Overview: The most important residence permits in Switzerland

If you have ever thought about staying in Switzerland for a longer period of time you will know that the most important thing to sort out right at the start is your residence permit!

There are many different types of residence permits in Switzerland. To make things a little clearer and give you a good overview I have summed up the most important permits in the following paragraphs.

L Permit for short-term residence

It is a short term authorization to work or reside in Switzerland.This permit is valid for up to one year. Usually people receive this permit if they move to Switzerland for a specific job, but only have a work contract that is valid for up to 12 months.

B Permit for initial or temporary residence

The B-permit is issued for five years to EU/EFTA nationals, whereas for non-EU/EFTA nationals it is issued for one year. However, it can be renewed if needed.

You will receive a B permit if you want to move to Switzerland to work or study there. As such, you will need to have a work contract or be enrolled in a Swiss educational institution.

C Permit for permanent residence

For EU/EFTA nationals, US and Canadian citizens must have been living in Switzerland for five consecutive years before they can apply for their C-Permit.

Non-EU/EFTA immigrants on the other hand must have lived for at least 10 continuous years in Switzerland before they can apply for a C Permit and become permanent residents.