligations, presence of a partner or children)if you’ll ask me- this is my answer. These elements can greatly influence the decision-making process.
Thank you!
Every time I hear about Israel: 😞
What would you like to know?
Not OP but I’d like to hijack this comment if you’d humor me.
Hoe were able to become a long term resident of Switzerland?
How is work culture there compared to the US? Generally, I’ve read that work life balance is much better in the EU/Western Europe but Switzerland is more so work focused compared to its neighbors.
Lastly what are things you enjoy and don’t enjoy about Swiss culture? Has it been hard to integrate?
I do not see any specific issues, no reasons for you not to enjoy living in Geneva or Zurich. These are popular destinations for expats in general and quite international.
Flying to Israel from there should be relatively fast and inexpensive too.
There are many Americans in Switzerland. I think if sit at a random restaurant or bar table in Zurich it’s just as likely people will be talking English as Swiss German, and many places have menus only in English and you have to ask for German…
It will only be possible to get a working/residence visa if you have an EU/Swiss citizenship or work in academia or certain very high demand sectors (if you do not have recruiters bugging you on your personal phone number they somehow have ALL THE TIME for 6 figure jobs this does not apply to you).
Why not just live in Israel - I guess you’re Jewish heritage/religon/ethnicity from the question, so you have very preferential visa treatment, and without wanting to comment on the current unfortunate situation it’s a really advanced country with a lot of fantastic dynamic high tech companies. I think Tel Aviv must be on a level with any european business or tech hub city?
I know there’s a difference between being a tourist and a resident, my upcoming plans involve a more extended stay of approximately one year.
On what permit though?
oh hey there! i moved to switzerland after my company sponsored my visa and now i have a B permit. work culture is pretty similar to the US, but swiss labor laws are a plus. people are friendly and i’ve made good friends, but knowing french is a must. only downside is the lack of urgency in business and non-resealable food packages.