Laurine’s Journey as a Physiotherapist in Biel/Bienne
Laurine (28) from France has been working as a physiotherapist in Biel/Bienne since 2025. She appreciates the better working conditions, the extra time per patient and the good work-life balance she has found in Switzerland. In the interview, she talks about how the move felt for her, what everyday life is like there and what her experiences are within the practice and the region. Curious about her story? Read on to find out more.
From France to the Swiss Mountains
Anyone who takes the step to work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland embarks on a unique adventure. Through PhysioMatch, dozens of healthcare professionals make that leap every year, seeking greater job satisfaction, a beautiful environment and personal growth.
This week, we’re talking with Laurine, who has been living and working in Biel/Bienne since 2025. She shares her experiences, from initial doubts to daily life in Switzerland.
Introduction
Who are you?
“My name is Laurine, I’m 28 years old and originally from France. I first graduated with a Bachelor in Foreign Languages and International Business. I always dreamed of becoming a physiotherapist, but the studies seemed difficult, so I chose another degree first. After a few years in the corporate world, I finally decided to follow my passion and moved to the Netherlands to study physiotherapy.
Before coming to Switzerland, I lived in several countries. I spent two years in the USA for an exchange program, and during my physiotherapy studies I completed placements in Tanzania, France and Madrid. So moving abroad again felt natural to me. I now live and work in Biel/Bienne.”
Adventure
What made you decide to embark on this adventure in Switzerland?
“I didn’t feel tied to one specific country, and staying in the Netherlands wasn’t possible because of the language. In France I would have needed to validate my diploma, but in Switzerland I could already work while the process was ongoing.
The living conditions here are much better. You work less and earn more, and as a physiotherapist you get more time with each patient. In France you often treat several people at once, while in Switzerland you can focus on one patient per session. I work 80 percent here and still earn more than a full-time salary in France.
I also love the multicultural environment. In Biel/Bienne you hear Portuguese, English, French and Spanish every day. It feels very international.”
How did it feel to leave your familiar surroundings and start in a new country?
“I’ve moved abroad several times, so the transition wasn’t difficult. I started in the US, then the Netherlands, and during my final study year I spent three months in Tanzania, three in France and three in Madrid.
Of course, it can be challenging. Cultures differ a lot, especially in Tanzania where the conditions are much more difficult and people have fewer resources. You also arrive somewhere where you don’t know anyone. But at the same time, it’s exciting. You can reinvent yourself. Starting a new life abroad is always an adventure, and I really enjoy that.”
What unexpected or special experiences have you had so far?
“The punctuality. Everyone is always on time. They even arrive early to their appointments. And they get upset if you’re five minutes late. In France that’s not such a big deal.
Another thing is parking, in Switzerland you pay almost everywhere, while in France many places are free.
But I really love the mentality here. People value a balanced life. Work is important, but not everything.”
Finances
Do you notice a difference in financial reward compared to France?
“Absolutely. The salary is much higher here. In France I earned around 3000 euros per month. In Switzerland I work 80 percent and still make more than I ever did back home.
Health insurance is more expensive, I pay around 420 CHF per month, but in France you receive financial help for it. Even with that difference, I save much more money here.”
Have you achieved goals that would have been more difficult in France, such as saving or traveling?
“Yes, definitely. I can save much more easily now.”
Quality of Healthcare
What strikes you about how physiotherapy is organised here?
“The biggest difference is the time per patient. In Switzerland you focus fully on one person, and the care feels much more patient-centred.”
How does contact with patients or colleagues differ compared to France?
“In France people are relaxed, and I feel it’s similar here. Patients in Switzerland are very kind, they even bring chocolate sometimes.”
Career Opportunities
What opportunities have you found here to develop yourself further?
“In our practice we have a two-hour training session every month. Usually the boss gives the training, or one of the more experienced colleagues.”
Does your practice encourage additional courses or education?
“Yes, they are very supportive. My boss even pays for my German course.”
Work–Life Balance
Do you feel you have a better work-life balance here?
“Much better than in France.”
In what ways does your life here feel like a holiday?
“The workday is more relaxed, so I still have plenty of energy afterwards. That makes a huge difference.”
Biel / Bienne
Can you tell us something about the place where you live now?
“I live in Biel/Bienne, about 45 minutes from Bern. It’s a bilingual city, German and French, although more people speak German. I also have a few patients who speak German, and luckily my boss pays for my language course.”
What are your favourite activities or spots in the region?
“I love walking and hiking. The mountains near Bern are beautiful. Biel/Bienne is quite small, but Bern is close and there’s a lot to do there.
The river around the city is amazing. In Bern it’s very popular to jump into the river and let the current carry you through the city. It’s such a fun experience.
There’s also a good gym in Biel/Bienne, and ice skating and hockey are very popular. There are beautiful rivers and waterfalls in the area too.”
How important is the environment for your job satisfaction?
“It’s really important. I couldn’t have gotten a better job.”
What would you like to say to fellow physiotherapists who hesitate to take this step?
“Don’t hesitate, you will be fine. Switzerland has the best working conditions and salaries in Europe, and the environment is amazing. The work–life balance is great. It’s a beautiful country and perfect for people who love the outdoors.”
Closure
Thank you, Laurine, for your inspiring story.
Do you, like Laurine, want to discover what it’s like to work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland? Feel free to contact us. We will guide you every step of the way, from your first meeting to your first day on the job.