Learn more about Permanent residency in Switzerland
Are you looking to become a citizen of Switzerland? The first step in obtaining Swiss citizenship is to become a permanent resident. Anyone living in Switzerland for a considerable period and meets all other essential requirements is eligible for permanent residency and even citizenship. The permit that confers permanent residency on the holder is called the “C” permit.
However, many ex-pats in Switzerland prefer to remain permanent residents rather than become full citizens, as obtaining permanent residency is a relatively more straightforward process than acquiring citizenship. According to a study conducted by the Federal Commission on Migration in 2012, only 2% of those eligible for citizenship applied for it the previous year.
Switzerland offers various visas and residence permits. The State Secretariat for Migration issues residency permits via the local cantonal migration offices. The “C” permit is the permanent residence permit. Holders of this permit can stay in Switzerland indefinitely, though there are stipulations on how long they can stay out of the country.
The “C” permit allows holders to move freely throughout Switzerland and change jobs without permission from the current employer. It is distinct from Switzerland’s other two main residency permits: “L” permit is a temporary residence permit valid for up to one year; “B” permit is a residence permit issued for one year but can be renewed.
The residency requirement for a “C” permit is ten years in Switzerland. After five years, citizens of EU/EFTA countries, the United States, and Canada can apply. Relatives of Swiss citizens are also eligible to apply earlier.
It is essential to remember that a person residing in Switzerland requires a mandatory health insurance policy. You may reach out to insurance companies; they’ll provide detailed information about the type of health insurance available in Switzerland and you can also compare the best health insurance plan, as per your requirement.
The distinction between citizenship and permanent residency
Swiss citizenship and permanent residence share many similarities. The basic residency requirements are ten years, though the waiting period is less for specific groups. Demonstrating an adequate level of integration with the Swiss way of life and customs is required to obtain both a permanent residency and citizenship.
Many people who apply for citizenship in Switzerland, such as those who go through the regular naturalization process, need a “C” residence permit. Thus becoming a permanent resident is intrinsic to becoming a citizen.
Other similarities include access to the Swiss labor market, the option to work as a freelancer, access to social benefits, etc. They have access to free education in Switzerland, access to grants, and the freedom to reside anywhere in Switzerland. Access to Swiss welfare measures (although taking advantage of these may affect your citizenship prospects.
Obtaining full Swiss citizenship confers additional benefits on the holder. As a Swiss citizen, you have the right to a Swiss passport and the ability to travel abroad with all the privileges of a Swiss citizen. Further, you have the right to vote in elections, the right to run for public office in Switzerland, and the freedom to travel in and out of Switzerland as often as you want. You can also leave the country for as long as you want without losing your residency rights.
However, Swiss citizenship entails additional obligations. For example, all-male Swiss citizens between 18 and 34 must serve in the military. Furthermore, citizenship applications are more expensive, and the process can take up to a year. So, ex-pats should consider these factors.
Permanent Residency Options for Family Members
Under the family reunion program, a “C” permit holder can invite their family members to reside in Switzerland. Relatives eligible to join the permanent resident are spouses and minor children under 18. EU/EFTA nationals may also bring their parents, grandparents, and children over the age of 18 if they can demonstrate financial independence without relying on public funds.
Family members will first be issued a “B” permit and can apply for a “C” permit for permanent residency after five years, provided they meet the requirements. Children under 12 will be issued a “C” permit without first applying for a “B” permit.
Requirements include kinship with a family member who is a Swiss resident, proof that they can support themselves or are financially independent (without relying on Swiss public funds), and evidence of requisite language skills (canton’s national language-only non-EU/EFTA applicants).
Typically, family members must provide a passport or photo ID; Non-EU/EFTA nationals may require a Swiss visa. The residence permits of family members will be valid for the same period as those of the relatives they are joining. They are free to look for work but must first register with their cantonal immigration and labor market authorities. Detailed requirements, application fees, etc., vary by canton, so you should contact your desired cantonal immigration office for more information.
Conclusion
Becoming a permanent resident in Switzerland is easier than applying for full Swiss citizenship. You will, however, need to meet several requirements, including minimum residency duration, displaying the required necessary language skills in any of the official languages of French, German, Italian and Romansh.
The perks of obtaining permanent residency and eventually citizenship are world-class education, the freedom to buy property, and a powerful passport with visa-free access to more than 100 countries.
There are pros and cons to the choices of remaining a permanent resident or embracing citizenship. Hopefully, this article will guide you in making the right decision.
