Switzerland plans to significantly tighten restrictions on the sale of real estate to foreigners
The Swiss Federal Council has proposed tightening legislation governing the purchase of housing by foreign nationals in order to curb speculation and address the shortage in the domestic market. The new rules return the regulations to their original purpose—protecting the national housing stock.
This was reported by the country’s Federal Council.
Key proposed changes:
Mandatory sale: Citizens of countries outside the EU will be required to sell their primary residence within two years of leaving Switzerland.
Purchase permits: A requirement is being introduced for non-residents to obtain a special permit to purchase even their primary residence.
Commercial restrictions: Foreigners will be prohibited from purchasing commercial properties for subsequent rental or leasing (purchases are permitted only for their own business activities).
Stock market: Foreign participation in real estate investment funds will be restricted to prevent indirect ownership of residential assets through the stock exchange.
These measures are part of a broader strategy by the Swiss government in response to demographic pressures. The reform will also affect vacation homes and aparthotels, for which regulations will become significantly stricter.
The Swiss Federal Council has officially scheduled a nationwide referendum on limiting the country’s population for June 14, 2026.
The upper house of the Swiss parliament voted to ease restrictions on arms exports to Western countries to support the domestic defense industry without violating the country’s neutrality. Previously, Switzerland had banned Germany, Spain, and Denmark from sending Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine.
