Frequently Asked Questions | Find Your Answer

What can I expect from you?

A team that is 100% committed to making your Swiss dream come true! We are looking for the perfect match between your needs and those of employers. From answering your first questions to taking care of practical matters, we're here to give you the best possible start in beautiful Switzerland.

Do you also work as a physiotherapist yourself?

We have extensive experience working as a physio in Switzerland! Ben has been running his own practice since 2023, while Tijmen combined his passion for sports with work at a Swiss Olympic Center until the end of 2024. So Ben still works as a physio, while Tijmen is now focusing full-time on takeoff.

When will your work stop?

Actually, never! Once you're in Switzerland, you'll be part of our takeoff community. We remain your single point of contact for all your questions - whether you've just arrived or have lived here for years. Because together, we will make your Swiss adventure a success.

Do I have to pay for your services?

No! For you as a physiotherapist, our services are completely free of charge. Your new employer pays 100% for our service. This will not be deducted from your salary either, don't worry.. Thanks to our extensive network in Europe and our specific knowledge of the Swiss system, practices, rehabilitation centers and hospitals are happy to work with us.

Why did you set up a takeoff?

From our own experience, we know how difficult it can be to find your way as a physiotherapist in Switzerland. Traditional mediation agencies only focus on finding a job, while a big step like this involves so much more. This was the reason for us to start takeoff - a way to really help therapists make their dream come true.

Do you offer a guarantee?

Yes! We stand for the quality of our matches. In our AGB, you will find loyal clauses that minimize the risk for you as an employer. Because we carefully select and supervise, we dare to give this guarantee with confidence.

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Can I get acquainted with candidates without obligation?

Absolutely! At takeoff, we keep it smart and efficient: after completing our questionnaire, we first filter for potential matches. This way, we only introduce candidates to you where we really click. There are no costs or obligations until the time of contract signing - so you can get acquainted in peace and find out if it clicks. This way, we save you valuable time and increase the chance of a perfect match.

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Do you support the SRK process?

Sure! We've streamlined the entire process with a clear step-by-step plan and helpful explanatory videos. We are ready for questions and our community is also a good tool here: people can easily help each other!

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What about your therapists' German language skills?

We take language skills very seriously. We actively encourage and support our therapists in learning German. They receive financial support for language courses and personal guidance in finding the right course. This is how we ensure that they are well prepared to work for you.

How and how much do I have to pay for you?

We believe in our approach: first delivering quality, then invoicing. You can find all the details in our AGB, but most importantly, you only pay after the trial period. With our loyal clauses, we ensure that the risk for you as an employer is minimal.

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Is SRK recognition mandatory?

Yes, this recognition is mandatory in order to legally work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland. And last but not least: without SRK recognition, your working hours in Switzerland do not count towards your BIG registration. So you want to arrange this properly!

Why do I need an SRK recognition?

Just like you need your BIG registration in the Netherlands, you need a registration with the Swiss Red Cross (SRK) in Switzerland. This is therefore a requirement to officially work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland.

What is an SRK recognition?

To work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland, you need recognition from the Swiss Red Cross (SRK). This is actually your ticket to working in Switzerland - it confirms that your degree and experience meet Swiss requirements. Sound exciting? Don't worry! At takeoff, we help you step by step through this process and arrange the application for you. All you have to do is provide the right documents, we'll do the rest.

Do I have to know German to work as a physio in Switzerland?

You don't have to speak German fluently to get started in Switzerland right away! However, you must achieve the B2 level within two years - that's between “basic” and “fluent”. Of course, a good basis in the German language makes your start a lot more fun and easier. This way, you can communicate better with your patients and colleagues from day one. Good news: takeoff is currently developing its own German language course, specifically for physiotherapists. This is how we also help you with this challenge!

Do you help find a place to live?

Of course, we'll help you get started in your search for a home in Switzerland! We'll share our top search tips, the most useful websites and Facebook groups, and you can take advantage of our extensive network. Our community regularly visits nice places to live, and sometimes we even get tips from patients or friends. Together, we'll find your perfect spot!

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What about residence and work permits?

Your employer initiates the application with the municipality where you are going to live. Once you are in Switzerland, report to this municipality within 14 days to collect your residence permit. With a permanent contract, you will receive a B permit for 5 years. After that, you can apply for a C permit that is valid for 10 years. Sounds complicated? We'll help you through the process!

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How do I open a bank account?

With your employment contract, rental contract and proof of registration with the municipality, you can open a bank account at any Swiss bank. We'll help you with all these steps, no problem!

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How much does a property cost in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, you have various options, both in the city and in the villages. In the city, you pay for a room in a shared apartment between 600-800 CHF, a studio around 900-1200 CHF and a 2-bedroom apartment between 1400-1800 CHF. If you choose a village, the prices are somewhat lower: a room from 450 CHF, a studio from 700 CHF and a 2-bedroom apartment from 1200 CHF.

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What about retirement?

Good news: in Switzerland, you accrue a double pension! Your employer contributes to your pension accrual and everything is arranged automatically. This is how you work towards a carefree future.

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Do you have any tips for saving taxes in Switzerland?

Yes! There are various options, such as the “2nd pillar” and “3rd pillar”. We would be happy to put you in touch with a tax advisor who can tell you more about this.

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How does it work with paying taxes?

Because you get a B-bewilligung that is valid for five years, you pay “Quellensteuer” for the first five years. This is automatically deducted from your salary and you therefore do not have to file a tax return.

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Is life expensive in Switzerland?

Indeed, life in Switzerland is more expensive than in most other countries in Europe. But don't worry, this mainly applies to things you pay for as a tourist, such as hotel stays and dinners in restaurants. In relation to your salary, the fixed costs are lower than in the Netherlands or Belgium. Plus: you pay less tax. Win-win! And also nice: As a resident, you get a 50% discount on public transport and mountain gondolas when you have a buy halbtax for around 140 euro.

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What is the easiest way to travel to the Netherlands/Belgium?

Whether you're going by train (via NS International), Flixbus, plane or car - there are plenty of options for getting home. And for sporty adventurers: cycling downhill to the north is also an option!

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How do I stay in touch with the takeoff community?

Through our group chats! Here you can easily find people for a spontaneous hike, bike ride or fun night out. The chat is bustling with activities and you are always welcome to join or organize something yourself. We have a separate group chat for each major city, so you can easily meet people near you.

Do you also organize events?

Yes! The highlight is our annual summit, which is free for all takeoff therapists. In addition, we are having a nice New Year's drink and are building an active hiking and cycling group.

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Is there a Dutch community in Switzerland?

You are not alone! There are many Dutch and Belgian physiotherapists working in Switzerland, and you will find a very diverse, international working atmosphere here. And through our own takeoff community, you can make new friends super fast!

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Does my employer pay for health insurance?

In Switzerland, you arrange your own health insurance. This gives you the freedom to choose the best insurance for yourself, regardless of your employer. Want to know more? So read this article!

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Will I receive a travel allowance?

This varies by employer and depends on your travel distance. You can include this in your salary negotiations. We'd love to share our experience to help you with this!

What does a Swiss paycheck look like?

AHV/IV and other Swiss abbreviations on your paycheck may seem abracadabra, but don't worry! We have a clear article waiting for you who explains everything. So you know exactly where you stand.

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What about refresher courses?

Your development does not stand still in Switzerland! By default, you get one week of paid leave per year for courses, and many employers also contribute to the costs. The great thing is: you can take these courses anywhere, including outside of Switzerland.

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Why does my salary vary by canton?

Each Swiss canton has its own culture, and that is reflected in the salaries. The differences are partly due to the different amounts that are reimbursed per canton from the insurance and the different income tax rates. In addition, the cost of living in a canton also plays a role.

How many vacation days do I get in Switzerland?

This varies by physiotherapy practice, and there is usually room for negotiation. In any case, you always get at least five weeks of vacation per year.

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FAQs

ben@takeoff.physio