When must you register?

The rules at a glance

Four situations, four deadlines

Why “14 days” doesn't apply to everyone — and which deadline is right in your case.

You're starting a job

Before your first day of work

Anyone taking up gainful work must register before it begins. Third-country nationals need the permit before entry; EU/EFTA nationals register at the commune before starting work.

AIG Art. 12 Abs. 1

You're moving in without working (over 3 months)

Within 14 days

Anyone entering for a stay of more than three months without gainful work, holding an entry authorisation, must register within 14 days of entry.

VZAE Art. 10 Abs. 1

You already live here and you're moving

Within 14 days

When you move to a new commune or canton you must register at your new address — and deregister at your old one — within 14 days; this is a federal deadline (VZAE Art. 15 Abs. 1).

VZAE Art. 15 Abs. 1

Short stay without work (3 months or less)

No registration

Stays of up to three months within any six months, without gainful work, need neither a permit nor registration. If you are a visa-exempt third-country national, the Schengen 90-days-in-180 rule also applies.

VZAE Art. 9