Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places to consider moving to. Many UK nationals have shifted to the gorgeous country in the past decade, and many are moving to Switzerland soon. Like most nations that have had historical influences from other regions, Switzerland has parts that are Italian, some German, and others French in culture.
While there are several reasons why you should move to Switzerland, the foremost is that it is a gorgeous country! You should try a visitor visa, go and see the country, interact with the local people, conduct a job search, and see how you can further your career prospects. While it may be possible to shift to Switzerland quite quickly, you should consider a few things before moving.
Switzerland is currently attempting to limit the non-EU/EFTA migrant applications it receives for residency permits each year. There are strict limitations on the work and residence permits for the UK and other countries (especially after Brexit). UK citizens will first have to apply for a long stay permit or visa, get into Switzerland and only then apply for a residency permit.
When you’re thinking about moving to Switzerland from the UK, you will have to do any two of these three things:
- Apply for a family, study, or work visa
- Get the temporary residency permit, OR,
- Get a Swiss Permanent Residency Permit (C residency – permanent residency)
Related Read: Chateau de Promenthoux: Lake Geneva Most Exclusive & Expensive Property
Apply for a Long Stay Visa
Most people shift to Switzerland for studies, work, or being with a spouse or family member. Before you shift for the first time, it is necessary to visit the country and see if you like it. Switzerland is a fabulous tourist destination spot, and you may stay in fancy hotels, eat great food, and see new places. But you must look at the area you want to buy or rent a house in, which schools are great (if you’re shifting with family), and more. You should also check the tax slabs and structures, the job or business market, and how well you and your family will fit.
If you are shifting for study, work, or to be with a family member, you will need the appropriate visa before moving.
- Switzerland Work Visa: This visa is excellent for people wishing to take up permanent full-time work in Switzerland. They will need valid work contracts before applying for the visa.
- Switzerland Student Visa: Graduate and PostGraduate international students need this visa to get admitted to a Swiss College or University. Students need to have an enrolment certificate before applying for a student visa.
- Switzerland Family Reunion Visa: Foreign nationals moving to Switzerland to be with family members like parents or spouse need this visa. The parent or spouse needs to be a Swiss permanent resident or national.
While applying for the visas, it is necessary to check all documentation, paperwork, and conditions.
What Are The Types Of Residency Permits?
Residency permits in Switzerland vary according to needs and requirements.
- L Permit: This is a short-term residency permit with a validity of one year only. It cannot be renewed.
- B Permit: Like the L permit, this visa is also valid only for one year. But unlike the L permit, this one can be renewed if needed.
- C Permit: Switzerland’s most coveted permanent residency is the C permit. It is available to UK nationals only after 10 years of continuous living, paying taxes, and being an active contributor to Swiss society. After being a permanent resident with a C permit, UK nationals can also apply for citizenship. With citizenship, you can vote, be in the military, and benefit from other government schemes.
There are other residency permits that are meant for asylum seekers, cross-border workers, and refugees.
Living in Switzerland
The best part about Switzerland (apart from the natural beauty and the food) is that it does not have only one national language. Bilingual UK nationals who speak either French, Italian, German or Romansh can fit comfortably with the locals.
The Swiss people are pretty inclusive and welcoming, and they are mostly neutral on societal issues. They are, however, quite judgmental about posers and people who like to show off. The Swiss people are inherently polite and do not enjoy communicating with brash or impolite people.
Most of the work-life in Switzerland is formal, and most businesses have a standard dress code and manner of working. Swiss nationals also prefer keeping a healthy work-life balance and believe in shutting shop at the right time.
