Residence permits, work permits, EU Blue Cards, citizenship applications and visa advice for foreigners.
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Geneva-based international firm with strong English-speaking practice; specializing in banking and finance
Geneva office of major Swiss firm specializing in corporate and immigration matters for expats
Geneva boutique firm with strong English practice in family and immigration law
Immigration-focused firm with multilingual English-speaking team; specializes in expat services
Specialized immigration law firm with fluent English lawyers; experts in residence permits and work permits
International firm with strong Geneva office specializing in immigration and expat services
Some countries offer residence permits linked to property investment (Golden Visa). An immigration lawyer can advise on thresholds and eligibility.
Processing times vary by country — typically 1–6 months. Your lawyer can track the application and respond to any requests for additional documentation.
Browse our verified directory of law firms across Switzerland's major cities. All listed firms offer English-language legal services to expats and foreign nationals.
Find My Lawyer in 60 SecondsAuG/AIG (Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz) governs all foreign nationals' stay, work, and integration. Three tiers of permits and distinct rules for EEA/EFTA vs. third-country nationals.
Non-EEA (Third-Country) Citizens: Aufenthaltsbewilligung B (1-year renewable residence permit) requires employment offer, cantonal approval, and proof of integration (language, housing). Niederlassungsbewilligung C (5-year residence permit, renewable; path to permanent residency after 10yr continuous B permits or 5yr with successful integration). Labor market test applied: employer must prove no qualified Swiss/EEA candidate available.
EU/EFTA Citizens: Personenfreizügigkeit (Freedom of Movement) under bilateral I agreement allows residence without pre-approval for employment, self-employment, or study. Kurzaufenthaltsbewilligung L (short-term, up to 12 months) for temporary work/internships. Registration required but approval typically automatic.
Arbeitsbewilligung (Work Permit): EU/EFTA nationals can work immediately; non-EEA require separate work permit (usually issued with residence permit). Seasonal work (SAI/SEMO) limited to 8 weeks/year for non-EEA; quota-based in certain sectors.
Case Study: Indian software engineer, age 28, hired by Zurich tech company (salary CHF 180,000). Timeline: Employer files cantonal request (1-2 weeks) → SECO/SEM approval (3-4 weeks) → Permit B issued (multientry visa valid 3 months for entry) → Arrival and Anmeldung (registration, instant) → Permit B card issued (several weeks). Total: 6-10 weeks. Renewal annual; after 5 years continuous B + demonstrated integration → Path to C permit.
