Switzerland

Switzerland

Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It shares borders with Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, high standard of living, political neutrality, and global financial and business hub.

The country covers an area of approximately 41,285 square kilometres and has a population of around 8.8 million people. Switzerland is also famous for its banking system, chocolate, watches, and multilingual society.

Key Country Information

  • Capital City: Bern

  • Head of State (Federal Council): Alain Berset (President of the Swiss Confederation 2024)

  • Official Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh

  • Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

  • International Dialing Code: +41

Population and Economy

As of 2024, Switzerland has an estimated population of 8.8 million. The country has a highly developed economy, with major sectors including banking and finance, pharmaceuticals, machinery, tourism, and services.

Switzerland is one of the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita, and its economy is known for stability, innovation, and global trade connections.

European Union and Schengen Status

Switzerland is not a member of the European Union:

  • EU Member State: ❌ Not a member

  • Euro Area Member: ❌ Uses Swiss Franc (CHF)

  • Schengen Area Member since: 2008

Switzerland participates in the Schengen Area, allowing passport-free travel across most European countries, but it is not part of the EU or Eurozone.

Living and Working in Switzerland

Switzerland is an attractive destination for foreign workers due to:

  • High demand for professionals in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and hospitality

  • Competitive salaries and excellent quality of life

  • Multilingual environment and strong international presence

  • Safety, cleanliness, and high standard of living

EU/EEA citizens can generally live and work in Switzerland with a residence permit. Non-EU citizens typically require a work permit or residence visa, which is tied to employment type and duration.

Summary

Switzerland is a Central European country with a strong economy, multilingual society, and Schengen integration. While it is not part of the EU or Eurozone, its stability, high standard of living, and demand for skilled labor make it a highly attractive destination for work, business, and long-term residence.