Your Integration Scorecard

Track your journey to becoming fully integrated in Ticino

Track Your Integration Progress in Ticino

Moving to a new country involves much more than paperwork. Integration in Ticino is a gradual process that combines practical setup, social connections, language confidence, and feeling comfortable with daily life.

This integration scorecard is designed to help expats and immigrants who have moved to Ticino understand what really matters, track progress over time, and identify which areas still need attention.

Unlike generic relocation checklists, this scorecard reflects the most common steps people complete after settling in Ticino - based on real experiences from those already living here.

What “Integration” Means in Everyday Life

Integration does not happen all at once. For most people in Ticino, it develops in stages:

Your score is not a judgment. It is a practical overview of what is already done and what could make life easier next.

If you are still at the beginning, that is completely normal.

How to Use This Scorecard Effectively

Use the scorecard as a personal reference, not a checklist you must rush through.

A good approach is:

  • Focus first on bureaucracy, healthcare, and practical setup

  • Then work on language, social life, and exploration

  • Review your score every few weeks rather than daily

Many people discover that once the essentials are handled, progress feels faster and less stressful.

If you are unsure where to start, our guides on living in Ticino and relocation basics can help clarify priorities.

Integration Looks Different for Everyone (and Every City)

Your experience may vary depending on where you live in Ticino.

For example:

  • In Lugano, services and international events are easier to find, but life can feel faster and more expensive

  • In Locarno, integration often happens through community activities and a slower social rhythm

  • In Bellinzona, routines tend to establish quickly thanks to good connections and accessibility

  • In Mendrisio, many people balance local life with cross-border work and family routines

There is no “right” speed. Feeling settled takes time.

Common Questions People Ask About Integration in Ticino

How long does integration usually take?
For most internationals, the first 3–6 months are focused on setup and orientation. Feeling truly at home often takes a year or more.

What should I prioritize first after moving?
Registration with the commune, healthcare insurance, and daily essentials usually reduce stress the most in the beginning.

Do I need to speak Italian fluently to integrate?
Fluency is not required at the start, but learning basic Italian significantly improves daily life and social connection over time.

What if my score feels low?
A low score simply means you are early in the process. Many people start at zero - progress comes naturally with time and exposure.

Useful Resources to Support Your Integration

You may find these sections helpful as you work through the scorecard:

Exploring these resources alongside the scorecard often makes the process clearer and less overwhelming.

A Final Note

Integration is not about ticking every box.
It is about reaching a point where life feels manageable, connected, and familiar.