Residency permits
Information and practical advice about residency permits in Switzerland.
'A nightmare': Lives of foreigners across Europe hit by residency card delays
Bureaucratic backlogs and rule changes on residency rights are having an increasing impact on the lives of foreigners living around Europe. Many say they have been left in legal limbo with their lives effectively on hold.
Do I need to speak a local language to get Switzerland's C Permit?
Switzerland has rules for holders of long-term or permanent permits —and for a good reason: language proficiency proves you can live and work in the country with a (relative) ease.
Which countries in Europe impose language tests for residency permits?
Certain countries across Europe demand foreign citizens pass a language test to qualify for certain residency permits. But how does each country compare and what level of language do they require?
Which nationalities get the most EU Blue Cards and where do they go?
The EU hands out thousands of Blue Cards to highly-skilled third country nationals each year, according to the latest figures. But which nationalities receive the most and which EU country gives out the most?
How Switzerland's language rules for residency can depend on your job
The general requirement for all foreign nationals working in Switzerland is to have a certain level of proficiency in a national language to qualify for their residency permit. The Local asked Swiss officials whether this rule is applied equally to all.
COMPARE: Which country in Europe is the easiest to retire to?
Finishing work and heading off to a glorious new life as a retiree in Europe is the dream for many, but just how easy is it to do in reality? We compare the rules in 9 countries in Europe.
Are EFTA nationals in Switzerland subjected to the same rules as EU citizens?
Switzerland has agreements in place for the nationals of the European Union as well as EFTA countries – Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. But are conditions equal for all?
What are your rights if you move to Switzerland with your partner?
If you are planning to follow your significant other to Switzerland, there are some important things you should know about the move.
In Numbers: Who do Europe's 3.57 million residency permits go to?
European countries countries issued some 3.57 million first time residency permits to non-EU nationals in 2024, 315,000 fewer than in 2023. How can the drop be explained?
Where in Europe gives the most residency permits to Americans, Brits and Indians?
Tens of thousands of Americans, Brits, Indians, Australians, Canadians, New Zealanders, Nigerians and South Africans moved to European countries on first residency permits in 2024. But where did they all go and what for?
How can foreign nationals bring their family members to Switzerland?
Family reunification can be tricky in Switzerland, depending on where you and your family are from. Here is what you need to know.
How long can I leave Switzerland for without losing my work permit?
If you are planning to leave Switzerland for a while, it is good to ensure that being out of the country won't affect your residency and working rights. This is what you should know.
Has Sweden accidentally proposed abolishing permanent residency for Swiss citizens?
The Swedish government's plan to tighten asylum rules to the strictest level allowable under EU law was supposed to be the crowning glory of its 'migration paradigm shift'. But the inquiry's first proposal could claim an unexpected victim: everyone from Switzerland.
What are my rights while I wait for my Swiss residence permit to be extended?
As a foreign national in Switzerland, your permit is a very important document, as it allows you to stay and work here. But what happens when it expires?
'Social glue': Why it's no surprise European states are toughening language requirements
With many countries in Europe imposing new or tougher language requirements for residency or citizenship, experts say it's no surprise given the rise of nationalist parties and the importance of language to national identity.
REVEALED: Thousands of Britons still moving to EU countries despite Brexit
More than 42,000 British citizens moved to EU countries in 2023, with the largest groups recorded in Spain, France and Germany, according to data published recently by the EU statistical office Eurostat.
Switzerland to stop foreign domestic violence victims losing residence permits
Both chambers of Switzerland’s parliament agree that a new law needs to be created to prevent foreign women who are abused by their partners from losing their residency permits.
COMPARED: What salary do you need to get a work permit in different European countries?
Several countries in Europe are reducing the salaries people from outside the EU need to be eligible for a work visa, although one – Sweden – is raising the threshold. Here's a comparison of current rules in the countries covered by The Local.
EXPLAINED: How to fast track permanent residency in Switzerland
For many foreign residents, permanent residency can bring about many benefits to daily life in Switzerland and eventually pave your way to Swiss citizenship. Here’s a step-by-step guide to fast tracking your Swiss permanent residency.
Reader question: Can I stay in Switzerland indefinitely if I am not a Swiss citizen?
While many foreign nationals living in the country eventually become naturalised, most never do. But can they remain in Switzerland long-term nevertheless?
Reader question: Can I keep my Swiss C permit if I go to study abroad?
There are situations when you may want to leave Switzerland for a longer time for example to study abroad? What does this mean for those with C permits?
How much does it cost to renew your residency permit in Switzerland?
If you are a foreign national living in Switzerland, your work/residence permit is an important document as it entitles you to stay and work in the country. This is what you should know about the cost of renewing it when it expires.
'Plan in advance': How easy is it to get permanent residency in Switzerland?
Getting a residence permit C can be a great way to secure your rights in Switzerland. The Local spoke to readers to find out their experiences of applying for it.