Legal

Heimatschein

Certificate of Origin

Simple Definition

The primary citizenship document for Swiss citizens. It stays deposited at the municipality where you strictly live.

Why this matters to Expats.

As a foreigner, you likely provide a Passport/Permit instead. But if you become Swiss, this becomes your "Holy Relic". You don't just belong to Switzerland; you belong to a "Bürgerort" (Place of Origin), even if you never lived there.

Actionable Intelligence

Safety: The Gemeinde LOCKS this in their safe while you live there. You only get it back when you move away.

Marriage: You need this (or equivalent) to get married.

The "Heimatort": It used to be responsible for your welfare if you went broke. Now it's mostly traditional.