B Permit Switzerland — Complete Guide for Expats

The B permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung) is the standard Swiss residence permit for foreigners staying longer than one year. This complete expat guide explains eligibility, the application process, renewal, job changes, and how it compares with the C permit.

Step by step

1. 1

   Confirm whether you need a B permit

   Anyone staying in Switzerland for more than 12 months — for work, family reunification, or study — needs a residence permit. EU/EFTA citizens with a work contract of 12+ months automatically qualify for a B permit. Non-EU/EFTA citizens need an employer sponsor and are subject to annual federal quotas.

2. 2

   Secure a qualifying reason to stay

   The most common path is an employment contract. Non-EU candidates also need the employer to prove no Swiss or EU/EFTA candidate was available for the role. Other paths: family reunification with a permit holder, recognised studies, or self-employment under strict conditions.

3. 3

   Employer files with the canton and SEM

   For non-EU hires, the employer submits the application to the cantonal labour authority, which forwards it to the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) for federal approval. Processing typically takes 4–12 weeks.

4. 4

   Collect your entry visa if required

   After federal approval, non-EU citizens receive an entry visa from the Swiss embassy in their country of residence. EU/EFTA citizens skip this step and enter Switzerland directly.

5. 5

   Register at your Gemeinde within 14 days

   Within 14 days of arrival you must register (Anmeldung) at the local municipal residents' office. They will trigger issuance of the physical permit card.

6. 6

   Receive the biometric permit card

   The credit-card-sized biometric B permit arrives by post within 2–8 weeks of registration. EU/EFTA permits are valid 5 years; non-EU permits are typically valid 1 year and renewed annually.