Legal

Betreibung

Debt Collection Process

Simple Definition

The official Swiss state-run system for collecting debts.

Why this matters to Expats.

Anyone can start a "Betreibung" against you for CHF 17. You will get a "Zahlungsbefehl" (Order to Pay). If you don't pay or object ("Rechtsvorschlag") within 10 days, you are in trouble.

Actionable Intelligence

Rechtsvorschlag: If the claim is false, you MUST tick the box "Rechtsvorschlag" and sign it immediately. This stops the process and forces the creditor to prove the debt in court.