Childcare for infants in Zurich: Why you should sign up early
If you’re relocating to Zurich with a young child, one of the most important (and often stressful) aspects of settling in is finding reliable childcare. The good news? Zurich offers a wide range of high-quality childcare options. The catch? Spots are limited — and competition can be fierce.
Childcare in Zurich: what are your options?
In Zurich, infant childcare (known locally as Kinderkrippe or Kita) is available through:
Public Kitas: Subsidized by the city, these are more affordable but often have long waitlists.
Private Kitas: Tend to have more flexible hours and availability, but come at a higher cost.
Day mothers (Tagesmütter): Registered individuals who care for children in their homes.
Nannies or au pairs: More personalized care, with varying levels of availability and cost.
Most Kitas accept infants starting at 3–6 months of age, but demand far exceeds supply, especially in central districts like Kreis 1, 2, 6, and 8.
Why you need to register early
In Zurich, it’s not uncommon for expectant parents to begin the childcare search during pregnancy. Yes, really.
Why?
Waitlists can stretch 6 to 18 months.
Popular Kitas (especially bilingual or Montessori-inspired) fill up quickly.
Some require multiple interviews and trial days before acceptance.
If you wait until after your baby is born to begin your search, you’re likely already late — especially if you’re hoping to return to work within the first year.
How to sign up
Here are some steps to get started:
Search via the City of Zurich’s childcare directory:
Make a shortlist of Kitas near your home or office.
Visit the facilities (most offer open days or private tours).
Apply early — many allow pre-birth applications.
Consider a mix (e.g. Kita + Tagesmutter) to increase flexibility.
Costs
Childcare is subsidized based on your income for public Kitas, but expect to pay:
CHF 80–150 per day for private Kitas.
Subsidies require formal registration with the city.
Pro tips from local parents
Submit multiple applications — don’t wait for one response.
Be open to nearby districts if you’re in a high-demand area.
Start building a backup plan (nanny share, Tagesmutter, etc.).
Planning ahead means peace of mind. When it comes to childcare in Zurich, the earlier you start, the better your chances of securing the right place for your little one.