Work Permits in Switzerland

The processing time for a Swiss work permit can take up to 15 weeks, though the exact duration depends on various factors.

To apply for a work permit in Switzerland, you must submit the following documents:

• Application Form: Three completed and signed long-stay visa (visa D) application forms in German, French, Italian, Spanish, or English. These forms can be downloaded online or obtained from the Swiss embassy or consulate.
• Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages, issued within the last 10 years, and valid for a minimum of three months beyond your intended stay in Switzerland. A photocopy of the passport’s photo, data, and signature pages is also required.
  Employment Contract: A valid employment contract from a Swiss employer, signed by both parties.
• Proof of Academic Degrees: Copies of your diplomas and certificates.
• Curriculum Vitae: Your most recent CV.
• Proof of Health Insurance: Health insurance covers your entire stay in Switzerland.
• Bank Statement: Bank statements from the last three months showing your name and sufficient funds.
• Letter from Employer: A letter on company letterhead detailing your job title, length of service, travel dates, purpose of visit, and who will cover your expenses.
• Passport Photos: Four recent, identical, biometric passport-size photos.
• Prepaid Envelope: A prepaid, self-addressed envelope for the return of your passport.

The application process and costs may vary depending on the region and your country of origin. Application forms for each canton can be found on their respective websites.

The duration of a Swiss work visa varies based on the type of permit:

• L Permit: A short-term permit for temporary employment or projects lasting under one year. It is tied to a specific employer and company. In some cases, it can be extended for another year, but the total duration cannot exceed 24 months.
• B Permit: A long-term permit for employment contracts of at least one year or indefinite duration. It can be renewed annually. However, if you are unemployed for 12 consecutive months at the time of renewal, the extension will be limited to one year.
• C Permit: A permanent residence permit that allows you to work for any employer, change jobs, and live anywhere in Switzerland. You can apply for a C Permit after living and working in Switzerland for ten years. For citizens of the EU/EFTA, the United States, or Canada, the application can be made after five years.

You may also apply for a settlement permit after living in Switzerland for ten years (or five years for EU/EFTA, U.S., or Canadian citizens).

Common work permit and visa frauds in Switzerland include:

• Counterfeit Correspondence: Scammers may send fake notices claiming a migrant's immigration status has been revoked. Always verify with your immigration provider.
• Fraudulent Job Offers: Scammers offer high-paying jobs and request advance payments. Verify the legitimacy of the offer before sharing personal information or sending money.
• Agencies: Employers, not applicants, are responsible for work permit applications. The Swiss Embassy does not work with agencies.

If you encounter fraud, report it to eu_immigration@sem.admin.ch and the National Cyber Security Centre. Working without a permit can lead to fines or up to one year in prison.

Our verification service shields you from scams by using official channels to confirm the authenticity of your work permit. Here’s how it works:

• Submit Documents: Upload your work permit and any related documents for review.
• Verification Process: We cross-check your permit against official government databases and collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure its validity.
• Receive Results: Within 3–5 business days, we provide a detailed report confirming the permit’s authenticity or outlining any discrepancies.

Additionally, our service offers continuous updates to keep you informed throughout the verification process, ensuring your peace of mind as you proceed with your employment in Switzerland.