In Switzerland, is it possible to deny a residence permit to EU citizens?
=========================================================================================
Switzerland, a country known for its pristine landscapes and robust economy, has seen a significant population growth in recent years, primarily due to immigration. One of the main contributors to this growth is the influx of EU and EFTA citizens.
However, beyond the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons, EU/EFTA citizens seeking to obtain and maintain a residence permit in Switzerland must fulfill several specific requirements depending on their situation.
For a standard residence permit ("B" permit), EU/EFTA nationals generally need a confirmed work contract lasting 12 months or more. It is also possible to get a permit if they can prove financial self-sufficiency, even without employment.
EU/EFTA nationals who are not gainfully employed must demonstrate sufficient financial resources that exceed Swiss social welfare guideline values (per SKOS guidelines), and carry comprehensive health insurance coverage. This is needed to take up residence and have the permit issued or renewed.
Initial residence permits for employed EU/EFTA nationals are usually valid for up to 5 years. For non-employed persons meeting the resource and insurance criteria, permits are also generally valid for 5 years and may be extended automatically if conditions remain fulfilled.
To apply for permanent residency ("C" permit), EU/EFTA citizens must have lived in Switzerland uninterruptedly for 5 years on a residence permit.
EU/EFTA nationals may enter Switzerland and reside for up to 3 months within 6 months without prior authorization, but they need to apply for residence permits if staying longer.
It's important to note that different cantons may apply specific procedures, especially for non-employed residents. Family members of EU/EFTA citizens may also have rights to residence permits, but additional rules apply for non-EU family members, often requiring registration with local authorities.
While the free movement agreement facilitates access, the residence of non-employed EU/EFTA citizens depends on proving financial independence and health insurance, which go beyond simple treaty rights.
In summary, beyond Free Movement of Persons provisions, residence in Switzerland for EU/EFTA citizens requires either employment or proof of sufficient financial resources and health insurance, plus compliance with permit durations and application procedures to obtain and maintain residence status.
[1] Swiss Federal Office for Migration (BFM). (2021). Residence permits for EU/EFTA citizens. [online] Available at: https://www.bfm.admin.ch/bfm/en/home/themen/a-z/a-z-liste/e/eu-efta-buerger.html
[2] European Commission. (2020). Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons with Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12472-Free-Movement-of-Persons-with-Switzerland
[3] Swiss Federal Office for Migration (BFM). (2021). Entry, residence and work in Switzerland. [online] Available at: https://www.bfm.admin.ch/bfm/en/home/themen/a-z/a-z-liste/e/eu-efta-buerger/aufenthalt-arbeit.html
[4] Swiss Federal Office for Migration (BFM). (2021). Family members of EU/EFTA citizens. [online] Available at: https://www.bfm.admin.ch/bfm/en/home/themen/a-z/a-z-liste/e/eu-efta-buerger/familienmitglieder.html
- In Switzerland, a country known for its education and self-development opportunities, gaining and maintaining a residence permit requires fulfilling certain specific requirements for EU/EFTA citizens, as detailed by the Swiss Federal Office for Migration (BFM).
- General news outlets often report on the latest updates regarding the free movement of EU/EFTA citizens to Switzerland, highlighting the agreement's provisions and the additional requirements needed for non-employed individuals, such as proof of financial independence and health insurance coverage.
