I-Passport Index
Europe

Switzerland

Baseline rank
#108 / 116
Baseline score
58.4
Factor scores

How Switzerland performs

Tax

70.9
Strong

On the high side. Taxes here are heavier than in most countries we cover (92nd of 123). Worth taking tax advice before you move. Personal income tax 0-43.2%, corporate tax 11.66-20.54%, VAT 8.1%.

Source: Heritage Foundation, Index of Economic Freedom (Tax Burden sub-score)

Safety

72.7
Strong

Very safe. Switzerland is one of the most peaceful and stable countries in the index, 2nd of 117.

Source: Institute for Economics and Peace, Global Peace Index

Cost of Living

22.1
Weak

Expensive. Switzerland is one of the most expensive places to live in the index, 118th of 118. Plan for high everyday costs.

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Index

Education

67.8
Strong

Excellent education. Switzerland has one of the strongest education and knowledge systems in the index, 1st of 120. A strong choice for families and for study.

Source: UNDP & MBRF, Global Knowledge Index

Every figure is published by the institution named against it. We do not adjust, model or estimate the underlying values. See the formulas.

Tax and citizenship

The detail behind the scores

Taxation

Corporate income tax 11.66-20.54% Applicable tax rate varies based on on location and residence
Personal income tax 0-43.2% Applicable tax rate varies based on the amount of inome earned, marital status, dependents and location of residency
Standard VAT 8.1%

Rates change without notice. Confirm with the relevant tax authority before acting.

Naturalization Requirements and Immigration Pathway

Residence for naturalization
10 years
Language requirement
Yes
Proficiency in German, French, Italian, or Romansh (Oral - B1 level; Written - A2 level)
Investment Immigration Pathway
Swiss Residence Permit
Official languages
German, French, Italian and Romansh
Romansh is official only for communicating with Romansh speakers
Pathways

1 immigration pathway

Swiss residence permit
Minimum investment: CHF 429,000Processing time: 3-6 MonthsPermanent residency: After 5 or 10 years (depending on nationality)
Program details

Program terms change. Always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before acting. This page is informational and is not legal or tax advice.

Compare

Elsewhere in Europe