Tips for Indians to Save Money in Switzerland as a Foreigner
Tips to Save Money in Switzerland as a Foreigner
Studying or living in Switzerland can be thrilling but it is also costly. This guide will help both students and tourists to manage their budget better. You’ll get some practical tips and real-world advice on saving money in Switzerland as a foreigner.
Understanding the Cost of Living in Switzerland
Why Switzerland is expensive?
- Switzerland’s high living standards, excellent infrastructure and robust economy drive up the costs. Costly dinners, luxury goods and city life cost more here compared to many European countries.
- High Expenses and High cost of living particularly in major cities like Zurich and Geneva.
What do students typically spend a month for their living in Switzerland?
- Monthly budgets: CHF 2,400–2,600(including rent).
- Students in big cities may spend over CHF 3,000.
- Indian students often plan for €1,000–1,500 per month to save some money.
Key Areas of expenses costs
- Major expenses include rent, healthcare, food and transportation.
- Rent includes Accommodation costs and are a significant factor.
- Utilities to pay for like heating and water often add to monthly expenses.
- Other Expenses like health insurance, taxes and other living expenses.
Smart Strategies of Budget Management for Students
Budget and Track Expenses
- Set aside savings at the month’s start. Use simple tools or apps to track money.
- Track income and expenses by keeping receipts or notes.
This basic step helps avoid surprise shortfalls.
Choose Affordable Accommodation
- Strive and opt for CHF 700–1,200/month on shared housing.
- University dorms cost about CHF 600–800 and could be a better option.
- Inexpensive seasonal housing is sometimes cheaper.
- Consider rural or suburb living to reduce rent.
Use Budget-Friendly Transport
- Compare Swiss Travel Pass with Saver Day Pass or half-fare cards.
- Use BlaBlaCar for longer trips.
- Buy point-to-point tickets early for discounts.
Save on Food and Groceries
- Shop at Aldi, Migros or Coop to save money on groceries in Switzerland and Look for deals, as they are typically the cheapest options.
- Buy fresh items late for discounts—many stores discount perishable goods.
- Cook meals yourself at home instead of eating out. It costs less than CHF 80–125/week for food cooked at home.
- Eat modest meals in ethnic restaurants.
- Carry a reusable bottle to drink water since tap water is free and safe.
Monthly Saving Habits
Reduce Recurring Expenses
- Use budgeting methods like Kakebo or envelope systems.
- Set strict rules for discretionary spending.
- Pay rent and insurance bills on time since missing payments can lead to late fees.
Save on Taxes
- If you work, use contributions to save on taxes.
- Claim deductions like work meals or training costs.
- Residence location also affects tax rates. Opt for lower‑tax cantons in Switzerland.
Financial Aid
- Scholarships:
Explore scholarship and grant opportunities in Switzerland to help reduce the cost of living.
For full list of Top Scholarships in Switzerland for Indian Students: https://scoutabroad.com/blogs/top-scholarships-in-switzerland-for-indian-students - Education Loans: Consider applying for education loans to assist with expenses.
- Part-time Jobs: Consider finding and looking for a part-time job in Switzerland to supplement your income and reducing overall burden of costs
How Indian Tourists Can Save money in Switzerland
Enjoying Switzerland without Overspending
- Stay in small towns or villages instead of city centers.
- Use hostel or Airbnb sharing for cheaper accommodation.
- Pack snacks or light meals instead of buying roadside food.
- Carry your reusable water bottle; tap water is safe.
- Swap souvenirs for experiences or local crafts.
- Opt for public transport, bike sharing or ride‑sharing.
- Take free city bike programs like Zürich's Züri rollt.
Free or Cheap Attractions
- Explore city parks, free museums, public art and wildlife parks.
- Museum entry is often free on select days.
- Attend free tours of places like the Swiss Parliament.
Use Tourist and Guest Cards
- Stay overnight and get guest cards for free transport and discounts on attractions.
- Use Swiss youth hostels or SAC mountain huts.
- Use tourism cards with bundled deals for food and entry.
For Indians traveling to Europe, Read more for Schengen Visa Guide
https://scoutabroad.com/blogs/schengen-visa-guide-for-indians-traveling-to-europe
Important websites in Switzerland for Foreigners
- Switzerland Tourism official website:
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/ - Apply for a VISA to the Switzerland in India:
https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/switzerland/india/english/ - For managing public transport cards:
https://www.swiss-pass.ch/swiss-travel-pass - The official and largest tour operator for Switzerland, offering a wide range of travel packages including hotels, train travel and round trips:
https://switzerlandtravelcentre.com/en/switzerland-travel-centre-new-website - Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA:
https://www.admin.ch/gov/de/start.html - About Switzerland:
https://www.aboutswitzerland.eda.admin.ch/de - Download Visa Applications Forms:
https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/switzerland/india/english/pdf/visumantrag-schen-en-de-2024.pdf
https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/switzerland/india/english/pdf/visumantrag-visumd-en-de.pdf
https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/switzerland/india/english/pdf/Authorization_form.pdf
Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t skip budgeting. You’ll lose track fast.
- Don’t rely only on Swiss Travel Pass. Check alternative ways for best deals.
- Avoid tourist traps since they could cost you more money.
- Don't Ignore the expiration of discount cards or coupons to get benefits.
- Don't skip health insurance. It is mandatory and starts around CHF 100/year.
How Scoutabroad Can Help
Scoutabroad offers detailed budgeting plans for travelers. Our Top Visa Experts help you with:
- Cost estimates for different cities while travelling to Switzerland
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- Showing tax-saving and insurance tips
- Customized action plans for Indian students who are looking to study abroad in Switzerland.
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Conclusion
Saving money in Switzerland is possible for both Students and Tourists from India. It only requires planning and using budget tips smartly. You can also use local tips from frequent travelers on how to save money while traveling. For Indian Students studying in Switzerland Cook food at home, track your expenses and plan transport costs. And with the right habits you can thrive in Switzerland without overspending. Building financial discipline now helps long-term and then you can enjoy your Swiss life without any concerns for cost of living in Switzerland.
Your dream of studying in Germany or Switzerland isn’t just possible, it’s also fundable.
Ready to make your study abroad or travel dreams come true? Contact us to book a free consultation with our visa experts and start your European journey today!
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