How to Register Your Child for Kindergarten in Ticino (Scuola dell’Infanzia) – 2026 Guide
If you are moving to Ticino with young children, understanding how kindergarten registration works is essential. In Ticino, Scuola dell’infanzia is mandatory from age 4 and is part of the official Swiss education system (HarmoS). This guide explains who must register, when, where, and how, including required documents, deadlines, costs, and language support for non-Italian-speaking children, using only official cantonal and municipal sources. It applies to all Comuni in Ticino, including Lugano, Bellinzona, Locarno, Mendrisio, and surrounding municipalities.
Summary (For Parents in a Hurry)
What is it called? Scuola dell'infanzia (SI).
Is it mandatory? Yes, from age 4. (Voluntary from age 3).
The Age Rule (HarmoS): Children turning 4 by July 31st must start school in September.
Cost: Public is Free.
Language: Public school is 100% Italian.
Free Italian pre-courses (Pre-corso) are available for non-Italian-speaking children
Registration Deadline: Typically January/February for the following September.
Registration is cantonal, but managed by your Comune
What Is Scuola dell’Infanzia in Ticino and How Does It Work?
Scuola dell’infanzia is the first level of compulsory education in Ticino.
It usually lasts:
2 years (ages 4–5)
With attendance Monday to Friday
Half-day or full-day options depending on the Comune
The goal is:
Socialization
Language development (Italian)
Preparation for Scuola elementare
Public Kindergarten vs Private / International Kindergarten in Ticino
Public Kindergarten (Scuola dell’Infanzia Pubblica)
Pros
Free of charge
Very high educational standards
Strong focus on child development
Full integration into Swiss society
Cons
Instruction is in Italian only
This is the default and recommended option for most families living in Ticino.
How Much Does the kindergarten Cost?
Some international schools (e.g. TASIS) offer kindergarten-level programs.
Type | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
Public kindergarten | Free* |
International kindergarten | CHF 20,000–30,000/year |
Private kindergarten is not required to fulfill compulsory education if the child is registered in the public system.
How Much Does Public Kindergarten Really Cost in Ticino?
Item | Cost |
|---|---|
Tuition | Free |
Mensa scolastica | CHF 8–12 per meal |
Materials | Free |
Transport | Free or subsidized (Comune rules) |
Which Children Can Start Kindergarten in Ticino in 2026?
Eligibility is based on year of birth, not arrival date.
Generally:
Children who turn 4 by 31 July 2026 are eligible for the 2026–2027 school year
Each Comune publishes official confirmation via the Istituto Scolastico Comunale.
If you are unsure, contact your Comune directly.
What documents are required for kindergarten registration in Ticino?
- Parents’ passport or ID
- Child’s passport or ID
- Residence permit (Permit B, L, or C)
- Health insurance certificate (LAMal)
- Proof of residence (attestazione di domicilio)
- Vaccination booklet (libretto vaccinale)
- Previous school records (if applicable)
What if my child doesn’t speak Italian?
This is very common and not a problem.
Pre-corso di Italiano
DECS offers a free Pre-corso for non-Italian-speaking children.
Focus: Italian language & school routine
Timing: Before the school year starts
Cost: Free
Strongly recommended
Children also receive ongoing language support during the school year.
Half-Day or Full-Day Kindergarten in Ticino
Options vary by Comune:
Morning only
Morning + mensa
Full day
Availability depends on:
School capacity
Family situation
Comune policies
Always ask about mensa availability during registration.
What Is The Kindergarten Registration Deadline in Ticino?
Registration deadlines are strict.
Typical timeline:
January–February: Registration opens
March: Confirmation letters sent
September: Kindergarten starts
If you arrive after the deadline, contact the Ufficio scolastico comunale immediately. Late enrollment is possible but handled case-by-case.
Practical Tips From Families Living in Ticino
- Register even if your permit is still processing:
- Ask specifically about mensa availability:
- Children adapt faster than adults- do not delay for language fears:
- Comune staff are helpful but expect Italian (bring support if needed):
- Read more about the education :
This guide is part of our family and education resources for internationals living in Ticino.
Frequently Asked Questions About kindergartens in Ticino (FAQ)
- Is kindergarten mandatory in Ticino?
Yes. From age 4, Scuola dell’infanzia is compulsory.
- Is vaccination mandatory for school in Ticino?
Strictly speaking, there is no federal obligation to vaccinate. However, the school requests the booklet to assess risk. In the event of an outbreak (e.g., Measles), the Cantonal Doctor (Medico Cantonale) may exclude unvaccinated children from school for the duration of the outbreak.
- What happens on Wednesdays?
Public schools in Ticino are closed on Wednesday afternoons. You must either pick up your child at 11:30 or register for specific "Wednesday Afternoon" care programs (often run by external associations like Croce Rossa or private nurseries), as the school staff goes home.
- Is homeschooling allowed?
Only in exceptional cases and with DECS authorization.
- Is the process different in Lugano vs Bellinzona?
The rules are cantonal, but administration is handled by each Comune.