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Switzerland · Work visa

B Permit - Third-Country National Work Permit

Processing
6-14 weeks
Cost
From CHF 188
Validity
1 year

The standard long-term residence-and-work permit for non-EU/EFTA nationals. Subject to a strict federal quota and granted only to managers, specialists and other highly qualified professionals.

Requirements

  • University degree or equivalent, plus relevant professional experience
  • Swiss employer proves no suitable Swiss or EU/EFTA candidate was found (priority-of-recruitment / labor market test)
  • Salary and conditions meet local and sector norms (typically CHF 85,000-150,000+ depending on canton and role)
  • Availability within the annual federal quota (4,500 B permits for third-country nationals in 2026)
  • Cantonal and State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) approval

Time and cost

Processing time
6-14 weeks including canton review, SEM approval and visa
Validity
1 year, renewable annually while employed
Cost

From CHF 188

Required

  • CHF 100 to CHF 160 cantonal permit fee
  • CHF 88 D-visa
Path to residency
C settlement permit typically after 10 years (5 years for nationals of certain countries with special agreements)

Documents

  • Valid passport

    Valid for the duration of the permit

  • Employment contract

    Signed, stating salary, role and duration

  • University degree and CV

    Diplomas plus detailed professional history

  • Employer justification

    Evidence of recruitment efforts proving no Swiss/EU candidate available

  • Passport photos

    Recent biometric photographs

Tips

  • The employer files the application; the candidate cannot apply alone
  • Quotas are released quarterly and can run out; apply early in the year
  • Permit is tied to the canton of issue; moving cantons needs authorization