Hello everyone,

I have recently arrived in Lutry, near Lausanne. I have moved here (or rather I will arrive properly on December 8th) after 8 years in London. I have moved here to be closer to my daughter, who will be turning 7 soon, and I'm a little unprepared. I just knew it was time to come!

So, my situation:

I have no permits for anything. I hold an EU (Irish) passport. I am aware I need a residence permit to rent a place unless I sublet, and a job to get a residence permit, and a work permit to get a job (or a transfer). Can anyone tell me the full, detailed picture of this? I don't really have work experience relevant to any particular sector, having been a self-employed landscape gardener (I do not wish to continue in this work) and a degree qualified acupuncturist. I hope to continue practicing acupuncture here, and am aware it will take time to transfer my qualifications. Ultimately I think I will work with this as self-employed, but need a job in the meantime for some stable income. Does anyone know how fully how the self-employment system works here and how it would apply to my practice re: premises, laws etc.?

I know I need to declare my presence in Switzerland if I intend to live and work here, but should I do this now or after I have found something? Will it create more problems if I am here without any prospects. I can always leave and reenter...

Also, I need to sublet a room.

What are the requirements to open a bank account here?

Oh, and I don't speak French, just to make matters all that bit more fun...

Any help (HELP!) would be greatly appreciated...