Hello everybody,

I have been recruited by an amazing Swiss company to come work in the Grenchen area. They recommend we live in Solothurn or Biel. They have a connection at a school and have identified an opportunity for my wife to teach, but she will need a TEFL course and a permit, which apparently can be difficult to obtain.

We are researching salary and taxation, as well as all the working permits, etc. It is a huge task, but this site is very helpful.

We are a newly married couple without kids who love outdoor activities like cycling, running, skiing and swimming.

Any things you know are pitfalls to our potential adventure are welcomed. We are quite thankful for the resources that this site provides.

Well, only the fact that you are Americans. It'll make it more difficult for your wife to find a job. Still, if your company is willing to help she may be lucky.

Whatever you make sure to pay a visit, or several, to the village of Altreu which has the biggest stork colony in Switzerland. We were there last weekend and could see many little storks in their nests as they're not yet old enough to fly. Estimated departure back to the south starts around August 15th. But they'll be back again next February. From Solothurn you can get a boat down the river to Altreu, not sure if it runs to Biel too. And that area is good for cycling too.

Solothurn has a pretty old town, Biel not so much. Don't forget to look at villages inbetween too, you'll get more for your money.

On the tax side, note that Americans are taxed based on their citizenship so must file US tax returns every year no matter where they live. There is also the possibility you'd owe US tax on top of your Swiss taxes. Your Swiss accounts are also considered "foreign" so must be reported on a FBAR form if the aggregate amount reaches $10,000+ at any point in the year. I suggest you research futher on the IRS website for "Americans Abroad".

My daughter lives near Grenchen, but in canton Bern. Her boyfriend works in Grenchen.

Tom

Welcome and enjoy.