What obligations do residents of Switzerland have?
Welche Pflichten haben Einwohnerinnen und Einwohner der Schweiz?
Correct answer: A
- A They must pay taxes.Sie müssen Steuern bezahlen.
- B They must do an apprenticeship.Sie müssen eine Lehre machen.
- C They must have a bank account.Sie müssen ein Bankkonto haben.
- D They must have a driving licence.Sie müssen den Führerausweis haben.
Why
With taxes, the state pays for schools, roads, the police and much more. Anyone with income or assets must pay taxes.
Common mistakes
- B: They must do an apprenticeship.
- An apprenticeship is one possible path after school, but it is not an obligation.
- C: They must have a bank account.
- A bank account is practical, but it is not required by law.
Topic
Taxes, registration, health insurance
Anyone who lives in Switzerland has not only rights but also obligations. They apply to all residents, with or without a Swiss passport. Three important obligations are: paying taxes, registering with the municipality and having health insurance. In addition, everyone must obey the laws.
Having a say: rights and obligations
Obligations
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 16 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.