Step-by-Step Process
Check Eligibility
- Must be a non-EU/EFTA national.
- Typically between 18 and 55 years old.
- Must have a clean criminal record and be in good health.
- Proof of a legitimate and verifiable source of income is required.
- You must own or lease accommodation in Switzerland.
Choose Your Investment Path
Two main routes:
1. Lump-Sum Taxation Scheme:
- Pay a predetermined flat annual tax to the canton of residence.
- Typically ranges between CHF 200,000 to CHF 600,000 annually, depending on the canton. Some sources cite between CHF 250,000 to CHF 1 million.
- Employment is not permitted under this scheme.
2. Swiss Business Investor Program:
- Must either establish a new Swiss company (creating jobs) or invest in an existing Swiss business.
- Minimum investment typically around CHF 1 million per year.
Prepare and Submit Your Application
Fill out the official application form, complete with required documents.
Gather and translate documents as required by the canton (likely into German, French, or Italian).
Required documents include:
- Valid non-EU passport
- Proof of investment and its lawful origin
- Health insurance
- Police certificates / criminal record checks
- Proof of family relationships (if dependents are included)
- Proof of property (lease or ownership) in Switzerland
Secure Approval & Make the Investment
Submit your application and wait for Swiss authorities’ due diligence review and approval.
Once approved, execute your chosen investment:
- Pay the lump-sum tax to the canton, or
- Invest/start a qualifying business in the canton.
Obtain a D-Visa and Relocate
After approval, apply for a D-type visa (long-term national visa) for yourself (and family, if applicable).
Relocate to Switzerland and convert your visa into a Residence Permit (e.g., B Permit) through canton immigration authorities.
Maintain Residency & Investment
Renew the temporary permit (B Permit) as required, usually annually.
Maintain either the lump-sum tax arrangement or business investment, and actual physical residency (often a minimum of 180 days per year).
Path to Permanent Residency & Citizenship
Permanent residency (C Permit): Typically after 10 years of continuous residence.
Citizenship (naturalization): After 10–12 years of residency, plus integration—such as language proficiency and cultural assimilation.
