Can Foreigners Buy Property in Switzerland? The Lex Koller Rules
Which permits allow a home purchase, what is restricted and where to check the rules.
5 min read · Mortgage & Property
Switzerland restricts property purchases by people abroad under the so-called Lex Koller. Rules depend on your nationality, permit and the type of property.
Residents with a permit
- Swiss citizens and people with a C permit can buy freely.
- EU/EFTA citizens living in Switzerland can buy their main residence and, in many cases, are treated like Swiss for that purpose.
- Holders of a B permit may buy a home to live in, but not an investment property.
Example with default values. Open the calculator →
People living abroad
Non-residents generally need an official authorisation, which is granted only in specific cases, such as a holiday home in an area where cantonal quotas allow it. Buying residential property purely as an investment is not allowed.
Practical steps
- Ask the cantonal authority whether your case needs a permit.
- Check the notarial process: foreign-related purchases may add time.
- Plan for equity of at least 20 % and the closing costs.
- Discuss with your bank whether it lends to your residency status.
Rules change; ask the competent cantonal office and a notary. Use the equity calculator to size your purchase.