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Helena Bachmann
JournalistBased in Geneva, Helena is a highly experienced writer who has also contributed to outlets like TIME magazine, USA Today and United Press International. She has been a major contributor to The Local Switzerland since 2019.
See all our journalists at The Local switzerland.- Email: helena@thelocal.ch
Articles by this author
Inheritance in Switzerland: Which country's laws should dual nationals follow?
Switzerland has well-defined rules for inheritance and succession rights. But do dual nationals have some leeway in choosing which country's laws to follow?
Today in Switzerland: A roundup of the latest news on Friday
MPs debate revoking Swiss citizenship for criminal dual nationals; housing shortage to ease in 2027; plus other news in our roundup this Friday.
REVEALED: Where in Switzerland are all the American citizens moving to?
There are – relatively speaking – few American citizens who settle in Switzerland for good, but those who do, tend to live predominantly in four cantons.
Will delays mean Switzerland lacks enough flu vaccines this winter?
Nearly two of the four flu vaccines ordered for Switzerland for the 2026/2027 influenza season are facing delivery delays. Does this mean you could get your shot too late?
Today in Switzerland: A roundup of the latest news on Thursday
International Geneva has lost more than 2,800 jobs because of Trump; homicide to become imprescriptible in Switzerland; and more news in our roundup this Thursday.
Could you benefit from Switzerland’s 'employer-sponsored' immigration?
The term "employer sponsored" immigration has appeared on some websites in Switzerland advising foreigners about ways to get a Swiss work permit. But is it a new way to get into Switzerland?
Switzerland reveals the average amount of the long-awaited 13-month pension
Though it has been in the works for several years, government has finally revealed what retirees – both those living in Switzerland and abroad – can expect to receive this December.
Today in Switzerland: A roundup of the latest news on Wednesday
The Council of States rejects a tax for unreferred ER visits; the 13th state pension will amount to an average of 1,580 francs per month; and more news in our Wednesday roundup.
Five surprising Swiss work permit rules foreigners may not know
Most foreign nationals coming to work and live in Switzerland are familiar with how the work permit system works in the country. But there are also some nuances you may not be aware of.
Prosperity and cohesion: Switzerland spells out its priorities for 2027
During the opening of the autumn session of the Swiss parliament on September 14th, President Guy Parmelin presented four goals the government has set for the country for next year.
Is Swiss milk safe to drink... or full of rubber?
Many people have never questioned the safety of milk coming from Swiss cows, which spend their summers grazing on pristine Alpine pastures. But a new university study refutes this wholesome image.
Today in Switzerland: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday
Government sets priorities for Switzerland for 2027; Geneva’s international organisations have withstood US financing cuts; plus others news in our Tuesday roundup.
Taxes and protests: What issues will your Swiss canton vote on this month?
In the third round of 2026 referendums, to be held on September 27th, Swiss voters will have their say on a variety of issues of both national and cantonal importance.
LISTED: More companies in Switzerland announce jobs cuts this autumn
Though the Swiss unemployment rate – about 3 percent currently - remains lower than elsewhere in Europe, some companies in Switzerland have announced job cuts this autumn.
Your questions answered: Will Switzerland bring in an immigration tax on foreigners?
The Swiss parliament is getting ready to tackle the proposed taxation of foreign nationals who settle in Switzerland. The debate is likely to be both heated and contentious, so what will happen next?
Today in Switzerland: A roundup of the latest news on Monday
Immigration tax to be debated in the Parliament from today; Geneva officials are worried about gang wars in nearby France ; and more Swiss news in our Monday roundup.
LISTED: The new destinations you can fly to from Switzerland this autumn
Airlines in Switzerland are publishing their autumn schedules with Edelweiss, Swiss and easyJet announcing details of new routes.
What costs more in Switzerland this autumn after the summer drought?
The record-breaking temperatures and prolonged drought that struck Switzerland this summer are impacting the prices of certain consumer goods this autumn.
Is the internet and mobile phone coverage good enough in rural Switzerland?
If you are planning to move to, or visit, the more rural areas of Switzerland, you may want to know whether you’ll be able to use your smartphone and computer without a hitch.
Today in Switzerland: A roundup of the latest news on Friday
The Basel-City parliament approves three record-breaking high-rise blocks; gap between Switzerland's rich and poor widens; and more news in our roundup this Friday.
What are your rights if you move to Switzerland with your partner?
If you are planning to follow your significant other to Switzerland, there are some important things you should know about the move.
EXPLAINED: Why you need to tell Swiss authorities where you live
When you rent an apartment or buy a property in Switzerland, you will have to announce your arrival at your local municipality or commune. Here’s how to do this.
Number of people travelling from Switzerland to US plunges further
Following a drop last year, the downward trend in travel from Switzerland to the United States has accelerated during the first half of 2026. But what's the reason behind the fall in traveller numbers?