Distinguish place of origin, birthplace and residence. These lead to different services.
Prepare your research
Place of origin, canton, residence, period and reason for any federal file.
The method, step by step
- Start with the municipality or canton of origin for family records. Do not assume registers are federal.
- Federal archives are relevant when a person dealt with federal administration. Specify reason and period.
- Retain German, French or Italian place forms. Check they refer to the same municipality.
Choose the right repository
Municipality and canton of origin are the first reference points for family records. Federal archives concern contact with federal authorities.
Choose a route from the record you have
- Record place of origin separately from residence. Federal Archives first recommend town or canton of origin; a residential address may not be the right starting point.
- For federal files, explain the event connecting the person to administration, place and dates. Without an identifiable event, return to municipal and cantonal sources.
Find archives
Archives fédérales suisses — histoire familiale →
Guidance across Swiss federal, cantonal and municipal archives.
Federal archives do not centralise Swiss civil registration.
Sources & references
- Archives fédérales suisses — histoire familiale ↗ (Resource review date : )