Lauren’s Story as a Physiotherapist in Zurich
From the Belgium to the Swiss Alps
Everyone who takes the leap to work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland embarks on a unique adventure. Each year, dozens of healthcare professionals make this move through PhysioMatch, seeking more job satisfaction, a beautiful environment, and personal growth. This week, we speak with Lauren, who has been living and working in Zurich with his wife since January 2025. He shares his experiences, from initial doubts to everyday life in Switzerland.
From Antwerp to Zurich: A New Chapter
Lauren Maes (30) grew up in Antwerp, where he lived his entire life. “I had never lived abroad before—my wife had. She did an Erasmus exchange. We wanted to have an international experience before starting a family. That’s when we took the step to move to Switzerland through PhysioMatch.”
Now, the couple lives on the outskirts of Zurich, in a cosy neighbourhood just fifteen minutes from the city centre. “We found a furnished apartment via Flatfox; it was all arranged quickly. Soon, we’ll move to a place closer to the centre. What’s great about Zurich is that you have everything at your fingertips, and yet nature is right around the corner.”
Doubts and the Big Leap
The decision to move to Switzerland wasn’t made overnight. “We thought about it for at least three or four years. Eventually, we talked to a lot of people, and everyone said the obstacles weren’t that bad. Now we’re really happy we made the move. It’s a beautiful country, financially attractive, and the nature is breathtaking. And it’s only a seven-hour drive from Belgium, so friends and family visit often.”
Working as a Physiotherapist in Switzerland
Professionally, Lauren notices clear differences from Belgium. “In Belgium, I worked as a self-employed physio. Here, I’m employed, which brings more structure. I know exactly how much I earn each month—about twice the net income I had in Belgium. Sure, some costs are higher here, but if you’re mindful, you can save a lot. My wife works full-time as an architect too, so we manage to save without cutting back.”
“When you cycle to work in the morning with a mountain view… it’s just bliss.”
He also appreciates the work culture. “In Belgium, I often worked late, sometimes until 9 p.m. Here, people find it odd if you work that long. This schedule brings so much more peace of mind. Plus, there’s no admin work or answering phones. You can focus entirely on your patients.”
Lauren also sees clear differences in patient care: “In Switzerland, everything is more structured and clearly defined. One patient every half hour, no overlap. And patients here are very proactive. In Belgium, it was sometimes hard to motivate people, but here they’re eager to get going. They’re used to an active lifestyle—even people in their eighties want to head into the mountains! I also treat a lot of post-op cases, often from skiing injuries.”
A Life in Balance
The work-life balance is one of the biggest advantages for Lauren. “I now work 42 hours a week, slightly more than in Belgium. But since we don’t have many social obligations here yet, it feels like we have more free time. And the quality of that free time is so much better: hiking, biking, swimming in lakes… You’re in the mountains in no time by train or car.”
Lauren is sporty and enjoys football, cycling, and hiking. “I haven’t picked up football here yet, but I cycle a lot and go hiking almost every weekend. In Belgium, I’d get bored of hiking quicker, but here every trail is different. Even just cycling to work with a mountain view brings a sense of calm.”
Learning and Growing Together
At the clinic where Lauren works, there’s a strong focus on knowledge sharing. “Every month, we dive deep into a topic with colleagues. Recently it was about the effect of sunlight, and another time we discussed tendon complaints. It’s very educational. I haven’t planned any external courses yet, but there’s room for that. Many colleagues work on a commission basis, but I have a fixed salary, which gives me peace of mind.”
Switzerland as a New Home
Zurich increasingly feels like home for Lauren. “The city is green, clean, and very accessible by public transport. We love grabbing drinks by the water with friends or having barbecues in the park—which is allowed here. And in winter, you’re on the slopes in under an hour. This week, we’re taking the train to Ticino—it’s just 2.5 hours away.”
A Tip for Doubters
What would he say to colleagues who are unsure about moving to Switzerland? “Go for it! My biggest concern was the language—can I really help people well in German? But it’s actually fun to learn a new language, and people are incredibly supportive. Sure, you sometimes miss friends and family, but it’s also nice to have time for just the two of you. It’s like stepping out of the rat race. When you cycle to work in the morning with a mountain view… it’s just bliss.”
Thanks, Lauren, for your inspiring story!
Would you, like Lauren, like to discover what it’s like to work as a physiotherapist in Switzerland? Feel free to contact us. We’ll guide you every step of the way—from your first introduction to your first day at work.