None of these mistakes is dramatic on its own, but each one costs time, money, or both. Here are the most repeated ones.

1. Leaving health insurance for the last minute

The deadline is 3 months and it's mandatory, not optional. Signing up late doesn't excuse you from paying retroactively from your arrival date. See the health insurance guide.

2. Underestimating housing competition

Showing up without an application dossier ready (payslips, cover letter, documentation) in a market where 20-30 people view the same apartment is the number one reason for an endless housing search. See the housing guide.

3. Only looking at gross salary

A salary that sounds spectacular compared to Spain can end up looking very different after deductions and local cost of living, which varies a lot by canton. Use the quiz for a more realistic reference.

4. Not understanding the difference between standard German and Swiss German

Studying only Schwiizerdütsch expressions before arriving (instead of Hochdeutsch) is usually a poorly aimed effort for paperwork and formal work. See the language guide.

5. Bringing the car without checking the moving-goods exemption

Crossing the border without declaring the vehicle as "moving goods" can make you lose the customs and VAT exemption you were entitled to. It has to be declared at the moment you cross, not afterward. See the car & plates guide.

6. Not keeping certified documents and receipts

You'll be asked for them more than once: for registration, the bank, insurance, and sometimes by your employer too. Carry both physical and digital copies from day one. See the documents guide.

7. Choosing a canton just because the name "sounds good"

Zurich and Geneva are the best-known options, but not always the most suitable for your sector, budget, or language. Compare first in the cantons guide.