Quick Answer
- What it is:
- Residence Permit — a visa procedure in Switzerland.
- Deadline:
- 14 days
- Steps:
- 4 steps
- Cost:
- CHF 150
- Documents:
- 7 required
- Legal basis:
- AIG Art. 33
Important Deadlines
Apply within 14 days of arrival for EU/EFTA citizens
Renewal: apply 2 months before expiry
Late renewal can result in gaps in legal status
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Passport photos (2x biometric)
- ✓Employment contract or proof of self-employment
- ✓Rental contract or proof of accommodation
- ✓Health insurance certificate
- ✓Criminal record certificate from home country
- ✓Diploma/qualification recognition (for regulated professions)
Step-by-Step Guide
Determine your permit type: B (temporary), C (permanent/Niederlassungsbewilligung), L (short-term), G (cross-border commuter).
Pro tip: EU/EFTA citizens get B permit almost automatically with an employment contract ≥ 1 year. Non-EU requires employer sponsorship.
Your employer usually initiates the application at the cantonal Migrationsamt (migration office).
Pro tip: For self-employed: apply at the cantonal migration office yourself with a business plan.
Submit required documents to the cantonal Migrationsamt.
Pro tip: Processing times vary: 2 weeks (EU/EFTA) to 3 months (non-EU).
Receive your Ausländerausweis (foreigner's ID card) — carry it at all times.
Pro tip: B permit is valid for 5 years (EU) or 1 year (non-EU, renewable). C permit after 5-10 years.
Fees
Legal Basis
Also Known As
This procedure is commonly searched under these names:
Official Resources
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