Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
At $106, the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA is the 7th-cheapest of the 62 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, below the $480 median. Its 2-month average processing time ranks it 16th-fastest, quicker than 75% of the others.
About the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA
The C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA is Switzerland's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence. A permanent settlement permit granted to EU/EFTA nationals after five years of regular and uninterrupted residence in Switzerland.
Applications are processed in 1–3 months on average. Government fees start at $106, and the visa is valid for 5 years.
The C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA is suited to work in tech, relocate with family.
Weighing Switzerland against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
Eligibility requirements
| Job offer required | No |
|---|---|
| Language test | Not required |
Official sources: C Permit (EU/EFTA) · sem.admin.ch
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
This visa is a direct permanent residence grant.
Validity period
5 years
How to apply for the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA
- 01
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 02
Submit your C Permit (EU/EFTA) application
File online through the official Switzerland immigration portal and pay the government fee of $106. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 03
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 04
Receive decision (1–3 months)
Standard processing takes 1–3 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA?
A permanent settlement permit granted to EU/EFTA nationals after five years of regular and uninterrupted residence in Switzerland.
How long does the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA take to process?
Processing time for the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA is typically 1–3 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Switzerland immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA cost?
The government application fee for the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA is $106 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA grants permanent residence directly on approval.
Do I need a job offer for the C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA?
No. The C Permit (Settled Foreign Nationals) for EU/EFTA does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.