Buying Property in Switzerland as a Foreigner: Lex Koller Explained Simply
What is the Lex Koller?
The Lex Koller (Federal Act on the Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad) restricts property purchases by non-residents. The principle: those not living in Switzerland may buy residential property only with a permit – and permits exist only in certain cases. Violations can reverse the purchase.
The key exception: holiday homes in tourist zones
In recognised tourist zones – such as Gstaad, St. Moritz, Verbier, Zermatt or Andermatt – non-residents can buy holiday apartments and chalets with a cantonal permit. Quotas are limited and allocated annually: before buying, have the permit eligibility of the specific property checked before any promise.
- Obtain the cantonal permit – before buying
- Respect maximum net living area and usage restrictions
- Quotas are limited annually – check early
- Corporate structures to circumvent the law are illegal
Residents and EU citizens: simpler rules
Those resident in Switzerland (B or C permit) may generally buy freely at their place of residence – the restrictions mainly concern non-residents and second homes away from one's place of residence. EU/EFTA citizens with main residence in Switzerland are largely treated like Swiss nationals.
After the purchase: do not forget property care
Buyers without Swiss residence are on site only a few weeks a year – that is exactly when care decides value preservation: home watch, key holding, contractor coordination and communication with authorities and managers in the local language. Plan it from the start.
How Swiss PA Services supports owners
We do not replace legal advice – but we care for your property after the purchase: inspections, maintenance, arrival service and all on-site coordination, with reports in German or English. Free initial consultation, reply within 24 hours.