Foreigners' Property Purchase Rights in Switzerland's Cantons

Switzerland is a popular destination for foreigners who are seeking a high-quality life, a well-developed economy, and a well-preserved natural environment. As a result of its unique political structure, Switzerland has 26 cantons with varying laws and regulations. One of the most common questions that foreigners have is whether they can purchase property in Switzerland. In this article, we will explore the property purchase rights of foreigners in each of Switzerland's cantons.

Bern

Bern is the only canton in which foreigners cannot purchase property. The canton's constitution states that only Swiss citizens and permanent residents can own property in Bern. This rule is aimed at preserving the traditional structure of Swiss society and preventing the rapid gentrification that has occurred in some other cantons.

Glarus

In Glarus, foreigners can purchase property as long as they are at least 35 years old. This is one of the most restrictive policies in Switzerland, and it is primarily aimed at protecting the interests of Swiss citizens.

Appenzell

Appenzell is divided into two parts: Appenzell Innerrhoden and Appenzell Ausserrhoden. Foreigners can purchase property in both parts, but there are some limitations. For example, foreigners must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector.

Basel-Stadt and Basel-Land

In Basel, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

Schwyz

In Schwyz, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

Solothurn

In Solothurn, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

Unerikon

In Untereriken, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

Vaud

In Vaud, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

Zug

In Zug, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

Zurich

In Zurich, foreigners can purchase property as long as they meet certain requirements. For example, they must have a stable income and must not be employed in the canton's public sector. Additionally, foreigners must have resided in Switzerland for at least one year before purchasing property.

While foreigners cannot purchase property in Bern and Glarus, they can purchase property in 19 of Switzerland's 26 cantons. However, there are often limitations and requirements that must be met, such as a stable income and residing in Switzerland for at least one year. It is essential for foreigners who are considering purchasing property in Switzerland to research the laws and regulations in the canton they plan to purchase property in.