Permits

Swiss permits

In Switzerland, the law on Foreigners and Integration (LEI) regulates the different types of permits and visas. A “L” or “B” permit is mandatory for any foreigner planning to live and work in Switzerland (art. 11 al. 1 LEI).

Despite the fact that Switzerland is not a member of the EU, the same conditions apply to EU/EFTA citizens wishing to live and work on Swiss territory. Switzerland has signed the freedom of movement agreement as part of the bilateral agreement with the EU, allowing EU-27/EFTA citizens to enter, reside and work in the country.

Obtaining a work permit in Switzerland relies on different factors: whether (1) the applicant is an EU-27/EFTA citizen, (2) holds a work contract, (3) number of permits available per canton (annual quotas), and (4) the level of skills and expertise held by the applicant. Only skilled workers can be hired from the non-EU job market, preferably in fields recognised being in shortage of specialists.

Residency permits can also be obtained for foreigners over 55 planning to retire in Switzerland, under specific conditions.

Essential Guide to Swiss Immigration

Navigate the Swiss immigration system without any issues affecting you and your family. Find key answers about permit procedures, work authorizations and naturalization pathways here. Contact our team today for expert guidance and support.

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Browse our free content topics below. Some answers to most of the important and frequently asked questions can be found here.

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Apply for a B Permit

Settling in Switzerland

Apply for a L Permit

Short-term authorization to work or reside in Switzerland

Apply for a G Permit

Cross-border workers. Apply online through DeliverPermit if you are an EU-27 citizen

Apply for a C Permit

Settling in Switzerland on a permanent basis

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What are the eligibility criteria for obtaining a B permit in Switzerland?

The B permit, also known as “autorisation de séjour,” is granted to skilled non-EU workers, EU-27/EFTA workers or residents, individuals seeking family reunification, and retirees over 55 under specific provisions outlined in art. 33 al. 2 LEI.

Apply for a B Permit

What does the G permit offer to workers residing in neighboring countries and working in Switzerland?

The G permit, also known as “permis frontalier,” permits residents of neighboring countries like France, Germany, or Italy to work in Switzerland under specific conditions outlined in art. 35 LEI. It allows cross-border workers to apply online and commence work immediately.

Apply for a G Permit

What are the pathways to acquiring Swiss citizenship, and what conditions or considerations are involved?

Swiss citizenship can be attained through birth, adoption, marriage, or via application following 10 years of residency in Switzerland. Children born overseas to a Swiss parent automatically hold citizenship until 25, yet retaining it requires formal declaration. Becoming Swiss involves genuine integration into Swiss society and a commitment to its political and social life.

Swiss naturalization

What are the visa options for entering Switzerland for an extended stay?

For longer stays in Switzerland, one can apply for a long-term D visa, which can be obtained for purposes like marriage, family reunification, or work permit approval, allowing entry and lawful work until the permit is finalized.

Work permit applications in Switzerland, how to?

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