• Since formalities and deadlines may vary depending on your situation, we recommend that you contact the relevant authorities in your future place of residence.
• Many municipalities also publish information online. If you do not find what you are looking for or if the information is not available in your language, we will be happy to make further inquiries for you.
  
  
• As a general rule, you must report in person to the Residents' Office in your municipality within 14 days of your arrival.
  • If your place of residence is in the city of Bern: Bern, Residents’ Office 
  • If your place of residence is in the city of Thun: Thun, Residents’ Office 
  • If your place of residence is in the city of Biel: Biel, Policies & Administration 
  • If your place of residence is in another municipality in the Canton of Bern: Office for Population Services 
    
    
• You can register your new address online, Post Address Changes
  
  
• Additional important information
  • ch.ch: Relocation
  • FCA: Bringing Items into Switzerland 

• A person is considered to be a weekly resident if they travel back to their main residence at least once a week. Formalities for weekly residents in the City of Bern: Relocation
  
  
• Special rules apply to weekly residents with regard to taxes and social security systems. See also Private Pensions and Taxes

• Overview of moving companies and rental furniture: Swiss Movers Association (SMA)

• FCA, Moving with Pets

In the Canton of Bern, it is not mandatory to take a dog owner course, but everyone, including diplomats, has to register their dogs on the amicus platform. Diplomats are not exempt from paying the dog fee.

• City of Bern, New to Bern
• EWB, Moving Tips
• ch.ch, Checklists for Your Move

• Entry and residence permits are regulated by law and may vary due to many factors. Before entering Switzerland, you need to be fully informed of the conditions that apply to you.
  
  
• Certain individuals require a valid visa to enter the country. Please contact your local Swiss embassy or consulate well in advance if you require a visa to enter Switzerland.
  
  
• See also Work Permit

• Your corresponding Swiss municipality is responsible for family reunifications and visa extensions.
  
  
• Individuals with privileged status are asked to contact the FDFA Protocol (bilateral) or the Protocol service of the Mission of Switzerland (multilateral) for questions relating to work permits (self-employment) and family reunification.

• SEM, Entry and Residence
• Canton of Bern, Living in Bern

• FCA: Duty-Free Allowances (food, alcohol, tobacco, etc.). Please pay particular attention to the rules for importing goods of animal origin and goods from third countries. 
• FCA: Watches, Jewelry, Precious Metals (zero tolerance for counterfeits!) 
• FCA: Prohibitions & Restrictions (cultural objects, weapons, animals, souvenirs, medications, etc.) 
  
  
• Individuals with privileged status enjoy certain customs rights. The FDFA Protocol (bilateral), or the Protocol service of the Mission of Switzerland (multilateral) are great resources to help with any further questions.

• The International Bern Welcome Desk organizes a welcome event for the international community in English twice a year. Register here for the next welcome event for the international community.
  
  
• Many municipalities organize welcome events for their residents. If you have registered with the municipality, you will receive an invitation. The City of Bern hosts a welcome event for new arrivals twice a year.