Swiss Tax Return for Expats in Switzerland
Many expats living in Switzerland are unsure whether they need to file a tax return or whether they could receive a tax refund. EasyFinTax provides professional support with Swiss tax returns, voluntary taxation (NOV), and tax deductions across all Swiss cantons
Taxes in Switzerland for Expats
Understanding the Swiss tax system can be confusing for many expats.
Most expats working in Switzerland are taxed depending on their residence permit and income level. Foreign employees holding a B-permit are usually taxed at source (withholding tax), meaning that income tax is deducted directly from their monthly salary by their employer.
In many cases, individuals taxed at source do not need to submit a tax return. However, a tax return becomes mandatory if the annual income exceeds CHF 120,000.
In addition, some cantons may also require a tax return if a person holds significant assets, typically between CHF 80,000 and CHF 100,000 or more. Assets include bank accounts, investment portfolios, and real estate.
Even if a tax return is not mandatory, some expats may still choose to submit a voluntary tax return in order to claim deductions and potentially receive a tax refund.
Voluntary Taxation (NOV)
In some cases, B-permit holders may benefit from requesting voluntary taxation (nachträgliche ordentliche Veranlagung, NOV). This allows them to submit a full tax return and claim additional deductions.
Typical deductions include pillar 3a contributions, insurance premiums, professional expenses such as commuting or work-related meals, childcare costs, and in some cases financial support for parents or family members abroad who have insufficient income or pension.
The request for voluntary taxation must usually be submitted before March 31 of the following year for the relevant tax year. It is important to know that once voluntary taxation has been requested, a tax return generally needs to be filed every year going forward.
If you are unsure whether voluntary taxation is beneficial in your case, a tax simulation can help estimate whether you are likely to receive a tax refund.
In many cases, expats receive tax refunds of approximately CHF 1,000 to CHF 3,000, depending on income, canton, and deduction
How the Swiss Tax Return Process Works
1. Initial consultation (free of charge
We discuss your situation and the documents required for your tax return.
2. Upload of documents
You upload the necessary documents securely through the customer portal.
3. Preparation of the tax return
Once all documents are uploaded, the tax return is usually prepared within approximately one week
4. Follow-up meeting
During a follow-up meeting, I explain the tax return in detail and answer any questions.
5. Submission to the tax office
After your approval, the tax return will be submitted to the tax authorities.
Transparent Pricing
First tax return
Single: CHF 99
Married: CHF 119
The price includes up to 10 bank accounts or securities.
Additional accounts or securities are charged at CHF 5 per item.
If property in Switzerland or abroad needs to be declared, an additional fee may apply.