Swiss rental crisis: Why expats are turning to serviced apartments
Moving to Switzerland is exciting, but finding a place to live is often harder than expected. YOSAA explains why taking your time and starting with a serviced apartment can make all the difference.
Switzerland consistently ranks among the most desirable destinations for expats. With its high quality of life, strong career opportunities and international cities like Zurich, Geneva and Basel, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to move here each year.
At the same time, demand for housing is high. Rents in Zurich have risen 96% over the past 25 years, and Switzerland’s national vacancy rate stood at around 1 percent in 2025. In practice, this simply means that finding the right long-term home can take a bit of time, especially when relocating from abroad.
For many expats, the most successful approach is not to rush into a permanent rental straight away, but to start with flexibility.
What EU and EFTA nationals need to know about renting in Switzerland
If you’re moving to Switzerland from the EU or EFTA, the process is relatively straightforward. With a valid employment contract, you can enter the country and complete your registration locally after arrival.
However, like many newcomers, you may find that choosing the right neighbourhood, attending viewings and preparing a strong rental application takes a few weeks. Rather than committing to a long-term lease immediately, many expats opt to begin their stay in a serviced apartment.
This allows you to settle in comfortably, explore different areas and organise important documents such as your registration and financial setup. Landlords often ask for supporting documents like a debt collection register extract, and having time to arrange these properly can make your application stronger.
How serviced apartments can help non-EU nationals
For expats arriving from outside the EU or EFTA, relocation involves a few additional steps, including work authorisation arranged by your employer. Once you arrive in Switzerland and register locally, your residence permit is finalised. Both EU and non-EU nationals are required to register within 14 days of their arrival.
Having a stable place to stay during this period makes a big difference. Serviced apartments provide a ready-to-live environment from day one, so you can focus on settling into your new role and surroundings rather than managing short-term accommodation logistics.
Short-term stays and long-term relocations in Switzerland
Serviced apartments are designed for stays of a few months up to a year. For short assignments of 1-12 months, they can be a complete solution. For longer relocations over one year, they provide an ideal starting point while you take the time to find a home that truly fits your lifestyle.
Unlike hotels, they offer the space and comfort of a real home, typically including a fully equipped kitchen, a living area and a dedicated workspace, along with services such as Wi-Fi, utilities and cleaning, all bundled into one monthly rate.
Starting your Swiss experience the right way
Relocating to a new country always comes with a period of adjustment. By choosing a flexible, well-equipped place to stay right from the beginning, you give yourself the space to settle in, get to know your surroundings, and make informed decisions about where to live long-term.
YOSAA offers a curated selection of serviced apartments across Switzerland (and Europe!), making it easy for expats to find comfortable, reliable accommodation from the moment they arrive. Whether you’re staying for a few months or planning a longer move, it’s a simple way to begin your Swiss experience with confidence.