Background

A Nation of Many Languages

Having evolved as a country settled by immigrants from different parts of Europe, Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. German is the most widespread, spoken by 17 of Switzerland’s 26 cantons, with French in only four, three being bilingual French and German, Italian in two, and Romansh in only one trilingual canton. While it is not necessary to know one of these in order to become a Swiss resident, if you wish to become a Swiss citizen you will need to know at least one of these languages fluently.

The cantons and communes arrange for language integration classes for immigrant children so they are able to transition smoothly into the Swiss school system. Your canton or community’s integration office offers various programmes for immigrant children and their parents. The Federal Office of Culture is responsible for language issues. The association Lia Rumantscha was established for the promotion of Romansh language and culture.