Moving to Lausanne: Your Essential Guide to a Smooth Relocation
It's an exciting prospect: Moving to Lausanne, a vibrant city nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, with the stunning Alps as a backdrop. Known for its high quality of life, excellent public transport, and international flair, Lausanne attracts professionals, students, and families from all over the world. But before you pack your bags, there are several key aspects to consider to ensure a smooth transition.
Lausanne, as the capital of the canton of Vaud, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. It's home to the International Olympic Committee, boasts a rich cultural scene, and provides access to a fantastic array of outdoor activities. However, like any major move, a successful relocation requires careful planning and an understanding of local customs and logistics.
Understanding the Cost of Living
One of the first things people realize about Lausanne, and Switzerland in general, is the higher cost of living. While salaries are typically higher to compensate, it's crucial to budget carefully.
· Housing: Rent is a significant expense. A studio apartment in a normal area might cost around CHF 1,391-1,781 per month, while a furnished 85m² apartment could range from CHF 2,203-3,188. Buying property is also expensive, with average prices per square meter over CHF 12,000 for apartments.
· Groceries and Dining: Food prices can be notably higher than in many other countries. Eating out, even a basic meal, can be expensive.
· Healthcare: Healthcare in Switzerland is excellent but mandatory private health insurance is required for all residents. This can be a substantial monthly cost, typically ranging from CHF 300-500 for an adult.
Navigating the Job Market
For non-EU/EFTA citizens, securing a job before moving is often a prerequisite for obtaining a work permit. Switzerland's economy is robust, with opportunities in various sectors including IT, pharmaceuticals, finance, and watchmaking. English is widely spoken in international business environments, but learning French (the official language of Lausanne) will significantly enhance your job prospects and daily life. Networking and utilizing local job platforms like jobs.ch or jobup.ch (for French-speaking Switzerland) are essential.
Education for Families
Lausanne offers excellent educational opportunities, both public and private.
· Public Schools: Free and follow the Swiss curriculum in French. They offer intensive French courses for non-French speaking students. This is a great option for integration into the local community.
· International Schools: Several reputable international schools, like the International School of Lausanne, offer English-language curricula (e.g., IB, British, American). These schools, however, come with very high tuition fees, often ranging from CHF 15,000 to over CHF 40,000 per year. It's advisable to apply well in advance due to demand.
Getting Around: Public Transport and More
Lausanne boasts an incredibly efficient public transportation system, operated by Transports Publics de la Région Lausannoise (TL).
· Metro: Lausanne is notable for having the smallest city in the world with a full metro system. The M2 line efficiently connects the city from north to south, handling steep gradients.
· Buses and Trolleybuses: A dense network covers the entire city and surrounding areas.
· Trains: Excellent rail links connect Lausanne to other major Swiss cities and European destinations.
· Lausanne Transport Card: If you're staying in a hotel, inquire about this card, which offers free public transport during your stay.
Given the excellent public transport, owning a car in Lausanne is often unnecessary and can be expensive due to fuel costs and parking.
Essential Formalities Upon Arrival
Upon arrival, there are crucial administrative steps you must take:
1. Register with the Commune: You must register with the Contrôle des habitants (Residents' Control) in Lausanne within 8 days of your arrival.
2. Health Insurance: As mentioned, obtaining mandatory health insurance within three months of arrival is crucial.
3. Bank Account: Opening a local bank account will be necessary for managing your finances.
4. Permits: Ensure you have the correct residence and work permits. EU/EFTA citizens generally have an easier process than non-EU/EFTA citizens.
Embracing the Lausanne Lifestyle
Beyond the practicalities, Moving to Lausanne means embracing a high quality of life. The city is clean, safe, and offers abundant opportunities for leisure. Enjoy strolls along Lake Geneva, explore the charming old town with its impressive cathedral, or visit the numerous museums and art galleries. The nearby Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer stunning scenery and wine-tasting experiences. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking, cycling, and winter sports in the nearby Alps are easily accessible.
While the initial move might seem complex due to administrative steps and the cost of living, the benefits of residing in Lausanne – from its stunning natural beauty and high standard of living to its vibrant international community – make it a truly rewarding experience.
