For third-country nationals there are 8 types of residence permits:

Holders of residence permits L, B and C receive biometric residence permits. The application procedure and issuance of a biometric residence permit are decided by the Canton of residence. Biometric data (two fingerprints, facial image and signature) are obtained from the applicant by the corresponding authority in the Canton of residence. Identification of the applicant is based on your passport. Residence permit fees cover the following: application processing, issuance of residence permit and capture of biometric data.

Note: If 95 CHF were already charged during LMA phase ("Einreiseentscheid"), this fee does not need to be paid again.

Applications have to be made at the cantonal immigration and labor market authorities. Procedures and application documents can differ between cantons.

Residence permits for EU/EFTA nationals

The residence permit for EU/EFTA nationals is valid for five years. This permit is issued to EU/EFTA citizens holding a contract of employment of at least twelve months or of unlimited duration.

The residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed for five years if the foreign national satisfies the requirements. First-time renewal of the permit can be limited to one year, however, if the holder has been involuntarily unemployed for more than twelve consecutive months. Nationals from all EU/EFTA member states without gainful employment are entitled to a B permit if they can prove they have sufficient financial means and adequate health and accident insurance.

Family members of Swiss nationals and those holding residence permits do not need to go through an additional permit process to become self-employed or take up employment. Family members of applicants holding a short-term permit do require a permit. Salary and employment conditions must correspond to those that are customary for the job and the region, and evidence must be presented of fulfilment of the personal requirements.