Information for Foreigners in the Swiss League

Here is a checklist that will get you started if you decide to play women's hockey in Europe. Please note that only two foreigners are allowed to dress for each game for teams in the Swiss National League A, and only one foreigner in the Swiss National League B. (Note that any number of foreign players can be licenced for a team, but only 1 or 2, as stated above, can play in each game.)

The information in this file was compile during the summer of 1998, and is subject to change. This information was written by Chris Etele and Andria Hunter who are foreigners from Ontario, Canada who played in Switzerland. This checklist may vary if you are from a different country.

Foreigner Checklist

• The team informs the consolate in Switzerland that you need a work VISA, the Swiss consolate in Canada receives this information. You pick up the work permit from the consulate in Toronto before you go to Switzerland. Make an appointment to pick it up. Bring $50 and your valid passport.
  
  
• Get your passport updated or get a new one. It may take a month go get a new passport, so don't leave it to the last minute. You can get a new passport from the passport office or you can order it in the mail. Applications can be picked up at most travel agencies or at a passport office. The cost is $60.
  
  
• Ask your Swiss team to mail the transfer card to fill out and mail to the CHA in Ottawa. It allows you to play internationally and will not ruin your eligibility as a Canadian player.
  
  
• Look into student travel discounts. Get an ISIC card from Travel Cuts. Certain discounts for travel or accomodation are only available if purchased in Canada (i.e. VIA Rail Pass). See a travel agent for more details.
  
  
• Ask the team is they can find you an Au Pair (you live with a family and work 30 hours weekly for them) or another type of work.
  
  
• Get an international driver's license in Switzerland. Make sure you bring your valid Canadian license.
  
  
• Bring extra sticks, tape, equipment, etc, as hockey equipment is much more expensive than in Canada. The selection is not as good in Switzerland.
• The team will pay your international transfer fee once you get there.
  
  
• Contact other people who have gone to Switzerland to learn more about the experience.
  
  
• Depending on your job arrangement, your health insurance may be covered. Check into this.
  
  
• Contact the OHIP office before you leave to inform them that you will be leaving the country. You will need to fill out a form for them.
  
  
• One word of advice: Make sure that the team you are playing for gives you a contract that you can sign. And make sure you read it carefully and add what you need.
  
  

Credits

The information in this file is based on the experiences of Chris Etete and Andria Hunter who played for DHC Langenthal. It may be different for other teams, so be sure to discuss each point with your team.

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