Which Zurich registration route applies?
Use the route that matches where you moved from. Similar names in the booking system do not mean the procedures are interchangeable.
| Situation | Route | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| Arriving from abroad | Book the arrival-from-abroad appointment | Attend in person at Zurich South. All family members attend a family registration. |
| Moving from another Swiss municipality | Check eUmzugCH or book an in-person appointment | Complete the previous municipality's departure requirement first. |
| Changing address inside Zurich city | Report online or book an appointment | The city's online address-change form is only for existing Zurich residents. |
City registration is due within 14 days. For a new arrival, the city accepts registration only after the effective move-in date.
Documents for arrival from abroad
The official city list includes the following items. Your appointment confirmation may add case-specific requirements.
- Passport. EU/EFTA nationals may use a national identity card.
- Rental contract, housing confirmation or sublease.
- Assurance of a residence permit or visa authorisation, if already issued.
- Employment contract or proof of study.
- Original civil-status documents for relevant family cases.
- Payment for migration-related fees, which depend on permit type.
Do not upload passports, permits or civil-status papers to public chats. Use the city's booking flow or secure contact channel.
Personenmeldeamt and Migrationsamt do different work
Personenmeldeamt Stadt Zurich handles city resident registration and address changes. Migrationsamt des Kantons Zurich examines applications and issues entry and residence permits. Registering the address does not mean every permit step is complete.
The cantonal Migration Office is at Berninastrasse 45, 8090 Zurich. Its official page lists permit topics, forms, counter hours and the contact form. The office states that it does not provide a general email address.
Zurich registration FAQ
How long do I have to register after moving to Zurich?
The City of Zurich requires registration within 14 days. Registration starts only after the effective move-in date.
Where do I register when arriving in Zurich from abroad?
Book the City of Zurich's arrival-from-abroad appointment. The appointment takes place in person at Personenmeldeamt Zurich South.
Can I register a move to Zurich online?
If you are moving from another Swiss municipality, check whether your case can use eUmzugCH. Arrivals from abroad must attend in person with an appointment.
Is Personenmeldeamt the same as Migrationsamt Zurich?
No. Personenmeldeamt handles city resident registration. The Canton Zurich Migration Office examines applications and issues entry and residence permits.