Financial Checklist for Leaving Switzerland

---

 Leaving Switzerland is more than just packing your bags — it’s a complex financial transition that requires careful planning both in Switzerland and in your new country of residence.

You need to consider many things locally, such as:

• Tax obligations up to your departure date
• Pension withdrawals and portability
• Health insurance cancellation
• Bank accounts and investment restructuring

But just as importantly, you must understand the financial landscape of your destination:

• Taxation: When does the tax year start and end? How are foreign pensions and investments taxed?
• Wealth & Investment Taxes: Are there annual declarations or exit taxes?
• Pension Taxation: Swiss pensions may be taxed differently depending on bilateral agreements and local laws.

We’ve seen cases where a small oversight — like withdrawing a pension at the wrong time or misunderstanding local tax rules — has cost individuals 20–40% of their assets. That’s why a coordinated cross-border strategy is essential.

 Final Tax Return: You must file a final Swiss tax return covering income and assets up to the date of departure.

Capital Gains & Property Taxes: If you own Swiss property, capital gains and property taxes may still apply even after emigration.

Ongoing Tax Liability: Income from Swiss sources (e.g., rental income, self-employment) may remain taxable in Switzerland.

First Pillar (AHV/AVS): You may still be eligible for pension payments abroad if your destination country has a social security agreement with Switzerland. 

Second Pillar (BVG): You can withdraw or transfer your occupational pension. Full withdrawal is possible if moving outside the EU/EFTA; within the EU/EFTA, only the extra-mandatory portion can be withdrawn. 

*Cross-border taxation is critical some countries will tax you up to 50% on withdrawals. 

Third Pillar (3a): You can withdraw your funds upon permanent departure, with proof of deregistration. 

 Swiss Bank Accounts: Some banks allow non-residents to keep accounts, often with higher fees. Others require closure. Check with your bank well in advance. 

Investment Portfolios: Review tax implications of holding Swiss investments as a non-resident. You may need to restructure or transfer assets.

*Careful planning is needed if your new residency has capital gains tax, while making sure they are held within the correct structure. 

 Basic Insurance (LAMal): Must be cancelled upon deregistration. Insurers require proof of new coverage or a departure certificate. 

Supplementary Insurance: Often has longer notice periods (typically 3 months). Confirm cancellation deadlines with your provider. 

International Coverage: Consider expatriate health insurance if you want continuity of care abroad.

Municipal Deregistration: Required to officially end your Swiss residency. This triggers changes in tax, insurance, and pension status.

Forwarding Address: Provide your new address to banks, insurers, and pension funds to ensure continued communication.

Cancel:

Utilities, 

Mobile plans, 

Gym memberships, 

Any other recurring services. 

Many require written notice and have long cancellation periods. 

Plan for currency exchange and international transfer rates can vary enormously.