HowToSwiss

Basel-Stadt: with family checklist

Basel • German • Updated August 2026

Schools, family reunification and partner work rights.

Income tax (~CHF 100k)
23.5%
Rent 1BR
CHF 1’700
Health insurance
CHF 410/mo

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Permits & paperwork

  • Apply for family reunification

    REQUIRED
    ~6–12 weeksCHF 100–300

    Spouse and children under 18 can join you. EU citizens: nearly automatic. Non-EU: requires adequate housing proof and income above social welfare threshold.

  • Confirm spouse work rights

    REQUIRED
    ~30 minFree

    EU spouses can work freely. Non-EU spouses joining a B permit holder can work, but employer may need a separate authorization.

Children

  • Enroll kids in school

    REQUIRED
    ~1 dayFree (public)

    Public school is mandatory from age 4. Contact the Gemeinde school office. Kids are usually placed in a 'welcome class' for language support.

  • Find childcare (Kita) if needed

    OPTIONAL
    Weeks–monthsCHF 80–180/day

    Childcare is expensive and waitlisted. Some cantons subsidize based on income. Apply 6+ months before you need a spot.

  • Apply for family allowances

    RECOMMENDED
    ~1 hourFree (you receive money)

    Switzerland pays CHF 200–330/month per child via your employer's compensation fund. You apply, your employer processes.

Healthcare

  • Insure each child separately

    REQUIRED
    ~1 hourCHF 100–150/mo per child

    Every person needs their own KVG policy, including newborns within 3 months of birth. Children get reduced premiums.

Want to tick these off and save your progress? Open the interactive with family checklist.

Keep reading

All 26 canton checklists

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