Important April 2024 Updates For Expats In Switzerland

In April 2024, several significant events are taking place in Switzerland. Here are eight important things to know about:

1. Rent Increase:

Many people renting houses or apartments in Switzerland will experience higher costs due to an increase in the reference interest rate for Swiss mortgages. Landlords are allowed to raise rents by 3 percent for tenants who applied for a rent reduction or rented a new place since June 2017. This change will come into effect on April 1, 2024.

2. Changes in Driving Rules:
Starting from April 1, new vehicles sold and registered in Switzerland must have accident data recorders and driver assistance systems. Additionally, new e-bikes with pedal assistance up to 45 kilometers per hour need to be equipped with a speedometer. Owners of fast e-bikes have until April 1, 2027, to comply with this rule.

3. Discontinuation of Leisure Travelcard:
The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) will stop selling the Leisure Travelcard, which provided unlimited public transport access for holders of Half-Fare Travelcards. However, previously purchased tickets will remain valid for one year, and travelers are advised to use the Half Fare Travelcard PLUS system instead.

4. Abolishment of Account Management Fees:
Two Swiss cantonal banks, St. Galler Kantonalbank (SGKB) and Thurgauer Kantonalbank (TKB), will eliminate account management fees on private accounts starting April 1, 2024. This change is expected to save account holders an average of 60 francs per year.

5. Inclusion of Telemedicinal Treatments:
From April 2024, Swiss health insurance will cover telemedical treatments for heart failure as part of basic health insurance. This includes remote consultations, monitoring, medications, and interventions for patients with heart failure.

6. Geneva’s Disposable Tableware Ban:
Beginning April 2, the city of Geneva will restrict the use of disposable tableware at public events. Organizers will be required to use reusable tableware to reduce waste and conserve resources.

7. Sechseläuten:
On April 15, Zurich celebrates Sechseläuten, during which a giant snowman is burnt in Sechseläuten square. This tradition predicts the weather for the upcoming summer based on how long it takes for the snowman’s head to explode.

8. End of Ski Season and School Holidays:
Easter Monday falls on April 1, marking the end of the ski season for most Swiss resorts. Additionally, many Swiss schools have spring break in the first two weeks of April.