The acquisition of real estate in Switzerland by foreigners is limited and strictly regulated by the law known as the 'Lex Koller' law 鈥� Federal Act on the Acquisition of Immovable Property in Switzerland by Foreign Non Resident (ANRA). According to this law, foreigners may need an authorisation from the competent cantonal authority to purchase a real estate. It does not matter whether the real estate is already in foreign hands or not; neither does the legal cause of the transfer (purchase, exchange, donation). Authorisation is granted for a specific form of use and the property may not be used for a different purpose. Unless an exception is granted, authorisation is valid for three years.

To determine whether a buyer is eligible to purchase a property in Switzerland, the buyer should take into consideration the following elements:

1. 听

   鈥⑻� does the buyer have a Swiss residence permit (B, C, G or L)

2. 听

   鈥⑻� the buyer's country of origin (EU/EFTA national or non-EU/EFTA national)

3. 听

   鈥⑻� the purpose of real estate usage (primary