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SWITZERLAND BUYING GUIDE
It is permissible for non-Swiss residents to own residential property in Switzerland,
although there are some federal and cantonal restrictions.
Lex Koller Explained
A federal piece of legislation was introduced in 1983 to restrict the number of foreigners
from acquiring real estate in Switzerland. Foreigners are deemed to be those within or
outside the EU/EFTA, who do not hold a valid Swiss residency permit. Lex Koller restricts
the number of permits (1,500) that are granted each year by the Federal Council to foreign
buyers. These are apportioned across the 26 cantons. Certain cantons are awarded more
than others, depending upon their reliance on tourism. Geneva or Zurich do not issue such
permits and it is therefore necessary to apply for Swiss residence to buy in either of these
two major cities. In locations where foreigners are permitted to buy, size restrictions of
between 200m2-250m2 are enforced. Owners must hold their property for a minimum of
5 years before re-selling. Certain exemptions apply.
Lex Weber Explained
In March 2012, the Swiss electorate narrowly voted in favour of restricting the number of
second homes in any given commune. The purpose behind this was to “put a stop to the
invasive spread of second homes” and to deter the proliferation of new buildings, especially
in mountain regions, which were increasingly left empty with their shutters closed.
The legislation became law on 1st January 2016 and stipulates:
“No more than 20 per cent of the total stock of residential units and the gross residential
floor area in any commune may be used as second homes”.