Foreigners outside Europe face tighter rules to buy Swiss homes

Non-EU and non-EFTA citizens will need permits to buy main residences in Switzerland and must sell them within two years of leaving under proposed changes to the country’s foreign real estate rules. The Swiss government plans to amend the 'Lex Koller' law, which restricts foreign ownership, to tighten access for nationals outside Europe. The move targets housing demand from non-European foreigners amid concerns over housing shortages and infrastructure strain. Under the proposals, such individuals will also be barred from acquiring commercial real estate purely for rental or investment purposes. Purchases of holiday homes will be curbed through reduced cantonal permit quotas and stricter resale rules. The Federal Council will hold consultations on the changes through mid-July. The measures aim to restrict long-term foreign ownership of Swiss residential property, particularly from non-European buyers.