Yes, the so-called Lex Friedrich forbids foreigners without permits
to buy any real estate in Switzerland. However, it allows cantons - or states - to give
limited buying authorization in selected areas, if the buyer fulfils certain conditions.
If you hold a residency (a B or C) permit however, that is another story.
You must :
- Buy a property in an area where it's legal for foreigners to
do so. Click here to go to a map of those areas (in a new window)
- Buy only one property. For real estate investments click here.(in a new
window)
- Buy with money that has not been generated through criminal
activity (of course)
If you fulfil these conditions, you will normally be allowed
to buy.
Mainly in tourist areas. Not in big cities like Geneva or Zurich.
Click to go to this map which will show you where you can buy, or
if you have a specific place in mind, you can contact us.
No, in these cities you can't buy anything. But there may be an
alternative solution.
Yes, you can, but you can only stay in it continuously for 3 months
at a time and you cannot live there for more than 6 months.
Some people will offer to buy you an apartment in their name. As
Swiss, they can buy anything so they will buy but you will pay. This is illegal, and we
won't do it. And we don't advise you to do such a thing, as the property could be
confiscated and you could go to jail.
BACK TO FAQs
© Micheloud
& Cie
1999 |
No part of this site may be reproduced in
any form or by any means without our prior written permission. Information contained in
this website is not meant to substitute qualified legal advice given by a specialist
knowing your particular situation. We accept no responsibility for the consequences
of decisions taken following information found on this website. More... |
Switzerland
is yours | FAQs about foreigners buying apartments | Contact Us
|