Permit for non-EU nationals

A more complex and contingent procedure. Our expertise makes the difference in securing your authorization.

Nationals from countries outside the EU/EFTA (known as “third countries”) are subject to stricter conditions to work in Switzerland. Their employer must prove the priority of local labor, and permits are allocated within the limits of cantonal and federal quotas set each year.

The process involves several steps and can take 2 to 3 months. The employer plays a central role in the request, because it is he who must justify the recruitment and submit the file. Our support guarantees an impeccable file and maximizes the chances of approval.

What's Included

Eligibility analysis and feasibility study of the permit
Advice to employers on legal obligations and the priority file
Complete preparation of the employer and candidate file
Verification of salary compliance and working conditions
Submission of the cantonal request and follow-up with the SEM
Coordination for obtaining the D visa if necessary

Steps and Timeline

Feasibility analysis

We assess whether the conditions are met: qualification of the candidate, availability of contingents, justification for international recruitment.

Priority file

The employer must document its local recruitment efforts (ORP announcement, applications received). We are helping him to put together this key file.

Cantonal request

The complete file is submitted to the cantonal labor service. It includes the contract, diplomas, priority file and official forms.

Federal validation

The canton sends the file to the SEM for final approval. This step may take an additional 4-6 weeks.

Visa and arrival

Once authorization has been obtained, we coordinate the D visa application with the Swiss representation in the country of origin, then the arrival formalities.

Common Mistakes

Underestimating the Proof of Local Labor Priority Procedure
Entering Switzerland on a tourist visa hoping to convert it into a work permit
Not checking the availability of contingents before launching the procedure
Present a salary lower than local and sectoral conditions
Forgetting to legalize or apostilize foreign diplomas
Do not anticipate the total deadline (often 8 to 12 weeks)

Related Services

Service EU/EFTA Work Permit in Switzerland Service Family Reunification in Switzerland Service Permit Renewal and Canton Change

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a work permit quota?

Each year, the Federal Council sets a maximum number of B and L permits for non-EU nationals. This quota is distributed between the cantons. Once the cantonal quota has been exhausted, no new permit can be issued before the following year, except in exceptional cases.

Does my employer have to justify my recruitment?

Yes, this is the principle of priority for indigenous labor. The employer must demonstrate that no Swiss candidate, permanent resident or EU/EFTA citizen was suitable for the position. He must keep research evidence (ORP announcement, applications, interviews).

Can I change employer with a B license outside the EU?

Yes, but this requires a new authorization. Your new employer must file a change of employment request with the canton. The priority procedure applies again, and the contingent is called upon. We advise you not to resign before receiving the new authorization.

Can my family join me in Switzerland?

Yes, family reunification is possible for the spouse and children under 18 years old. The application can be made simultaneously or after obtaining your permit. Your spouse will receive a permit allowing them to work in Switzerland without restriction.

Are there any exceptions to the quota system?

Certain profiles are exempt or facilitated: intra-company transfers (ICT permit), researchers, artists for short engagements, senior executives of multinationals. Conditions vary depending on the situation and the canton concerned.

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