Household
Find your long-term apartment
Overview
Now you can view apartments and apply.
The question you never knew to ask“What documents do landlords expect, and how do I spot a fake listing?”
Why it matters
A long-term lease decides your commune, school and much of daily life.
Does this apply to me?
Your circumstances: Canton Bern, B permit, mixed nationalities, family with children, moving with a partner, arriving soon
Because you are starting in temporary housing.
When?
Once you have arrived.
What do I need?
- Passport and permit (or proof it is on its way)
- Debt enforcement register extract
- Employment contract or salary confirmation
- References, if you have them
What do I do next?
- Prepare one application pack and reuse it.
- Order your debt enforcement register extract.
- Book viewings and apply quickly for the ones you like.
- Never pay a deposit before you have seen the apartment and signed.
- Ask how the deposit will be held: a rent deposit account in your name, or a deposit guarantee such as SwissCaution (see Resources).
Official guidance
Read official guidance from the Swiss authorities' joint information site (federal, cantonal and communal):
ch.ch: extract from the debt enforcement registerRead official guidance from the Swiss authorities' joint information site (federal, cantonal and communal):
ch.ch: rental agreementsRead official guidance from the Federal Office for Housing:
Federal Office for Housing: renting in Switzerland (English guide, PDF)
Useful resources
Our guide: Finding an apartment in Switzerland