Essential info for Switzerland
Time: The local time in Switzerland is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between March and October).
Electricity: The electrical current in Switzerland is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are of the linear, rounded three-pin type, but rounded two-pin plugs will fit the outlet.
Language: Switzerland has four official languages, namely Swiss German, French, Italian and Romansch, although the latter is only spoken by 1% of the population. Expats will be pleased to know that most Swiss people understand English, particularly in business settings, although if your understanding of one of the three languages is good so much the better.
Safety: Switzerland’s crime rate is very low with only petty criminals such as thieves and pickpockets operating in the larger cities and at public places like train stations. Expats who relocate here should exercise the same caution as they would in any other big city in the world and should be aware of robberies on overnight trains.
Safety: Switzerland’s crime rate is very low with only petty criminals such as thieves and pickpockets operating in the larger cities and at public places like train stations. Expats who relocate here should exercise the same caution as they would in any other big city in the world and should be aware of robberies on overnight trains.
Business: Business in Switzerland is formal and punctuality is vital for business meetings, but different styles vary depending on the type of business, as well as from the Swiss-French to the Swiss-German and Swiss-Italian side. For example, Swiss-Italian/French meetings frequently occur over meals while Swiss-German meetings don’t and are often brief and curt. Business suits are the norm for meetings for both men and women and handshakes are the acceptable form of greeting. Business hours are generally Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6.30pm.
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