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Step #3 : Send the application form

Updated: Aug 3, 2023

"All about the apartment in single click." - SwissPlatz
 

Do you like the apartment you just visited? Would you like to try your luck? Then you should prepare and send your application. In this post you will find all the information about the application form.


Would you like to know more about the visit? Information about visiting an apartment can be found here.


Do you need additional information? Go to our official website.

 

Why apply?


In Geneva, the vacancy rate is only 0.38% according to the latest news from the Federal Office of Statistics on June 1, 2022. That is to say, the demand is far too great in relation to the supply. Thus, the competition is enormous, and therefore, depending on the housing, there may be several dozen candidates for a given apartment.


That is why it is important to prepare your application well. Otherwise, your application will simply not be seen.


LIFE HACK : Even if it takes a little longer and if time allows, it is better to bring the complete file to the agency and present yourself personally. Indeed, a good personal impression plays a big role in the selection process.

 

Prepare the file well. How do I do it?


In all cases, you must prepare the following 4 documents :

  1. A copy of your identity document (identity card or passport)

  2. A copy of the non prosecution certificate

  3. A copy of the proof of your income

  4. The completed and/or signed rental application form

  5. Certificate of third party liability insurance If you live abroad, third party liability insurance can be taken out once the lease agreement is in place.


LIFE HACK : We recommend you to attach a motivation letter to your application. It does not need to be long (one A4 page is enough) but it should express your real need such as the fact that you have just arrived from abroad or the end of the current lease contract. A cover letter will only increase your chances. Remember that the person who will process your application is also human.


Below are the tutorials to follow for those who would like to prepare his file well. You can also click on the item in the list above. SwissPlatz strongly recommends that you read to the end, especially if it is your first time. Indeed, the tips will also be given to you as you go along.

 

Tutorial : How do I get a non prosecution certificate?

First of all, it is important that you ask for the attestation from the "Office de Poursuite of Geneva". Indeed, the authorities or the owners would like to verify that you are legally free and that you are fit to live in the Canton of Geneva.


Before starting, please bring your own :

  • Identity card,

  • Telephone number,

  • Access to your email.

  • Means of payment (Visa, Mastercard, Postcard or Twint)

The application is done in two steps :

  1. Creation of the "simple account" which will allow you to obtain codes to connect. Click here to create your simple account.

  2. Order the certificate of non prosecution called "extract from the register of prosecutions". Click here to go directly to the official application page.

Unfortunately, nothing is free in Switzerland. The certificate will cost you 17 francs and will be valid for 3 months. After that date, you have to recommend another one.


If everything goes well, you will receive the certificate by email within 2 working days.


LIFE HACK : Some websites are in French only. In this case, please use Google translator.

LIFE HACK : For those who live abroad, put the current address of your country of residence abroad (e.g. Italy, France, Korea etc.).

 

Tutorial: Proof of income. What is a proof of income?

It is a document that certifies the amount of your monthly or annual income.

  • If you are an employee: A copy of your last 3 pay slips or employment contract dated and signed by your employer.

  • If you are self-employed: A copy of the tax assessment or balance sheet of the company.

For other cases, please contact the real estate agency or the landlord.


LIFE HACK : If you are working in a non-French speaking country, the income statement must be written in English.

 

Tutorial: Fill out the rental application

This is the last step. It is a form that you have to fill in every time. There is no special technique to fill it out. But, be aware that the form differs from one agency to another.


LIFE HACK : If you have a guarantor, the file to prepare is the same as yours.


As an example, we provide you with the Brolliet form with explanations on important lines. Click below to download it.

 

Have a question? Post a comment or write to us at

info@swissplatz.com

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