Expats are drawn to the Principality of Liechtenstein for its Alpine climate, breathtaking scenery, culture and low taxes. This landlocked country sits between Switzerland and Austria, sharing the two country’s charms yet shining uniquely on its own. Check out our essential guide to this little European gem, if you’re thinking of moving here.
- Expat Clubs
- Schools
- Country Information
- Resident and Work visa information
- How to get a driving license
- Where to live and about the accomodation types
- Healthcare information including Hospitals and Insurance
Expat Clubs
There are no expat meet up clubs as such in Liechtenstein and most expats communicate online through websites such as ExpatWoman.com.
International Schools
The International School Rheintal
The International School Rheintal (ISR) serves the educational needs of the international community of the Liechtenstein, St.Gallen and Vorarlberg region. ISR opened in 2002 with classes from Grades 1 (6 years) through Grade 7 (13 years). Since its inauguration, the school has added a kindergarten for 3 to 6 year olds. Furthermore, one grade level has been added in each successive year. As of August 2007, the school offers all classes up to grade 12.
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Address: Aeulistrasse 10, 9470 Buchs, Switzerland
Tel: +41 81 750 63 00
Fax: +41 81 750 63 01
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.isr.ch
Country Information
Location: Europe
Capital City: Vaduz
Other Important Cities: Schaan
Currency: Swiss Franc
Language: German
Calling Code: 423
Internet TLD: .li
Electricity: The country runs on 230V 50Hz.
Emergency Numbers:
Country Information
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liechtenstein
Embassy Information
Are you looking for your local embassy in Liechtenstein? We found this link with all the embassies listed really useful...
embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-in/liechtenstein
Residents Visa and Work Permit information
The Principality of Liechtenstein is part of the Schengen territories therefore visa exemptions for eligible countries including the US apply. Other countries must secure a Schengen visa through a Liechtenstein embassy or consulate in their home or host country.
Long-term stay in Liechtenstein requires a residence permit. There are different regulations for EU and non-EU citizens. Naturally EU nationals have flexible movement around the country. They may apply for various residence permits: Short-term residency (less than 12 months), B residency (5 years), C permit (settlement) and self-employment.
Non-EU citizens will have a more difficult time securing a residence and work permit. The bilateral agreement among EU territories means that EU citizens will have priority in securing open employment positions; non-EU citizens cannot simply get the job. This means that the residence and work permit will be pending. The same residency permits are available, except they are much harder to obtain and renew.
Accommodation
Trips to Liechtenstein is mostly tourism purposes. There isn’t a big expat community in the principality, and most accommodations are rented short-term. Long-term rentals are also available, however, prices are steep, similar to its neighbours Switzerland and Austria.
Rental contracts can come in either three types: indefinite contract, six months contract or negotiated contract. A maximum of three months rent can be required as security deposit by the landlord.
Termination of indefinite contracts require six months notice, while a fixed period contract requires 2 to 3 months.
Driving License
Driving regulations are similar to the Switzerland. Expats may use their domestic license and an international license to drive legally in Liechtensten. For long-term stays, expats must secure a local license.
Healthcare
Medical facilities and services in Liechtenstein are excellent. Public health care is available to all citizens and registered residents in the principality; this is funded by contributions made by both employees and employers.
Complicated treatments are usually referred to hospitals in Switzerland or Austria. It is therefore advisable to make sure your health insurance will cover or at least reimburse these costs.
Insurance Companies
Allianz Liechtenstein
Allianz offers a comprehensive range of insurance and asset management products and services to over 83 million customers in more than 70 countries.
Address: Heiligkreuz 52, 9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Tel: +423 237 2700
Fax: +423 237 2790
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.allianz.com/en/about_us/where_we_are/regions_countries/liechtenstein.html
ValorLife
Valorlife is a Liechtenstein-based insurance company founded in 1998 by the Vaudoise Insurance Group, one of the leading Swiss insurance companies for over 100 years.
Address: Heiligkreuz 43, FL-9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Tel: +423 399 2950
Fax :+423 399 2959
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.valorlife.com/en/home.aspx
Hospitals
National Hospital - Liechtensteinisches Landesspital
Address: Heiligkreuz 25 - FL-9490 Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Tel: +423 235 44 11
Fax: +423 232 06 55
Website (German): landesspital.li/