Americans that live/work in Switzerland?

Question

I hear that it's nearly impossible to reside in Switzerland if you are not part of EU/EFTA. I've been interested in staying and working in Switzerland for maybe a few years and wondered if anyone knew any tips for being able to get in.

Answer 1

My company has its' world headquarters in Switzerland!

I could probably get you in, but you'd likely have to start out in the call center, establish yourself, and then keep an eye on the intranet...they post open positions on there all the time.

Sie sprechen Deutsches, Recht?

Answer 2

Most of the Americans I know who live here got transferred in from a major Swiss bank, an insurance company or another company that's expanding in Switzerland, or they're doing a PhD or post-doc here. Or they're married to a Swiss.

Answer 3

If you are in the Hi Tech business or Medical research (pharmaceutical for ex.), you may have a little chance.  But before, learn at least one of the three main languages (do not need to be perfect, but it helps)

Answer 4

Try to find an American company or Swiss company that has branches in either country and try to contact them.

Tell them of your plans and particularly if you are a student, they sometimes offer temp positions to students wanting to gain experience.

Good luck!

Answer 5

You can break into the country using any good Swiss Army knife. Follow these simple directions:

Navigate over the Swiss Alps using the built-in compass.

If you get cold at any point you can always use the miniature magnifying glass to build a fire.

When you reach the border, cut down a small tree using the knife's built-in saw (this might take a while).

If you watched the most recent episode of Lost, you'll know what to do next (hmm... was that just a spoiler? *cough*). Lean the tree up against one of the many tall pylons that encircle Switzerland. Do not attempt to walk between the pylons as they generate an almost impenetrable force field of neutrality.

Shimmy over the tree using the can opener as a climbing pick. When you're well clear of the force field, simply drop down to the ground.

Hurray... you're in Switzerland!

Immediately put aside all extreme views and assume a calm, neutral expression.

To disguise yourself further, and avoid possible detection, pop a Ricola herbal lozenge and begin yodelling... or making watches... or whatever else they do in Switzerland.

Good luck!

Answer 6

i work there

[e-mail]

Answer 7

Your best bet is to get the job in your home country and then come on an expat package. You will, however have to speak German, French or Italian in order to be considered for a  position here.

Answer 8

Hmmmmmm...swiss chocolate.....