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🇨🇭 Buying real estate in Switzerland – Guide for foreign buyers
Invest in Swiss stability and excellence
Switzerland has always attracted international investors and residents with its economic stability, unparalleled quality of life, and robust real estate market. With its mountains, lakes, and dynamic cities, the country offers a unique environment that combines security, prestige, and long-term profitability.
At Swiss Premium Properties, we support foreign buyers throughout the acquisition process, taking into account the specific regulations applicable to non-residents and offering them privileged access to selected opportunities.
Conditions for foreign buyers
The purchase of real estate in Switzerland by foreigners is governed by the Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad (LFAIE, known as “Lex Koller”).
In summary:
- Foreign residents with a B or C permit may purchase property for personal use under certain conditions.
- Non-residents may purchase a second home or vacation property in certain authorized municipalities, with restrictions on size and number of properties.
- The purchase of commercial properties or investment properties is often permitted for foreign investors, subject to cantonal approval and the type of company.
As each case is unique, our role is to provide a personalized analysis and guide you toward the solution best suited to your profile and project.
Criteria and restrictions for foreign buyers
The purchase of real estate in Switzerland by a foreign national is subject to several specific criteria defined by the Lex Koller. These rules vary depending on the type of property, its location, and the status of the owner.
- Location: Non-resident foreigners may only purchase vacation properties in certain authorized tourist communities, mainly located in the Alpine and lake regions (Vaud, Valais, Graubünden, Ticino, etc.). Large cities such as Geneva, Lausanne, and Zurich do not generally allow non-residents to purchase property.
- Living space: the maximum permitted living space for a vacation home is generally 200 m². This limit may vary slightly depending on the canton and the nature of the property.
- Land area: the adjoining land must not exceed 1,000 m², unless a cantonal exemption or special justification applies (e.g., to ensure privacy or access to the property).
- Number of properties: the same person may only own one vacation property in Switzerland, except in specific cases involving investments through local legal structures (Swiss companies, holding companies, etc.).
These criteria ensure the preservation of the Swiss residential market while offering international buyers the opportunity to access exclusive residences in the most beautiful regions of the country.
Our team helps you identify authorized municipalities and verify the eligibility of each property before any purchase, ensuring a compliant and stress-free process.
Our tailor-made support
Swiss Premium Properties offers a comprehensive and confidential service to every foreign investor:
- Selection and presentation of properties that are eligible under current legislation
- Administrative and legal assistance, in collaboration with our partner notaries and lawyers
- Liaison with Swiss financial institutions for financing or setting up local structures
- Strategic advice on investment, rental management, and asset valuation
Our goal is to simplify every step of your purchase, in compliance with legal requirements and with complete transparency.
Support beyond the purchase
In addition, our Swiss Premium network allows you to benefit from comprehensive services:
- Swiss Premium Education, for families wishing to educate their children in Switzerland
- Swiss Premium Hospitality, for domiciliation, concierge services, and assistance with settling in for new residents
- Swiss Premium Properties, for the management and resale of your assets
We offer an integrated experience designed for international investors, families, and entrepreneurs who want to settle or invest in Switzerland’s exceptional environment.