Exit tax and relocation to Switzerland: choosing Ticino for the future
The discussion surrounding exit tax in Italy invites entrepreneurs, investors and families to reflect on the future of their wealth and where they wish to live. It is a consideration that encompasses everything they have built, the continuity of their interests and the opportunities they wish to offer future generations.
Against this backdrop, Ticino presents a compelling combination: the stability of Switzerland, a Mediterranean lifestyle and proximity to Italy. For those considering a new chapter in life, these qualities offer a perspective worth exploring in person.
Switzerland and the value of a long-term perspective
When planning a relocation, the appeal of a destination also lies in the confidence with which it allows you to look ahead. Political stability, dependable institutions and economic strength make Switzerland a reference point for those who value continuity and careful planning.
For a family with international interests, choosing where to live means bringing personal needs, professional activities and wealth considerations into alignment. A reliable institutional framework and guidance from qualified professionals provide a sound foundation for approaching these decisions with a comprehensive perspective.
This is where Ticino reveals its distinctive character: life within the Swiss system, combined with the familiarity of the Italian language and a cultural affinity that helps those arriving from Italy feel at home. A valuable sense of continuity while establishing new routines.
Living in Ticino, where landscape becomes part of everyday life
Morning light across the lake. Lunch outdoors. The opportunity to complement a working day with a lakeside walk or a cultural event. Ticino’s Mediterranean lifestyle finds expression in simple moments that become more meaningful when they form part of everyday life.
Between Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore, the region offers different ways of living: panoramic residences surrounded by greenery, lakeside properties, apartments close to amenities and homes in historic village centres. The choice reflects the pace of life you seek, your need for privacy and your family’s priorities.
Lugano, recognised for its quality of life
Lugano combines an international outlook, a range of services and an immediate connection with its natural surroundings. Its appeal is also reflected in the rankings: in the 2025 Tamedia study cited on the City’s official website, Lugano ranks first for quality of life among the Swiss cities assessed. City of Lugano
In terms of safety, the City’s 2025 annual report records, for the eleventh consecutive year, the lowest incidence of the principal offences assessed among Switzerland’s ten major cities. This offers a tangible point of reference for those considering where to live and raise their children. City of Lugano annual report 2025
For those imagining a new home in Switzerland, Lugano offers a sought-after balance: a city well suited to everyday living, with an international outlook and a lake that defines its horizon.
Ascona, the charm of a village on Lake Maggiore
In Ascona, the perspective changes. The lakeside promenade, colourful façades and narrow streets of the historic village invite a more leisurely rhythm. Art, gastronomy and landscape contribute to a distinctive identity that appeals to those seeking beauty and discretion.
Ascona is a member of “The Most Beautiful Villages in Switzerland” association and was named “Swiss Village of the Year 2025” in the competition organised by Schweizer Illustrierte and L’illustré. These two distinct recognitions celebrate the village’s heritage and Mediterranean charm. Municipality of Ascona
Close to Italy, with an international outlook
For those maintaining family and professional relationships in Italy, Ticino’s location offers practical advantages. Direct rail connections to Milan and Malpensa Airport facilitate regular travel and access to international destinations.
This proximity makes it possible to imagine a new daily life while preserving important connections. Language, relationships and geographical closeness help ease the transition to a new living environment.
WETAG Private Relocation Experience
A relocation plan takes shape through specific questions: which area reflects your lifestyle, what characteristics your home should offer, and which personal and tax considerations require dedicated attention.
WETAG Private Relocation Experience has been designed to guide this initial exploration. Following a confidential introductory consultation, the programme offers a private experience tailored to each family: visits to selected properties, a meeting with a tax adviser and an introduction to the region.
The day begins with the homes and their surroundings, followed by a discussion with a specialist. Each appointment is prepared around the client’s priorities, ensuring that the time spent in Ticino is relevant to their plans. Residency and tax matters are explored with the appropriate professionals in light of each individual situation.
Exit tax may be the starting point for this reflection. The decision to live in Ticino finds its lasting value in the future it allows you to envisage: more room for your priorities, a dependable environment and a home that feels truly yours.
Your next chapter deserves a dedicated conversation. Contact WETAG for a confidential consultation and discover the Private Relocation Experience.
Local expertise, international connections
WETAG combines its in-depth knowledge of Ticino with the reach of established international real estate networks. We are the exclusive Ticino affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® and Luxury Portfolio International®, as well as a founding member and exclusive Ticino affiliate of EREN — European Real Estate Network. These relationships connect our local expertise with trusted professionals across international markets, supporting clients whose lives and property interests extend across borders.