Digital Nomad Life in Bern, Switzerland

"Finding a place to live in Bern involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on areas that are affordable for you. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Bern to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some factors to consider include proximity to work or school, availability of public transportation, safety, and the presence of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you have a neighborhood in mind, you can start looking for available properties. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for apartments and houses for rent or sale in Bern, such as Homegate, ImmoScout24, and Comparis. When you find a property you're interested in, contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. It's important to see the property in person before making a decision. During the viewing, ask questions about the property, such as the cost of utilities, rules about pets, and any maintenance issues. If you decide to proceed with the property, you'll need to fill out an application and provide references. In Switzerland, it's common for landlords to require a deposit, which is usually equivalent to one to three months' rent. Once your application is approved, you'll sign a lease agreement. Be sure to read the lease carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Finally, before moving in, it's a good idea to document the condition of the property with photos. This can help protect you from being held responsible for any damage that was present before you moved in. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's best to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Bern.

"Expats in Bern often appreciate the cleanliness and orderliness of the city, which is a reflection of the local culture's emphasis on respect for public spaces. They also value the Swiss punctuality and efficiency, which is evident in the public transportation system and in business dealings. The local culture's emphasis on outdoor activities and healthy living is also appreciated, with ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and cycling. Expats also often mention the high quality of life, including excellent healthcare and education systems. The local food and drink culture, particularly the cheese and chocolate, is another aspect that expats enjoy. Lastly, many expats appreciate the Swiss people's respect for privacy and their direct but polite communication style," said one expat in Bern.

"Expats in Bern often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Although English is widely spoken, the official language is Swiss German, which is quite different from standard German. Another challenge is the Swiss people's value for privacy and personal space, which can come off as cold or distant to newcomers. It can take time to form close relationships with locals. The Swiss are also known for their punctuality and strict adherence to rules, which can be difficult for expats from more relaxed cultures. The cost of living in Bern is also high, which can be a shock for expats, especially those from countries with a lower cost of living. Additionally, the Swiss are very environmentally conscious, and there are strict rules about recycling and waste disposal, which can be confusing for newcomers. Finally, the Swiss work culture is very professional and formal, which can be a challenge for expats used to a more casual work environment," said one person in Bern.

"If you are planning to stay in Bern for a while, the type of residency documents or visas you need will depend on your purpose of stay and your nationality. If you are a citizen of an EU or EFTA country, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence permit from the cantonal migration offices in Switzerland. If you are a non-EU/EFTA citizen, you will need a visa for any stay longer than 90 days. The type of visa you need will depend on your purpose of stay. For example, if you are planning to work in Switzerland, you will need a work visa. If you are planning to study, you will need a student visa. In addition to the visa, you will also need to apply for a residence permit if you are planning to stay for more than 90 days. The residence permit application should be submitted to the cantonal migration offices in Switzerland. Regardless of your nationality, if you are planning to stay in Switzerland for more than one year, you will need to apply for a biometric residence card. This card contains your personal details, a photograph and two fingerprints. In all cases, you should ensure that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Switzerland. Please note that the visa application process can take several weeks, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel date," said one person in Bern.

"In Bern, it is considered rude to be late for appointments or meetings, as punctuality is highly valued in Swiss culture. It's also important to respect the Swiss love for quiet and peace, so avoid making loud noises in public places, especially on Sundays when many activities are restricted due to noise regulations. When dining, it's considered impolite to start eating before everyone has been served their food. Also, keep in mind that tipping is not customary in Switzerland as service charge is usually included in the bill. In conversation, avoid discussing personal matters, as the Swiss tend to be private and reserved. It's also considered impolite to ask about someone's salary or wealth. When using public transportation, it's important to give up your seat for elderly or pregnant passengers. Also, remember to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines. In general, the Swiss value cleanliness and order, so littering is frowned upon. It's also important to respect the environment by not picking flowers or disturbing wildlife in public parks. Finally, when greeting someone, a firm handshake while maintaining eye contact is the norm. Kissing on the cheeks is reserved for close friends and family," said one person in Bern.