ZURICH, April 15 (Reuters) - The Swiss government on Wednesday said it wants to tighten rules that restrict the purchase of real estate in the country by foreigners amid concern over housing shortages
Swiss Government Proposes Stricter Real Estate Rules for Foreign Buyers
Overview of Proposed Changes to Swiss Real Estate Laws
ZURICH, April 15 (Reuters) - The Swiss government on Wednesday said it wants to tighten rules that restrict the purchase of real estate in the country by foreigners amid concern over housing shortages and an upcoming referendum on whether to limit the population.
The governing Federal Council said in a statement it wants to amend the so-called "Lex Koller" law that limits foreign ownership of Swiss real estate, and would hold consultations on the proposed changes that will run until mid-July.
Key Proposals Under Consideration
Permit Requirements for Non-EU/EFTA Citizens
Under the proposals, citizens of countries that are not members of the European Union or the European Free Trade Association will need to obtain permits to buy main residences and must sell them within two years if they leave Switzerland.
Restrictions on Commercial and Holiday Property Purchases
Commercial Real Estate
The proposals also envisage barring such nationals from acquiring commercial real estate purely for rental or investment ends.
Holiday Homes
Purchase of holiday homes would be curbed by cutting cantonal permit quotas and tightening resale rules, they state.
Context and Public Concerns
Switzerland's higher living standards, strong corporate landscape and job creation have helped encourage immigration, feeding concerns that public infrastructure is being stretched.
Upcoming Referendum on Population Limits
In June, the Swiss will vote on a proposal that aims to stop the permanent resident population exceeding 10 million by 2050. The Federal Council has urged voters to reject the proposal.
(Reporting by Marleen Kaesebier;Editing by Dave Graham)
