Expat communities in Switzerland

Find your social and professional network in your host city

Joining an expat community is often the first step in building a social network in your new country. Switzerland hosts more than 2.3 million foreign residents, or around 26% of its population, and expatriate communities are particularly active in large cities. Whether you are looking for professional contacts, friends for your children or simply people who share your experience, this guide directs you to the right resources.

International associations by city

Each major Swiss city has associations dedicated to welcoming new international residents. These organizations offer networking events, language courses, guided tours and administrative support.

Geneva

Geneva is the most international city in Switzerland, with almost 40% foreign residents. The CAGI (Geneva International Reception Center) is the official reception organization. Genève Accueil offers cultural activities and French courses. The Geneva International Women's Club organizes monthly activities.

Zurich

Stadt Zürich offers an official welcome program (Welcome Package) for new residents. The International Women's Association of Zurich (IWAZ) offers a variety of activities. Many networking events are organized for international professionals.

Lausanne

Lausanne Accueil is a recognized association which organizes activities and courses for new residents. The International Link, supported by the City of Lausanne, facilitates the integration of foreigners. The Cercle Diplomatique de Lausanne is active for the international community.

Basel

Basel Connect is the official portal for expatriates in the Basel region. The International Women's Club of Basel organizes regular events. GGG Basel offers language courses and integration activities. The expat community in Basel is strongly linked to the pharmaceutical industries (Roche, Novartis).

Clubs by nationality

Many clubs bring together expatriates by nationality or linguistic affinity. The Alliance Française is present in all major Swiss cities. The British-Swiss Chamber of Commerce organizes professional and social events. The American Women's Club, present in Zurich, Geneva, Bern and Basel, is one of the oldest and most active clubs.

Other active national communities include: the Club Español de Suiza, the Association of Japanese in Switzerland, the Indian Association of Zurich and the Korean Association in Switzerland. Consult the register of associations in your municipality for a complete inventory.

Networking events

InterNations is the largest networking platform for expats, with active groups in Geneva, Zurich, Lausanne, Bern and Basel. Monthly events bring together 50 to 200 participants. Basic registration is free.

Meetup.com offers hundreds of groups in Switzerland: hiking, tastings, coding clubs, expat parent groups, language exchanges. The after-work sessions of the bilateral chambers of commerce are also excellent networking opportunities.

Online platforms

English Forum Switzerland (englishforum.ch) is the most popular online forum for English-speaking expats in Switzerland. Discussions cover jobs, housing, taxes, health and daily life. Expatica Switzerland provides regularly updated practical guides.

On Facebook, the groups “Expats in Geneva”, “Expats in Zurich”, “Lausanne International Community” and “New in Bern” each have between 5,000 and 30,000 members and are a mine of practical information.

Group sport and leisure

Sport is an excellent vector of integration in Switzerland. International hiking clubs organize outings every weekend — an emblematic activity of Swiss life. Running clubs, tennis, paddle and recreational football clubs are particularly popular with expatriates.

Skiing in winter and hiking in summer provide natural opportunities to socialize. Many expatriate associations organize ski weekends and nature outings. The gyms also offer group classes ideal for meetings.

Volunteering and commitment

Volunteering (Freiwilligenarbeit) is highly valued in Switzerland and is an effective way to integrate while contributing to society. Benevol Suisse centralizes volunteering offers throughout Switzerland. The Swiss Red Cross, Caritas and Pro Senectute are regularly looking for volunteers.

Getting involved in parent-teacher associations or the neighborhood council is also an excellent way to build links with the local Swiss community.

Useful Guides

Guide Finding an Apartment in Switzerland Guide Preparing Your Rental Application in Switzerland Guide Rental Deposit in Switzerland Guide Health Insurance in Switzerland

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I approach my first expat event?

Networking events like InterNations or after-works of chambers of commerce are designed to facilitate meetings. Come alone — it's easier to start a conversation. Organizers often welcome newcomers and facilitate introductions. Prepare a brief presentation: where you come from, how long you have been in Switzerland, what you do. Don’t hesitate to exchange contact details and suggest a follow-up coffee.

What activities exist for families with children?

Many associations offer activities specifically for expat families: playgroups for toddlers (0-5 years), after-school activities, multilingual holiday camps. The Parents' Associations of international schools organize regular events. On Meetup and Facebook, the “Expat Parents” groups are very active. Municipal libraries also offer story times in several languages.

Are the events in English or the local language?

It depends on the community. InterNations and international clubs operate primarily in English. The local Vereine use the language of the region. In Geneva and Zurich, English is very widespread, while in Lausanne, French dominates even in international circles.