Learning Swiss German and High German in Switzerland

German is the official written language in Zurich, but Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch) is spoken in daily life and sounds quite different. High German (Hochdeutsch) is always understood and will get you everywhere.

Where to start

Most expats start with standard High German courses — either private school (Migros Kulturprogramm, Sprachschule Zürich, Berlitz) or apps (Duolingo, Babbel). High German is taught in schools and universally understood.

Swiss German

Swiss German is a collection of dialects — Züridütsch in Zurich, Bärndütsch in Bern. There are private classes (e.g. Schwizerdütschi Spraachkurse) but most expats pick it up informally over time. Understanding Swiss German takes 6–12 months of immersion.

Language requirements for permits

A C permit (permanent settlement) requires proof of language skills: B1 level (written) and A2 level (oral) for German, French, or Italian. Swiss citizenship requires C1 level.

What to do next

Berlitz Zurich

English-spoken

Global language school offering German and 30+ languages via private and group classes, in-person and online. German and

Migros Klubschule

English-spoken

Switzerland's largest adult education provider with 50+ locations. Extensive German courses (A1–C2) including telc and G

inlingua Zürich

English-spoken

Established language school in central Zurich offering German, English, and business language courses. Small groups of 2

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