Relocating from the UK to Switzerland
Switzerland, while not an EU member, is part of the European Economic Area. This means UK residents can move here under less complicated conditions. The UK’s exit from the EU doesn’t affect those relocating to Switzerland, which is a significant advantage. Our team is ready to provide legal support for your move from the UK to Switzerland.
Our Swiss immigration experts outline the main steps and visa options for UK nationals:
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Criteria for UK Nationals Moving to Switzerland
UK citizens looking to stay in Switzerland long-term must apply for one of these visas:
- A B residence permit for work contracts over 12 months.
- A C settlement permit for indefinite stays, renewable every 5 years.
- A Ci permit for EU/EEA citizens working for international organizations.
- An L short-term permit valid up to 1 year.
To move, you’ll need to secure a work, study, or family visa and the corresponding residence permit. Our experts can guide you through choosing and applying for the right visa.
Remember, the validity of L and B permits matches your employment contract length. The B permit suits those starting small businesses as independent contractors.
Need advice on Swiss residence permits? We’re here to help with your move from the UK.
Paperwork for Moving from the UK to Switzerland
Prepare these documents for the Swiss Embassy:
- A valid passport (recommended to be valid for at least six months upon application).
- Proof of housing in Switzerland.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- Documentation supporting your relocation reason (e.g., work contract).
Our experts can advise on affordable cantons to move to and assist with residency permit applications.
How to Apply for a Work Permit as a British National
Switzerland attracts many for its high living standards and salaries. If you plan to work here for more than eight days annually, you’ll need a work permit. Non-Swiss nationals typically require an immigration authorization, either as a work permit or combined work and residency permit.
The Swiss work visa, or national D-visa, allows you to work during its validity period.
Eligibility for a Swiss work visa includes:
- Being a seasoned professional with experience.
- Having a job offer from a Swiss company.
- Meeting Swiss work permit criteria.
If you meet these and your employer requests your residence permit, you can apply for a work visa.
Moving via Family Reunion from the UK to Switzerland
Living in Switzerland may allow you to invite family members to join you. For a family reunion visa, submit:
- An application form.
- A valid passport.
- Four recent biometric photos.
- Marriage and birth certificates (translated and notarized).
- Copies of the Swiss resident’s ID and criminal history.
New family members might need to prove basic language skills or enrollment in a language course.
Retiring in Switzerland
Switzerland is ideal for retirement, offering a special retirement visa for those over 55 who are financially self-sufficient and have health insurance.
Swiss Permanent Residence for British Nationals
After five years of continuous residence, you can apply for a C settlement permit. Citizenship is possible after ten years of residence and successful integration.
Help in Relocating from the UK to Switzerland
Our services include:
- Preparing immigration documents.
- Registering with local authorities.
- Applying for and renewing residence permits.
- Explaining specific regulations for moving to Switzerland.
Remember to register with local authorities within 14 days of arriving.
For assistance with moving or investing for Swiss citizenship, contact our immigration experts.
Foreign Nationals Residing in Switzerland
According to SwissInfo.ch, immigrants comprised 25% of Switzerland’s population at the end of 2015 and 2016. With two million foreigners, mostly from EU countries like Germany, France, and Italy, they play a significant role in the nation’s diversity.
Need help with your move from the UK to Switzerland? Reach out to our solicitors for expert guidance.
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