Estate planning in Switzerland: What expats in romandie need to know before calling a Notary

: Published: 09 September 2026

When you move to Switzerland, navigating the local admin can feel like a full-time job from health insurance models to local tax declarations. But one practical topic that many international residents put off is what actually happens to their estate under Swiss law.

If you come from the UK, the US, or another common law country, Swiss succession rules can come as a surprise. Swiss civil law places strong emphasis on statutory shares, specific handwritten requirements, and cantonal procedures.

Whether you own property in Switzerland, hold assets across borders, or simply want to ensure your family is protected, here is a practical look at how Swiss inheritance works and how to prepare before consulting a notary.

The two ways to draft a will in Switzerland
In Switzerland, you generally have two main routes for creating a Last Will:

1. The Holographic Will (Testament olographe – Art. 505 CC)
Unlike many countries where a will is typed and witnessed, a Swiss holographic will must be entirely handwritten by you. No notary or witnesses are required, but the rules are strict:
- Every single word must be handwritten with pen on paper (a printed document signed by hand is void).
- It must clearly state the date (day, month, year) and place.
- It must be signed by you at the bottom.

2. The Notarized Will (Testament authentique – Art. 499 CC)
This is drafted with a licensed Swiss notary in the presence of two independent witnesses. It is officially recorded in the cantonal register and is standard practice for complex family structures or business transfers.