Expatica Switzerland: Government and Law in Switzerland

Expat Guide

Government & Law in Switzerland

Understanding the legal and governmental systems as an expat living in Switzerland can be confusing. That’s why we’ve put together some expert guides to help you understand government and law in Switzerland, including information on everything from the political system to LGBT+ rights.

Switzerland government Switzerland government

A guide to Switzerland’s government and political system

 Switzerland is home to autonomous cantons, four national languages, a long tradition of direct democracy, and a unique federal government.
Registration Switzerland Registration Switzerland

Registering at your address in Switzerland

 When moving to or within Switzerland, you need to register at your address. Learn about the registration process, documents and requirements.
Swiss social security Swiss social security

Swiss social security and claiming benefits

 From unemployment benefits to pensions, and everything in between, we explain how Swiss social security works in the alpine nation.
Switzerland crime rate Switzerland crime rate

Switzerland’s crime rates and the legal system

 New in Switzerland? Find out about Switzerland’s crime rate and legal system with our helpful guide.
Switzerland LGBT Switzerland LGBT

LGBT+ rights in Switzerland

 From gay marriage to societal attitudes and recent laws, we explore all there is to know about LGBT+ rights in Switzerland.
Women's rights in Switzerland Women's rights in Switzerland

Women’s rights in Switzerland

 From political and economic rights to protections against discrimination and violence, we explore women’s rights in Switzerland.
Switzerland human rights Switzerland human rights

Human and civil rights in Switzerland

 How are human rights protected in Switzerland? Find out what to expect in terms of political freedoms and attitudes towards different groups.
Strange Swiss laws Strange Swiss laws

10 strange Swiss laws

 You may be surprised at some of the things that are illegal in Switzerland. Then again, some others are surprisingly legal.
Switzerland drug laws Switzerland drug laws

A guide to Switzerland’s drug laws

 It took a controversial break from tradition for Switzerland to erase its national embarrassment: it started handing out heroin and drugs to addicts.
Swiss cantons Swiss cantons

Swiss cantons: a guide to Switzerland’s regions

 The Swiss Confederation is home to 26 fairly independent cantons. What exactly is the role of Swiss cantons in everyday life?
Switzerland coronavirus Switzerland coronavirus

Coronavirus in Switzerland: COVID-19 information and support

 Keep up-to-date with COVID-19 regulations, support, vaccines, and more with our guide to coronavirus in Switzerland.
Switzerland holidays Switzerland holidays

Public holidays in Switzerland: important dates in 2022 and 2023

 Find out all about Switzerland’s public holidays 2022 and 2023, as well as other important dates to make a note of on your calendar.
Emergency number Switzerland Emergency number Switzerland

Emergency numbers in Switzerland

 Do you know the emergency number in Switzerland? Find out this and more with our guide to Swiss services.
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