Buying in Valais as a foreigner: the Lex Koller explained
Who can buy property in Valais without a Swiss passport, in which municipalities, and under what conditions? The essentials, in plain terms.
The Lex Koller governs the purchase of property by people domiciled abroad. In Valais it mainly concerns second homes in the tourist resorts.
Who is affected
Anyone without Swiss residence — as well as nationals of countries outside the EU/EFTA who do not live in Switzerland — needs a permit before buying. People living in Switzerland on a B or C permit can generally buy their main residence freely.
The cantonal quotas
Valais has an annual quota of permits, shared between the tourist municipalities. In the most sought-after resorts — Verbier, Crans-Montana, Nendaz, Zermatt — these quotas often run out early in the year.
The size limits
A permit generally covers a maximum of 200 m² of net living space and 1,000 m² of land. Exceptions exist for particular properties.
Second homes and the Second Homes Act
Since the Second Homes Act, municipalities with more than 20% second homes may no longer authorise new ones. Existing properties, however, remain freely transferable — which explains the value of older properties in the resorts.
In practice
The best approach is to check, before even making an offer, whether the property falls within an available quota and whether your situation allows the purchase. We carry out this check systematically with our foreign clients.
Frequently asked questions
Can a French national buy a chalet in Verbier?
If they live in Switzerland: generally yes, freely for a main residence. Without Swiss residence, a permit from the cantonal quota is needed — the usual route for a second home in Verbier.
Can you let a second home bought under the Lex Koller?
Yes, but only periodically: letting it permanently all year would contradict the purpose of the permit. Seasonal, weekly letting is allowed.
How long does the permit take?
Allow a few weeks to a few months depending on the municipality and the time of year — early in the year, when quotas are fresh, it is usually quicker.
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