Permits to work and live in Switzerland

Last update: January, 2024

Permit B It is granted to an applicant with the nationality of an EU-EFTA country who intends to settle in Switzerland in order to pursue gainful employment (employed or self-employed) or to reside in Switzerland without gainful employment (study, gainful employment, pensioner, etc.). It may also be granted to family members, irrespective of their nationality, who are entitled to a permit in the context of family reunification. The B permit is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed. To be gainfully employed, a declaration of employment (e.g. employment contract) is required. If you are self-employed, you must be able to prove that your activity is being carried out effectively and sustainably.
Permit C It may be granted to foreign nationals who have been residing legally in Switzerland, as a rule for at least ten years, with a B residence permit. It allows an unlimited and unconditional right of residence.
Permit G Commonly referred to as the cross-border commuter permit. It allows EU/EFTA nationals staying in the territory of an EU/EFTA state to work in Switzerland or set up their own (self-employed) business without transferring their residence.