Natural persons abroad
Natural persons abroad constitute the following:
- Non-Swiss citizens domiciled abroad
- Non-Swiss citizens domiciled in Switzerland who are neither citizens of a member state of the European Union or of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) nor possess a valid permanent residency permit category C
Not subject to BewG
This consequently means that the following are not subject to BewG:
- Swiss citizens domiciled in Switzerland or abroad
- Swiss citizens with dual nationality domiciled in Switzerland or abroad
- Citizens with lawful and actual residence in Switzerland
- with residence permit EU / EFTA B
- with permanent residency EU / EFTA C
- with temporary residence permit EU / EFTA L
- a person in the service of embassies, consulates or international organisations
- with a legitimation card issued by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
- a person in the service of foreign railway, postal or customs administrations domiciled in Switzerland
- with an official ID
- Citizens of other foreign states who are actually resident in Switzerland
- with valid permanent residency category C
Place of residence
Pursuant to the Swiss Civil Code (“ZGB”) 23 ff. the place of residence is where
- the person is staying with the intention of remaining permanently,
- the main focus of their personal life relationships is located,
- they stay outside their working hours, where they maintain relations with family or friends and take part in social life
Proof of residence
Non-Swiss citizens who wish to acquire real estate without a permit and who for this purpose cite their actual residency in Switzerland must furnish corresponding proof
The following are not in themselves sufficient:
- residence permit issued by the aliens’ police
- confirmation issued by the municipality concerning the established registration
Evidence of actual residency in Switzerland are:
- cohabitation with spouse or life partner and minor children
- employment relationship
- registration of a vehicle
- full obligation to pay tax
- regular active involvement in an association in Switzerland
Nationality of the spouse
It is irrespective whether the spouse of the acquirer is a Swiss citizen.