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🇨🇭 Switzerland

B Permit (Residence) Visa

Standard residence permit for long-term employment (contracts of 12+ months). Subject to annual quota of 4,500 permits for non-EU/EFTA nationals. EU/EFTA citizens receive B permits automatically upon registering employment. Valid for 5 years for EU/EFTA citizens, 1 year (renewable) for others. Provides path to C permit after 5-10 years depending on nationality and integration. Allows family reunification for spouse and children under 18. Work rights tied to employer unless holding EU/EFTA nationality. Most common permit type for expat professionals.

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Processing Time

4-12 weeks for initial permit

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Cost

CHF 100-300 depending on canton

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Duration

1 year (non-EU/EFTA, renewable) or 5 years (EU/EFTA)

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Work Rights

EU/EFTA: any employer; Others: tied to sponsoring employer

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Renewability

Renewable annually while employed

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Path to Permanent Residence

Yes

Requirements

  • 1Employment contract of 12+ months
  • 2Employer sponsorship (non-EU/EFTA)
  • 3Valid passport
  • 4Proof of local recruitment efforts (non-EU/EFTA)
  • 5Salary at Swiss market rates
  • 6Health insurance within 3 months
  • 7Registration with commune within 14 days of arrival

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