To all those that answered my question, thanks for your input. The UK certainly makes it possible to be resident in two countries, even if the Swiss do not agree...
I still think this all means I may be inadvertently breaking the law in each set of countries in certain circumstances, but not in others. Further proof, if you needed it, that the law is an ass...
And more proof that whoever makes the laws for diplomats and UN people makes them more favourable (or is that sensible???)
Regards
Ian
Long story short. You can either:
- live in Switzerland and buy tax-free vehicle, and register it in Switzerland, with Swiss insurance of course. After three years, you would be able to sell this car as normal Swiss registered car (if you do want to sell before three years had lapsed, a buyer will need to pay the import/customs fees).
- live in France, register it in France, hence pay French taxes and insurance. The car is then like any other French registered vehicle.
Of other disadvantages of living in France, the big one is if you are going to seek employment - you will only be able to get hired by the UN, but not by commercial sector neither in Switzerland nor in France.