Tax return for expats in Switzerland
As an expat, you can rest assured that your tax return is in good hands with us. We are familiar with all the rules and will support you in complex cases involving residence or income.
Important information
* Processing takes place in the order in which orders are received. Work begins only once all required information and documents have been submitted in full. The necessary deadline extension will be arranged by us.
** For all orders, a deadline extension will be requested up to the latest possible date, provided this is still available.
Apply for subsequent ordinary tax assessment
For individuals taxed at source with residence or income in Switzerland who want to make the most of their tax return.
Tax situation and challenges for expats
For expats in Switzerland, filing a tax return can be uncertain due to different cantonal regulations, language barriers, and questions about withholding tax or ordinary assessments.
One common issue is the request for a subsequent ordinary tax assessment (SOTA), which may be necessary when there is a change in income or deductions need to be claimed. Living in one canton and working in another raises questions, particularly in international employment situations.
Practical issues also play a role. Which documents need to be translated? Which income or assets abroad must be declared? How does moving within Switzerland affect tax liability?
These questions are particularly important for expats who are being taxed in Switzerland for the first time, who already own assets abroad, or who earn income above the withholding tax threshold. Structured and compliant tax filing helps avoid later inquiries from the tax authorities and ensures all relevant aspects are declared correctly.
Our team specializes in helping expats declare international income, complete SOTA applications, and correctly allocate taxable elements, while considering double taxation agreements and cantonal differences.
Frequently asked questions
This section gives you an overview of the most common tax challenges expats in Switzerland encounter.
I have only recently moved to Switzerland – do I already need to file a tax return?
Yes. Depending on your permit type and canton, you may need to file a tax return in your first year. This is particularly true if you earn income that is not covered by withholding tax, such as from freelance work or a higher salary.
My income is taxed at source – do I still have to file a tax return?
It depends on your income, marital status, and residence permit. If you earn above certain limits or wish to claim deductions, you will need an additional ordinary tax assessment (SOTA). This must be requested annually, and we can submit the application for you for CHF 80.
What does living and working in different cantons mean for my taxes?
In Switzerland, your place of residence usually determines where you pay taxes. However, things can become more complex if your work canton has withheld taxes or if you earn additional income there. In these cases, an adjustment or subsequent assessment may be necessary.
Do I need to declare foreign income or accounts in my Swiss tax return?
Yes, Switzerland imposes worldwide taxation. All income and assets, including those abroad, must be declared on your Swiss tax return. This is also relevant in connection with double taxation agreements between Switzerland and your home country.
What documents are required when filing a tax return?
You will need to provide salary slips, bank statements, proof of rent, insurance records, and foreign documents, such as pension or property details, if relevant. You will be asked to upload all required files during the process. If anything is missing, a specialist will contact you.
The right tax solution for every situation
Private individuals
Whether you have moved, earn additional income, or contribute to pillar 3a – we ensure accurate declaration and maximize your deductions.
Students
With valid proof of study, you benefit from a lower price – while also gaining extra tax savings through targeted deductions.
Families
Deductions related to family, children, and partnership – we make sure nothing is overlooked and everything is calculated correctly.
Couples
Whether married or in a partnership – we clarify tax responsibilities in detail and provide full support with joint filing.
Retirees
We make sure your pension income is declared correctly and that all possible deductions are fully taken into account.
Self-employed
We take care of the accurate declaration of your tax data, ensuring everything is filed properly so that you can fully focus on your business.
Companies
From provisions and depreciation to business deductions – we make sure your tax return is complete and fully compliant.
Startups
We support startups with the correct declaration of capital shares, incorporation expenses, and all other tax-relevant details.

Do you have any questions?
If your tax situation doesn’t quite match one of our packages, or you’re unsure whether a SOTA application makes sense for you, our specialists are here to help.