Everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in Switzerland
Category: News
Published: 16 September 2025
International teachers
A stunningly beautiful country known for its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and high standard of living, Switzerland’s excellent education system is highly regarded worldwide, with a strong emphasis on innovation and creativity in the classroom. Switzerland also boasts a multilingual population, with German, French, Italian, and Romansh all spoken within its borders.
As an international teacher in Switzerland, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and welcoming environment, where you can grow professionally and personally. You’ll be able to experience a unique blend of old-world charm and modernity, and enjoy some of the best food, wine, and outdoor recreation that Europe has to offer.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in Switzerland, including visa requirements, cost of living, healthcare, cultural expectations and norms, and expat communities.
Visa requirements for international teachers in Switzerland
International teachers must obtain a valid work visa before legally working in Switzerland. To be eligible you must first secure a job offer from a Swiss employer. Your educational qualifications must be recognised by Swiss authorities, typically through the Swiss ENIC or the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education (EDK).
You must provide:
Proof of financial support (approx. CHF 21,000–30,000/year)
A clean criminal record
Valid health insurance
The application process
Once a job offer is secured:
Employer applies for a work permit with the local cantonal authorities.
The application is reviewed and forwarded to the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
If approved, you apply for a national (D) visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.
Upon arrival, you must register with the local residents’ office within 14 days.
The process can take 3 to 6 months, so early preparation is essential.
Quota system
Switzerland enforces a quota system for non-EU/EFTA nationals. In 2025, there are 4,000 L permits (short-term) and 4,500 B permits (long-term) available. These quotas are distributed across cantons and the federal level. Employers must prove that no suitable candidate was available from Switzerland or the EU/EFTA region before hiring a non-EU/EFTA national.
Cost of living for international teachers in Switzerland
Switzerland is known for its high standard of living, which can come with a high cost. The cost of living for international teachers in Switzerland can vary depending on the region and the lifestyle they choose to lead. Generally, the major cities like Geneva, Zurich, and Basel are more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas. Accommodation can be a significant expense. Food, transportation, and healthcare are also relatively costly in Switzerland. However, salaries for teachers in Switzerland are typically high, and they can expect to earn a comfortable wage that can cover the cost of living. While the cost of living in Switzerland may be high, the benefits of living and working in this beautiful and dynamic country can make it a worthwhile experience for international teachers.
Cost of living in Zurich (USD)
Rent for one-bedroom apartment in city centre – $2,670 per month
Rent for one-bedroom apartment outside city centre – $2,300 per month
Loaf of bread – $3.30
Litre of milk – $2.25
12 eggs – $7.35
Takeaway coffee – $6.95
Meal for two at mid-range restaurant – $151.45
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant – $31.55
Public transport – $5.05 one way
Healthcare for international teachers in Switzerland
Switzerland has a comprehensive and high-quality healthcare system that provides universal coverage for all residents, including international teachers. The country’s healthcare system is based on a combination of private and public providers, with mandatory health insurance for all residents. International teachers who work in Switzerland are required to have Swiss health insurance, which offers a wide range of services, including primary care, hospitalisation, and specialist treatments.
The Swiss healthcare system is known for its efficiency and patient-centred approach, with short waiting times and access to cutting-edge medical technology. As a result, Switzerland consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for healthcare quality and patient satisfaction. Many international schools in Switzerland offer health insurance as part of their employment package.
Cultural expectations and norms for international teachers in Switzerland
First and foremost, punctuality is highly valued in Switzerland, and being on time is seen as a sign of respect and professionalism. Swiss culture is also known for being quite reserved, so it’s important to avoid overly familiar behaviour with colleagues and students. Additionally, dress codes are often more formal in Swiss schools than in other countries, so it’s important to dress professionally and conservatively.
In terms of language, while Swiss people speak several languages, Swiss German is the most commonly spoken language in many regions, so it’s beneficial to have some knowledge of this dialect. Finally, Swiss culture places a high value on work-life balance, so it’s important to prioritise personal time and rest outside of work hours.
Expat communities for international teachers in Switzerland
Switzerland has a vibrant and diverse expat community that can make the transition to living and working in the country much smoother for international teachers. There are many organisations and groups dedicated to supporting expats, including language classes, cultural events, and social gatherings.
The largest expat communities are located in cities such as Geneva, Zurich, and Basel, where many international organizations and businesses have their headquarters. These communities offer a range of resources, including information about housing, healthcare, and education, as well as opportunities to meet other expats and locals. Many international schools in Switzerland also have active expat communities, providing teachers with a built-in support network.
Our international schools in Switzerland
Ready to find out what Switzerland has to offer you? Explore our international schools in Switzerland now:
I have been a school-level user of Schrole for recruiting for the last three hiring cycles and have found the platform they provide to be intuitive and comprehensive. The user interface stands out from others in the market as a crisp interface with the right level of features included at the right places. For me, the top two features are the ability to create school-specific application questions for applicants, and the availability of a short and long form applicant documentation PDF. If you’re looking for a recruiting platform, I highly recommend considering Schrole.
Dr. Richard Granger
Deputy Principal of Secondary School
Taejon Christian International School
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