Moving to Austria from Switzerland: What must you know?
Relocating from Switzerland to Austria is a thrilling journey that offers stunning scenery and abundant cultural experience. Knowing the particulars of the relocation process is crucial for a smooth transfer, regardless of the reason for the job, children's future, or simply changing the landscape or scenery.
We will cover the following:
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Visa Requirements
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Custom Regulations
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Residency Requirements
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Finding an Apartment or Flat
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Parking and transportation
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Mandatory Services
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Important Point!
If you decide to move to Austria, the point which is essential here is that most people make the same mistake: Declare a significant amount of cash above €10,000 for high-value goods during customs clearness. If you fail to declare, it might be possible to face penalties and confiscation.
Visa Requirements:
Swiss residents can easily reside and work in Austria without any visa requirement.
Swiss people are exempt from visa and work permit restrictions in Austria due to the bilateral agreement signed in 1972 and the Free Trade Agreement Between Switzerland and the European Union.
This agreement enables Swiss individuals to travel freely between the two countries, making it easier to explore employment opportunities or establish residency in Austria without additional paperwork or permission.
Swiss citizens may integrate seamlessly across borders, whether for job or personal reasons.
Custom Regulations:
You must handle the customs procedure when relocating from Switzerland to Austria to guarantee that your possessions arrive lawfully and safely. While the procedure is simple because both nations are EU/EEA members, there are still important factors to take into account, which include:
Declaration of products:
To make sure you move to declare the product, although both countries impose customs taxes, some of the products are particularly expensive. One of them is electronics, which might need to be declared.
Import taxes:
When transferring to Austria with personal possessions you have owned and used for more than six months, you will often not be required to pay customs fees or import taxes. This applies to the majority of home objects and goods.
You may be liable to import duties if you bring new things or purchase goods from overseas, such as electronics, major appliances, or luxury items.
Be prepared to provide receipts or invoices to demonstrate the worth of these items. Customs officials will determine if taxes or duties apply based on their worth and condition.
Prohibited/Restricted items:
Ensure you know any restricted or prohibited goods, such as particular foods, plants, or animal products.
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Foods Items:
Particular meat, dairy, and plant Items are prohibited for food safety and agricultural reasons. Importing raw meat or dairy may need special licenses or certificates.
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Plants:
If you’re importing plants, you need a certification in phytosanitary. You are importing plants and seeds to certify their pest and disease-free status.
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Animal
If you bring pets, they must comply with Austria’s stringent veterinary standards, which include vaccines, health certifications, and perhaps quarantine for some species. Check the new requirements to verify that your dogs fit all the standards.
Moving Large Quantity of Goods:
Moving large quantities or bulk items for business or personal use requires a complex customs process, including submitting papers like an inventory list. This inventory list should include information such as the estimated value of each item, the condition of the things you carry, whether they are new or old, etc.
Residency Requirements:
When you arrive in Austria, you must register your new address/residence with the local municipality. Don’t delay more than 3 days to register, which is the registration period. This process, called Meldezettel, is a residency registration form to be submitted. It requires the following essential documents;
Proof of Identity:
This can be a valid passport, ID (identity Card), or the recommended ID card.
A valid Address in Austria:
You should present documentation attesting to your new address in Austria, such as a letter or rental agreement with the landlord.
Health Insurance:
You must demonstrate that you are covered for medical expenses in Austria, regardless of whether you work for or are a private provider. Completing this step as soon as possible is critical because late registration might result in a penalty.
We can ensure that all your documents are in order and, if necessary, walk you through the registration procedure.
Finding an Apartment or Flat:
Choosing a suitable residence is of the utmost importance. You can relocate into an ideal apartment or a flat with our experienced services, which include;
Accommodation Search:
In this process, Let's Muvu specialised apartment search services to locate properties in any city of Austria that meet your criteria, with the best options according to your price range.
Support in the Rental Process:
We can help you with the complete process of analysing lease documents, haggling over conditions, and finding your new residence.
Legal Advice and Rights:
We offer legal advice on your rights and obligations as a renter to ensure you are well-informed before signing a lease.
Parking and transportation:
We additionally offer assistance in navigating Austria’s parking and transit networks, Which include:
Vehicle/Automobile Registration:
We can help you with the documentation, inspection, and acquisition of a license plate/registration number associated with registering your vehicle in Austria.
Help you with Parking Permits:
To make your relocation smooth, We’ll assist you in obtaining the required permissions so you can stay without any problem.
Guidance on Public transit:
Our professionals can help you obtain a transit pass and offer guidance on the most appropriate options for the public transportation system.
Mandatory Services:
Beyond providing access to the essentials, we offer thorough moving services to guarantee an easy and hassle-free transition to Austria:
Utilities Setup:
Supervise the installation of electricity, internet, and water and check the previous bills are clear before you move to your new house.
Registration for Healthcare:
Our team of experts helps you register for your healthcare and ensure you have the coverage you need.
Opening a Bank Account:
We can help you open a bank account in Austria and handle the necessary paperwork.
Key takeaways:
It’s gratifying to move from Switzerland to Austria. With our specialist experts to relocate, we can ensure the transfer goes smoothly and stress-free. We can also help you navigate customs to locate the ideal apartment or flat. Contact us now to learn more about how we can help you settle into your new life or journey in Austria as smoothly as possible.
FAQ:
Do I need a visa or work permit to move from Switzerland to Austria?
No, as Switzerland and Austria are part of the Schengen Area and have agreements on the free movement of people, Swiss citizens do not need a visa or work permit to live and work in Austria. You can move freely between the two countries but must register your residence within three days of arrival in Austria.
What is the difference in cost of living between Switzerland and Austria?
The cost of living in Austria is generally lower than in Switzerland. Housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation are more affordable in Austria. However, salaries are typically higher in Switzerland, meaning that while you may save money on expenses in Austria, your income could be lower, depending on your job and industry.
Will my Swiss qualifications and degrees be recognised in Austria?
Generally, qualifications obtained in Switzerland are recognised in Austria, especially within regulated professions. However, you may need to have your qualifications validated by Austrian authorities. Additional certifications or procedures might be required for certain occupations, such as doctors, lawyers, or teachers.
How do taxes compare between Switzerland and Austria?
Austria generally has higher income tax rates than Switzerland, which is known for its low taxes. Austria follows a progressive tax system with rates reaching up to 55% for high-income earners. However, Austria offers many social benefits, including healthcare and social security, that these taxes cover.
What should I know about healthcare when moving from Switzerland to Austria?
Austria offers a comprehensive public healthcare system funded by social insurance contributions. Swiss nationals must register for health insurance through their employer or a private plan if they are self-employed. Austrian healthcare is highly regarded, but it’s essential to understand that it operates differently than the Swiss system, where healthcare is privately insured.
How easy is finding housing in Austria as a Swiss national?
Finding housing in Austria is generally more straightforward and more affordable than in Switzerland. Rental prices, especially outside of Vienna, are lower. However, demand in major cities can be high, so starting your housing search early is recommended. You can look for rental apartments through various online portals, and rental agencies can assist in navigating the housing market.
