Swiss government plans to restrict property purchases by foreigners; most new doctors practicing in Switzerland are foreign nationals; plus other news in our Thursday roundup.
Government plans to restrict purchases of real estate by foreigners
Foreigners will be required to obtain a permit before purchasing a home in Switzerland, the Federal Council announced on Wednesday.
In an effort to combat the housing shortage, the government intends to make the access to primary residences by nationals of countries outside the European Union and EFTA (Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein) subject to special authorisation.
The Federal Council also plans to tighten restrictions regarding holiday homes. The annual quotas available to the cantons for purchases of these residences by third-country citizens will be reduced.
Additionally, sales between foreign nationals will be subject to authorisation.
READ MORE: What are Switzerland’s rules for foreigners buying property?
Most new doctors practicing in Switzerland are foreign nationals
Switzerland relies heavily on doctors trained abroad, who currently account for 43 percent of the country’s physicians.
“Switzerland is not able to ensure the renewal of its medical workforce on its own, as it does not train enough doctors,” according to the latest statistics from the Swiss Medical Association (FMH), released on Wednesday.
The proportion of foreign doctors therefore continues to rise: in 2025, 52 percent of the 1,132 new physicians were trained abroad..
READ MORE: Why Switzerland is worried about the rising number of foreign doctors?
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Due to Iran war, rich people from from Dubai seek refuge in Switzerland
Switzerland, and Zug in particular, is a magnet for wealthy people from Dubai, who are attracted to the country’s stability and the canton’s tax rate – the lowest in the country.
While exact numbers have not been released, “We are observing an increase in enquiries from Dubai,” said Heinz Tännler, the canton’s Finance Director.
“Of course, we regret the conflict, but we must acknowledge that Zug is benefiting from it,” he added.
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Swiss watchmakers are uncertain of effects of Mideast conflict on their trade
The Middle East war has plunged Swiss watchmakers into uncertainty, testing the iconic national industry already shaken by several crises.
According to Elie Bernheim, the chief executive of Raymond Weil watch manufacturer, the unusual aspect of current events in the Middle East is that “nothing can be anticipated.”
“Everything can change from one day to the next, we have no control, and I think that is the most destabilising thing,” he added.
Bernheim noted, however, that in the long run, Switzerland’s watchmaking industry “has demonstrated considerable resilience.” (AFP)
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