Finances
The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Cashless payments are becoming more common, so most stores and restaurants are equipped with credit-card readers. Some places also accept Euros (EUR), but the change you will receive will be in CHF.
In Switzerland, the sales tax is included in all the prices you will see, and there is no obligation to leave a tip – though a few Francs to reward a job well done is always appreciated by service staff.
Banks
If you receive a salary from Unifr, you will need to open a Bank account with a Swiss bank or the Swiss Post.
Here are some of the documents you may need to open a bank account (note: this list is only indicative)
- Residence permit
- Valid identification
- Work contract
- Invitation letter from Unifr
Usually, a debit card will be attached to your bank account. This card will allow you to pay at stores and restaurants and to withdraw money at ATMs.
A Swiss bank account also grants access to TWINT, Switzerland’s widely used payment app.
Please note that since you will need to present a residence permit to open a bank account, it may take a while for you to have a local account. Be sure to bring sufficient cash or a credit card that functions in Switzerland for the first few weeks of your stay.
Taxes
You will have to pay taxes if Switzerland becomes your official country of residence and/or if you receive a salary from Unifr.
As a foreign national, you will likely be subject to the source taxation procedure (withholding tax). It means that your taxes will be deducted directly from your monthly salary.
The taxes you will have to pay will depend on your salary, personal circumstances, and marital status. Here is the list of the different rates that are applied in the canton of Fribourg in French or German.
You will be required to pay the radio and television fee (serafe). It costs CHF 335 per year and per household and will be your contribution to public media.
Anyone who does not sign up to become a firefighter will also have to pay the “non-firefighter tax.” This tax is CHF 100/year.