Legal

Einwohnerkontrolle

Residents' Registry Office

Simple Definition

The specific department within the Gemeinde that manages the population register. The "Front Desk" of Switzerland.

Why this matters to Expats.

The 14-Day Rule: You MUST register here within 14 days of arriving or moving. Failure triggers fines. You also need them for "Address Confirmations" (Wohnsitzbestätigung) to prove you live there.

Actionable Intelligence

Deregistration: Crucial! You cannot register in a new place until you have papers showing you deregistered from the old one (Abmeldung).

Documents Needed: Passport, Lease Contract, Work Contract, Marriage Cert (if applicable), and Photos.

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