Federal Office for Migration

Biometric identity document for foreign nationals

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Since joining Schengen on 12 December 2008, Switzerland has been issuing a new credit card-sized identity document for foreign nationals. As part of the further development of the identity document, biometric data will be stored in a document commencing 2011. By introducing the biometric identity document, Switzerland is implementing a further development of Schengen law and at the same time reinforcing a global trend in enhancing document security using state-of-the-art technology to prevent fraudulent use. As before, the new biometric identity document indicates the foreigner’s status in Switzerland and together with a valid national passport entitles the holder to travel throughout the Schengen area without a visa.

A symbol on the upper left-hand side of the front of the card indicates that an invisible biometric data chip is inserted into the document. It contains two digital fingerprints and a facial image. The data are stored for five years and may only be used for issuing a new identity document. The biometric identity document for foreign nationals fulfils strict international requirements. The data are protected by a secure access control and an electronic key. The fingerprints are especially protected. The chip does not allow a person to be located or monitored.

Nationals of non European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Member States, or people from third countries who are not in Switzerland by virtue of the Free Movement of Persons Agreement are issued with the document. The permit categories remain unchanged:

Short-term residence permit (L)
Annual residence permit (B)
Permanent residence permit (C)

Nationals from EU and EFTA Member States and people in Switzerland under the Free Movement of Persons Agreement are not issued with the new identity document. Instead, they continue to be issued with the existing identity document (paper document in a plastic sleeve). Likewise, nothing changes for holders of a residence permit with employment (Ci), cross-border commuter permit (G), permit for asylum-seekers and permit for provisionally admitted aliens.

Existing non-biometric identity documents for foreign nationals remain valid until the date indicated on the document. The biometric identity document is only issued once the old document has expired or has to be reissued to amendments in the data. The application procedure and the issuance of a biometric identity document are determined by the canton of residence. The biometric data is registered by the competent authority in the canton of residence, and the identification of the applicant is based on his/her passport. The document is manufactured by a single company, and is handed out to the applicant by the usual means. Fees for the document comprise three parts: the application procedure, the manufacture of the document and the registration of the biometric data.