This is a follow-up to the article, How to Get Permanent Residency in Switzerland in 2022 – Part 1.
Introduction
It’s easy to understand why Switzerland is so famous among expats, with its stunning countryside and postcard-perfect cities. You may need to apply for permanent residency in Switzerland if you intend to work and live there.
Every year, Switzerland is noted for receiving a considerable number of immigrants. Outsiders from other nations make up over a quarter of Switzerland’s total population. Regardless of your country, you must apply for a Swiss residence permit if you want to stay in Switzerland for more than 3 months. Anyone who wants to apply for a Swiss residence permit should first apply for a C permit, which allows them to stay in Switzerland permanently.
Application Process for Permanent Residency in Switzerland
Each canton in Switzerland has its own set of rules and processes for obtaining a “C” authorization. As a result, you’ll need to contact your local cantonal immigration office, who will tell you what you need to do.
Typically, you will be required to complete an application form and submit the following:
- legitimate identification;
- Switzerland’s address
- proof of a valid residence permit (such as a “B” or “L” permit);
- evidence that you satisfy the minimum standards (eg language certificates)
Biometric permanent residency permits in the style of a credit card are now being issued in Switzerland. These residency permits in Switzerland come with a microchip that saves the holder’s biometric information and allow visa-free travel across the Schengen region.
Cost of Permanent Residency in Switzerland
The cost of obtaining a “C” permit for permanent residency in Switzerland varies by canton. Non-EU/EFTA nationals may face higher fees in several cantons. Furthermore, children often pay less. For more information on your specific circumstances, contact your particular canton.
An adult permit usually costs no more than CHF 95. Permits for children cost roughly CHF 35. Some cantons, however, levy a higher fee. For example, the canton of Ticino currently charges CHF 110 for EU/EFTA nationals and CHF 147 for third-country nationals for a “C” permit.
Renewing Permanent Residency in Switzerland
Permits with the letter “C” typically have a 5-year validity period. To renew your permit, you must notify your local cantonal immigration office at least three months before the expiration date on your permit or card, and no later than 2 weeks before the expiration date.
Anyone intending to renew their permanent residency in Switzerland must now fulfill integration and good conduct standards as a result of recent revisions to the laws. If you don’t satisfy these criteria, your permission may be degraded to a “B” permit.
The processes and expenses for renewing “C” permits are different in each Swiss canton. As a minimum, you’ll need your current “C” permit, a valid passport/photo ID, and proof of residency. For complete information, please contact your local cantonal immigration office.
If you travel out of Switzerland for a period of more than 6 months, your permanent residency permit will lapse. It is possible to prolong this term of absence for up to four years provided you tell the Swiss authorities ahead of time.
If you lose your residence permit card, you should report it immediately to the police and request a new permit at your local cantonal office.
Permanent Residency in Switzerland for Family Members
Under the family reunion program, family members can join people who have a “C” permission for permanent residency in Switzerland. The following relatives are eligible to participate:
- registered partners or spouses
- youngsters under the age of eighteen
- EU/EFTA citizens can also bring their parents, grandparents, and children over the age of 18 if they can demonstrate financial independence without relying on state funding.
Family members of permanent residents will initially get a “B” visa and, if they complete the conditions, will be allowed to apply for a “C” permit for permanent residency after 5 years. Children under the age of 12 will receive a “C” permit right away.
Details, including application fees, vary by canton, so you’ll need to contact your local cantonal immigration office for more information. Family members will often be expected to provide:
- a valid passport or picture ID
- Non-EU/EFTA nationals may be required to get a Swiss visa.
- evidence of kindness to a Swiss resident family member
- proof that they can sustain themselves or be financially supported without relying on Swiss government subsidies
- evidence of language skills in the canton’s native tongue (only for non-EU/EFTA candidates)
The residence permits of family members will be valid for the same period as the relatives with whom they are joining. They are free to seek employment, but must first register with their labor market authorities and cantonal immigration.
Losing Permanent Residency in Switzerland
If holders of “C” permits fail to satisfy the requirements for residence in Switzerland, the Swiss authorities have the right to withdraw or downgrade them. According to new legislation enacted in January 2019, permits can be reduced from C to B if:
When seeking for a “C” permit, the permit holder lied about essential details;
- the permit holder has been charged in a criminal case;
- the permit holder poses a national or international security hazard;
- the permit holder has been getting government assistance;
- the permit holder is not well-integrated into Swiss society.
Furthermore, unless the holder has contacted the immigration authorities and arranged a long term of absence, “C” permits become null and invalid if the holder leaves Switzerland for more than six months.
If you lose your right to permanent residency in Switzerland, you can apply again as soon as you are eligible.
What happens if your application for permanent residency in Switzerland is denied?
You should reach out to your cantonal migration office if you have any questions about Swiss resident permits. If you are not satisfied with the response, you can file a complaint with the SEM, which is in charge of immigration and residency permits in Switzerland.
If you do not fulfill the conditions for a “C” permit, the cantonal authorities in Switzerland have the authority to decline your application. You can submit a letter of appeal to the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country if your Swiss visa application is denied. You’ll need to explain why you’re disputing the judgment. If you believe you have been treated unfairly, you should first contact your cantonal immigration office to file a complaint.
If this fails, you should contact the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). If they believe you have a strong case for having your application decision reversed, they will be able to guide you on the next actions to take.
Conclusion
If you are want to get a permanent residency in Switzerland, it is advisable to first consider all options and talk to an expat advisor so you won’t make mistakes along the way and regret them.
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