EU/EFTA citizens in Switzerland
Attention: Citizens from EU-8 The Federal Council decided on 18 April 2012 to invoke the safeguard clause provided for in the Agreement between Switzerland and the EU on the free movement of persons, applying it to the EU-8 Member States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, and Hungary). From 1 May 2012, category B residence permits granted to citizens of these countries will be subject to quotas. This measure is to remain in force for a year and applies to persons who come to live in Switzerland to become self-employed and to persons who possess an employment contract in Switzerland that is valid for a year or more. For further information go to: |
The introduction of the free movement of persons takes place gradually. Nationals of the founding EU member states (EU-17, including Malta and Cyprus), those of the EU-8 member states that joined the EU in 2004, and those of EFTA states enjoy unrestricted free movement rights. Transitional measures and therefore specific regulations are still applicable for Bulgaria and Romania (EU-2). The following document provides ample information on the current regulations.
- Übersicht über die Personenfreizügigkeit (39 Kb, pdf)(in German)
Go to the right hand side of this page for information on the various residence categories and points to consider if you are planning to move to Switzerland or click your country link:
The cantons are competent for issuing permits. For detailed information on the application procedure (where to apply, which form to fill out, how long it will take, etc.), please contact the competent cantonal authorities: