Over the years, the Canton of Vaud and the City of Lausanne, in close collaboration with the Swiss federal authorities, have developed a range of tailored benefits and support measures designed to make the region an attractive base for international sport organisations.
International Sport Federations (IFs) and organisations relocating to Lausanne and the Canton of Vaud enjoy a uniquely supportive environment tailored to their needs. With nearly 60 IFs already based in the Olympic Capital, newcomers benefit from both attractive relocation incentives and a robust integration programme to ensure a seamless transition.
Sport organisations and IFs can access a dedicated assistance service to streamline the visa process for non-Swiss nationals.
Unlike other employers, IFs and sport organizations are not required to prioritize candidates from the European job market and receive tailored support for hiring individuals of any nationality.
IFs and sport organizations benefit from unrestricted real estate acquisition for operational purposes and future expansion, alongside dedicated assistance from the Lausanne Olympic Capital Team for office and housing solutions, connecting them directly with local stakeholders for a smooth transition. The Maison du Sport International (MSI) is dedicated to hosting
international federations, organizations, and specialized businesses. It is located in a prime spot close to the lake, the IOC, and more. It offers shared facilities and networking opportunities.
Organisations leasing or purchasing property in the region may be eligible for several years of rent-free office space within the City of Lausanne and/or elsewhere in the Canton, subject to certain conditions.
IFs and sport organisations are exempt from financial guarantees for temporary exports, provided they commit to paying applicable taxes/duties upon re-importation.
IFs and sport organisations in Switzerland benefit from a range of favourable tax conditions. Switzerland applies a competitively low VAT rate of 8.1% on revenue-generating activities, even for non-profit organisations. Upon request, and with the support of Lausanne Olympic Capital, federal authorities may also simplify VAT procedures for IFs and sport organisations when necessary.
Being part of the Lausanne Olympic Capital ecosystem—with 60+ IFs and sport organizations based in the region—gives federations and sport organizations access to a variety of opportunities designed to support networking, learning, and professional growth for both staff and executives. All of these are provided as a complimentary benefit by Lausanne Olympic Capital.
Staff from IFs and sport organizations can benefit from Continuous Training by attending a series of eight complimentary seminars focusing on key areas of IF operations, featuring expert speakers.
Executives from IFs and sport organisations can attend complimentary gatherings featuring expert speakers from various sectors, offering cross-sector insights and exchange opportunities.
Annual gathering allowing Presidents, Secretary Generals, and Directors of IFs and sport organisations to connect with Swiss federal, Vaud, Lausanne, and IOC representatives to discuss current priorities and future sports industry developments.
Staff of IFs and sport organizations can access networking opportunities and often receive complimentary or discounted tickets to numerous sporting and cultural events hosted by the City of Lausanne and Canton of Vaud.
Staff from IFs and sport organizations can participate in social activities around recurring sporting events in the Olympic Capital, offering opportunities to compete and engage with the local sports community.
New staff and their partners at IFs and Sport Organisations can attend a complimentary briefing to learn about their new home, the local sports community, and essential newcomer logistics.
Being based in the Olympic Capital isn’t just about work – it’s about enjoying an exceptional quality of life. Switzerland is consistently ranked among the best countries to live in, offering a wide range of advantages:
Living in the Olympic Capital offers an exceptional quality of life in Switzerland, a top-ranked country known for excellent public services, world-class healthcare and education and safety.
The Olympic Capital and surrounding region offer diverse leisure activities, including Lake Léman watersports, Alpine hiking/biking/snow sports, the Lavaux vineyards, a vibrant cultural scene, and exceptional dining.
Lausanne, as the Olympic Capital, provides numerous opportunities to stay active through its extensive sports club network (over 40,000 members across 70 sports) and a variety of mass participation events like marathons and triathlons, with exclusive perks for residents.
Lausanne and the Canton of Vaud are trusted hosts for major international sporting events, regularly securing and efficiently delivering high-profile competitions like the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup 2025 and Athletissima.
Lausanne and the Canton of Vaud offer a unique blend of sport, culture, technology, health research, and innovation—making it an exceptional place to grow your sport and organisation. As both a business and academic hub, the region provides International Federations and sport organisations with direct access to highly specialised industries that can support and accelerate their development. With a thriving ecosystem of startups, cutting-edge research institutions, and innovation-driven companies, Lausanne fosters cross-sector collaboration and creative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the global sports community.
IFs and Sport Organisations benefit from a rich academic ecosystem, including major universities (UNIL, EPFL, IMD, AISTS, etc..) and research institutions specializing in sport, with the SMART MOVE association fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to advance the future of sport. This also provides exceptional access to a deep pool of talent, facilitating the recruitment of leading professionals and specialists. ThinkSport, based in Lausanne, is a platform and catalyst that connects sport, business, and innovation stakeholders to foster collaboration and progress. Its flagship event, THE SPOT, serves as a dynamic gathering for exploring the future of sport.
The Office for Economic Promotion and Innovation (SPEI) in Vaud drives economic growth and oversees economic regulation, offering potential financial aid to IFs and sport organisations in the region.
The Canton de Vaud and City of Lausanne are world-renowned for hosting diverse events, from world championships to international congresses. With years of experience, a strong local network of professional service providers, and a community rich in volunteer support, our region delivers events with excellence and innovation.
Learn more about how we can help you plan your event
Lausanne and the Canton of Vaud offer a unique setting — a stunning blend of city, mountains, and iconic locations — ideal for hosting world-class events. International Federations (IFs) and sport organizations benefit from tailored assistance provided by Lausanne Olympic Capital and local authorities.
This support extends to major sporting events as well as summits, general assemblies, conferences, awards, forums, congresses, draws, etc.
Prestigious past and upcoming sporting events in Lausanne and or the Canton of Vaud:
