Switzerland Seeking to Curb Foreign Home Buying Amid Shortages

Residential apartment blocks stand in Martigny, Switzerland.Photographer: Gianluca Colla/Bloomberg

Switzerland plans to tighten restrictions on foreigners buying local real estate to address worsening housing shortages, amid an upcoming referendum on a 10 million population cap.

The Federal Council is starting a consultation on new restrictions that would require non-EU/EFTA nationals to obtain authorization before purchasing a primary residence in Switzerland. The proposal is open for feedback until July 15.