If you’re planning to leave Geneva, one important task to keep in mind is closing your child’s school or daycare registration. Whether your child attends a public school, a private institution, an international school, or a crèche, the process involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth transition and avoid administrative issues later on.

Inform the school or daycare of departure

Notify the school or crèche in writing as soon as your departure date is fixed. I recommend sending the letter via registered mail (here is how) Many institutions require a notice period (commonly at least 14 days), though some private schools and daycares may require longer or a registered letter. Always confirm the notice terms in your contract.

Submit formal deregistration with municipal authorities

You must deregister (annonce de départ) with Geneva’s population office (OCPM) no later than 14 days before leaving the canton. Here is my dedicated article explaining how to deregister.

Retrieve final school documents

Request official records from the school or daycare, including progress reports, transcripts, development summaries (for young children), and confirmation of attendance. For public schools, the school secretariat usually provides official documents.

Return borrowed school materials

Make sure to return all borrowed books, electronics, or other school-owned materials before the departure date. In some cases, schools or daycare centers may delay issuing final documentation until everything is accounted for.

Settle fees and contractual obligations

Check your contract terms. Private schools and crèches often enforce notice periods. Some international schools require notice by March 31 or January 31 to avoid additional charges. Late notice may lead to continued tuition billing or forfeiture of deposits. Daycares may require cancellation via registered letter.

Leaving an international school in Geneva

Most international schools require written notice at least one term in advance. Some schools set fixed deadlines for notice (for example, March 31 for the following academic year). Others require written notice by January 31. Notification deadlines vary by institution and are often found in enrollment contracts or parent handbooks.

Be sure to request the following documents before your departure:

A full transcript or academic report
A certificate of attendance showing enrollment dates
Development notes or teacher observations for young children
Recommendation letters if needed

Also remember to:

Return all school-issued items like laptops, books, and ID badges
Pay any outstanding balances
Ask for a written confirmation of withdrawal

Obtain written confirmation of deregistration

Ask both the school or crèche and the OCPM (Office cantonal de la population et des migrations) for an official departure confirmation (attestation de départ). This can be useful when settling accounts or enrolling in a new school elsewhere.