September 2024: 9 Important Changes for Expats in Switzerland

As we move into September, with National Day celebrations behind us and schools back in session, people in Switzerland are preparing for the end of summer. Here are some important changes happening this month that you should know about:

1. Insurance Cold Calls Banned

Starting September 1, cold-calling from health insurance companies and other private insurers will be banned. This means fewer unwanted phone calls for people in Switzerland. Companies that break this rule could face fines of up to 100,000 francs.

2. Possible Changes in Rental Costs

On September 1, the Federal Office for Housing (BWO) will announce the new reference interest rate for Swiss mortgages. This rate can affect how much rent landlords can charge. Experts don’t expect the rate to change this time, but it’s possible that it may decrease in the next two years, allowing tenants to request lower rents.

3. Gotthard Base Tunnel Reopening

The Gotthard Base Tunnel, which connects major cities in Switzerland with Ticino and Italy, will fully reopen on September 2. This will make train journeys through the mountains faster by about an hour, after repairs were made following a derailment in August.

4. September Referendums

On September 22, Swiss citizens will vote on several federal initiatives, including changes to pensions and a proposal to better protect biodiversity in Switzerland.

5. Health Insurance Premiums Update

In early September, the Swiss government will likely announce whether health insurance premiums will increase in 2025. Unfortunately, due to rising healthcare costs, another increase is expected, with predictions of a 6 percent rise.

6. Body Cameras for Transport Police

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) will start equipping their Transport Police with body cameras in September. The cameras will be used to help prevent conflicts and can be turned on if needed during interactions.

7. University Term Starts

The autumn term at Swiss universities will begin on September 16. This includes all 11 major universities, Universities of Applied Sciences and Arts, and other technical colleges.

8. September Holidays

While September doesn’t have as many big holidays as other months, there are still a few to look forward to:

1. • Jeûne genevois on September 5 in Geneva: A day of fasting and thanksgiving.
   • Knabenschiessen on September 9 in Zurich: A youth shooting competition.
   • Federal Day of Thanksgiving, Repentance, and Prayer on September 15: Celebrated in many cantons, with a day off in Vaud on September 16.

9. End of Summer

On September 22, the autumnal equinox will mark the official end of summer in Switzerland. While some may miss the summer activities, others will look forward to the beauty of autumn, with its colorful leaves, chestnuts, and seasonal foods in Swiss supermarkets.