Onboarding Checklist - CERN Starter Pack

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3 Months Before Moving

Apply for Convenio Especial with Spanish Social Security

Gather key documents (DNI, birth certificates, diplomas, medical records)

Research housing options (Switzerland vs France)

Plan health insurance transition (EHIC, CHIS enrolment timeline)

Open a Swiss or French bank account (or set up Wise/Revolut)

Arrange housing or book CERN hostel for first weeks

Book travel and plan move logistics

Notify current employer and finalise departure from Spain

Complete CERN arrival formalities (HR, badge, carte de legitimation)

Set up CHIS health insurance and register dependents

Activate CERN computing account and set up email

Attend the CERN Newcomer Welcome Session

Set up direct debit for Convenio Especial payments

Confirm alta consular at the Spanish Consulate in Geneva

Open a local bank account if not done yet

Obtain residence permit or carte de legitimation

Set up Kerberos, SSH keys, and VPN for remote access

File French tax return (if residing in France)

Check Modelo 720 obligation for foreign assets

Review CERN Pension Fund enrolment and options

Handle Spanish IRPF declaration for the transition year

Renew residence permit if needed

Complete CERN mandatory safety and security training

Maintained by Efrén Rodríguez Rodríguez. Content and official sources are reviewed quarterly.

Note: this content is informational and does not constitute professional legal or tax advice.