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29 January 2025

How to obtain work permits & visas in Switzerland: a full guide

Written by

Written by: Hans

International Payroll Specialist

Relocating to Switzerland can offer an exceptional quality of life, breathtaking landscapes, and a stable professional environment. Known for its vibrant economy and excellent infrastructure, Switzerland has long been a top destination for highly skilled professionals from all corners of the globe.

However, before embracing the benefits of working in this Alpine nation, you must understand the country’s work permit and visa requirements. Understanding these rules can feel challenging, as Switzerland’s complex immigration system varies by nationality and canton.

That’s why being well-informed from the start is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the types of work permits available, outline common challenges you might face, and explain how an Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify the process.

1. Types of work permits & visas in Switzerland

Switzerland offers several primary categories of work permits, each with distinct eligibility requirements and conditions:

L permit (short-term work permit)

This permit is intended for people with employment contracts lasting less than one year. It is ideal for temporary assignments, internships, or project-based roles. Although renewable, the L permit typically serves as an entry point for those planning a limited stay in Switzerland.

B permit (long-term work permit)

The B permit is granted to individuals with long-term or open-ended contracts. It allows residency for up to five years, making it suitable for employees who plan to establish a more permanent presence. Non-EU/EFTA nationals must meet stricter criteria, including proof that their role cannot be filled by a local or EU candidate.

G permit (cross-border commuter permit)

Designed for individuals living in neighboring countries who commute to Switzerland for work, this permit is common among professionals residing in France, Germany, or Italy. Holders of the G permit maintain their primary residence abroad and return home at least once a week.

C permit (settlement permit)

After living in Switzerland for a specified period—usually five years for EU/EFTA citizens and up to ten years for non-EU nationals—you may be eligible for the C permit. This settlement permit offers more freedom in employment and does not require a direct link to a current employer.

For detailed and up-to-date information on visa categories and application requirements, visit the official Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) website. This resource provides an overview of residence permits, work authorizations, and key eligibility criteria. For those requiring guidance on cantonal procedures, refer to the respective cantonal migration offices via the Cantonal Migration Authorities page.

2.  Key challenges expats face

Relocating to Switzerland for work presents unique challenges, even for experienced expats. The country’s complex permit system is one of the first hurdles. Unlike some destinations, Switzerland doesn’t have a single streamlined application process. Instead, expats must understand federal, cantonal, and sometimes municipal requirements. Even within the same job category, different cantons may apply slightly varied rules, creating confusion for newcomers who expect uniformity.

Language barriers also play a significant role. Switzerland has four official languages—German, French, Italian, and Romansh—each predominating in different regions. An expat moving to Zurich might find German essential, while someone heading to Geneva needs French.

While many Swiss speak English, official documentation, local regulations, and government forms are typically presented in the regional language. This adds another layer of difficulty when submitting permit applications or understanding local labor laws.

Furthermore, the cost of living in Switzerland can be an adjustment. When confronted with high housing costs, mandatory health insurance contibutions, and the generally elevated price of goods and services, expats often face sticker shock. If permits are delayed or the first salary payment takes time, managing these expenses without a robust financial cushion can become stressful. This financial strain is compounded by the need to provide proof of sufficient funds during the visa process, adding pressure to ensure every document is perfectly prepared and submitted on time.

Finally, cultural adaptation and workplace norms can present subtler, equally impactful, challenges. Swiss workplaces tend to value precision, punctuality, and a high degree of professionalism. Understanding and aligning with these cultural expectations can take time for expats accustomed to more casual work environments. Adapting to these workplace customs while simultaneously managing their move’s legal and administrative requirements can leave expats feeling overwhelmed.

3. How Employer of Record (EOR) services simplify the process

An Employer of Record in Switzerland can greatly simplify the legal and administrative steps often associated with work permits and visas. Rather than setting up a local entity or managing every regulatory detail, an EOR acts as your local partner, ensuring the entire process— from initial visa sponsorship to contract compliance—meets Swiss labor standards. The EOR can help you with the following:

  • Comprehensive compliance expertise: EORs understand Swiss employment regulations at both federal and cantonal levels, helping to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Administrative relief: They handle HR tasks like onboarding, payroll, and tax filings, allowing you to focus on personal relocation efforts.
  • Risk mitigation: By ensuring employment contracts comply with Swiss law, EORs protect both employers and employees from fines or other legal issues.

For instance, consider Daniela, a financial analyst from Mexico who had secured a role at a Zurich-based firm. Despite her new employer’s enthusiasm, she found herself bogged down by Switzerland’s complex permit system. Unfamiliar with the cantonal requirements, she struggled to gather the correct documents and meet tight deadlines. Upon contacting an Employer of Record in Switzerland, she was guided step-by-step through the necessary paperwork. The EOR clarified local regulations, reviewed her contract to ensure compliance, and even arranged timely submission of her application. Within a short time, Daniela’s permit was approved, and she was able to start her new position without the stress of navigating the process alone.

With an EOR handling the heavy lifting, expats like Daniela can concentrate on adjusting to their new environment, and companies can rest assured they’re fully compliant with Swiss laws. By minimising the burden of administrative tasks, an EOR provides a seamless and efficient path to a successful move.

4. Your step-by-step guide to obtaining a work permit in Switzerland

Below is a roadmap for how to get a work visa in Switzerland, helping you move from job offer to residency:

  • Select the appropriate visa or permit type
    Determine the correct permit (e.g., B or L permit for employment, C permit for permanent residence) based on your role, duration of stay, and nationality. Non-EU/EFTA nationals generally need employer sponsorship, while EU/EFTA citizens have more streamlined options.
  • Prepare the necessary documentation
    Common requirements include a valid passport, proof of employment (e.g., a job contract), health insurance evidence, and professional qualifications. For certain permits, your employer may need to prove that no suitable local candidates were available before hiring you.
  • File the work authorization application
    Your employer usually initiates the process by applying for a work authorization through the local canton’s migration office. Once approved, you can apply for a visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Track your application’s progress
    Processing times can vary depending on the canton and your visa type. Keep an eye on any additional requests for documents or approvals, and maintain regular communication with your employer and local authorities.
  • Register upon arrival
    After arriving in Switzerland, register at the local Residents’ Registry Office (Einwohnerkontrolle) within 14 days. If you haven’t done so, you will also need to secure a Swiss health insurance policy. Sometimes, you may also register with your cantonal migration office to finalize your residency status.

For more detailed information, refer to the official website of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and the relevant cantonal migration authorities.

5. Making your transition smoother with professional support

For expats, understanding which documents are required and how to comply with Swiss labor laws can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where an Employer of Record (EOR) can make a significant difference.

An EOR specializes in handling the administrative burdens that come with obtaining a work permit or visa. Instead of you personally managing every step—such as gathering the right paperwork, interpreting government regulations, and ensuring compliance with cantonal requirements—the EOR takes on these responsibilities.

Their in-depth knowledge of Swiss labor and immigration laws means they can guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your application is both complete and accurate, which can reduce delays and the risk of rejections.

Moreover, an EOR’s established relationships with local authorities help smooth out the approval process. For example, they can ensure that your employment contract meets Swiss standards and contains the necessary details for the permit application. They will know exactly what’s required if additional documentation is needed and can help you secure it quickly. This streamlined approach saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on settling into your new environment rather than worrying about legal paperwork.

Conclusion: your next steps

Navigating work permits and visas in Switzerland may seem complex, but with a clear understanding of the options, careful preparation of documentation, and the right professional support, it becomes much more straightforward. By identifying the permit that best suits your qualifications and goals—such as the L, B, or C permit—and staying informed on cantonal quotas and requirements, you’ll be well-positioned for success.

Working with an Employer of Record in Switzerland or consulting with immigration experts can help you handle administrative tasks and stay fully compliant with local regulations.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward your Swiss career, contact us to learn how EOR services can streamline your visa application process and support you in embracing all that Switzerland has to offer—both professionally and personally.

Written by

Written by:

Hans | International Payroll Specialist

As a Swiss-German international payroll specialist based in Zurich, he helps foreign businesses navigate the complexities of Swiss payroll regulations. With extensive knowledge of both local and international payroll systems, he ensures smooth financial transitions for companies entering the Swiss market. Outside of work, he's an avid hiker who loves exploring the Swiss Alps, and he's also a dedicated urban gardener, tending to an impressive rooftop garden where he grows a variety of herbs and vegetables.

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