These guidelines provide an overview of current Swiss Federal Law and Ordinance, as well as the complementary cantonal and communal provisions that restrict the acquisition of real estate in Switzerland by persons abroad. The guidelines are provided merely for information purposes and are not legally binding.
The sale of real estate to non-Swiss citizens is subject to several laws. Each canton has a yearly quota of properties authorised for sale to non-Swiss. This system came into effect on the 1st January 1985 and it's goal is to control the purchase of properties in Switzerland by non Swiss citizens.
An authorisation to purchase must be obtained from the Cantonal Authorities and
from the Federal Department of Justice and Police, through a Notary (in Switzerland they are Public Officers).
As a general rule, non Swiss may only buy one property per family and the net floor space and the surface area of the real estate must not exceed 200m2 and 1000m2 respectively. In accordance with consistent practice, larger areas are authorised automatically on proof of additional need up to 250m2 and to 1500m2 respectively.
Ownership of real estate in Switzerland in no way confers residence entitlement to the owner.
Hartmann Singleton is experienced in the process of obtaining authorisations to purchase and is on hand throughout the process to provide practical guidance and support
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