Financial matters
Financial proof for residence permit
For your stay in Switzerland, you need at least CHF 1,500 a month for accommodation and food.
It is difficult to find part-time jobs. As an international non-Swiss student you are allowed to work a maximum of 15 hours a week. Non-EU/EFTA may only start working in Switzerland after having lived in the country for six months.
If you take up a job, you must inform the Migration Office. A confirmation from the university that you are allowed to work is usually required. You can obtain this from the dean's office of your subject of study.
To apply for a residence permit, you require financial proof confirming that you will be able to pay the minimum living expenses of CHF 1,500 a month (a bank statement from your bank account or a written guarantee from a person supporting you with CHF 1,500 a month with bank statement and a copy of the person's passport).
Living expenses
To help you plan your stay, we have listed the estimated monthly living expenses:
| Expenses for |
around CHF per month |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (potential additional costs: telephone, internet, Serafe*) | 620 - 800 |
| Health / medical insurance | 180 - 400 |
| Food, household goods | 400 - 500 |
| Public transport |
100 |
| Course material | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 100 - 300 |
| TOTAL | 1,500 - 2,200 |
* Every household in Switzerland is obligated to pay the radio and television fees. Your fees contribute to the public service offered by radio and television broadcasting in Switzerland. You have to pay the radio and television fees even if you pay for cable TV in your ancillary costs. You don't need to register, the bill will be sent directly to every household. Detailed information are available on the Serafe website.