Becoming a Real Estate Agent in Switzerland: Training, SVIT, Business Licence and Career Start
Becoming a real estate agent in Switzerland: no federal licence, SVIT/SSIC/SIAM, training courses, cantonal differences and career start on makli.ch.
Becoming a real estate agent in Switzerland is attractive – self-employment, guiding people through their biggest purchase, good income potential. Unlike some neighbouring countries, there is no nationwide broker licence: requirements, training and business permits vary by canton.
Those starting professionally align with associations like SVIT, SSIC or SIAM, complete training and build a client network. On makli.ch, new agents can register and receive mandates from owners.
No federal licence: SVIT, SSIC, SIAM and training courses
In Switzerland, cantons regulate the business permit for real estate agents. There is no uniform federal licence. Industry associations set quality standards: SVIT in German-speaking Switzerland, SSIC in Romandie and SIAM in Ticino.
Membership and recognised training courses (e.g. SVIT diploma) signal professionalism. Many agents start at an established office before going independent.
Business licence, cantonal differences and client network
The business permit is applied for at the cantonal office – requirements vary by canton. As self-employed you also need liability insurance, often a deposit and clear owner contracts.
Success depends on your client network: referrals, search mandates, cooperation with notaries and banks. Platforms like makli.ch help new agents become visible and receive owner enquiries.
Conclusion: start professionally and register on makli.ch
Becoming a real estate agent in Switzerland requires training, industry ties and a solid network – but no long licensing path. Those who meet SVIT standards and work professionally have good prospects.
Register as a broker on the brokers page of makli.ch and receive enquiries from owners seeking a verified agent.