Since Brexit, British citizens are considered third-country nationals when they seek to live and work in Switzerland. This guide explains the rules for perm...
Since Brexit, British nationals are no longer treated the same as EU nationals when they wish to live and work in Switzerland. This has profoundly changed the legal framework governing access to the Swiss labor market and the issuance of residence permits.
Whether you're planning to work as an employee or start your own business, understanding the applicable rules is essential to ensuring the success of your venture.
Yes, but under stricter conditions.
British nationals are now considered third-country nationals under Swiss immigration law. This means that:
• Access to the labor market is restricted and subject to quotas
• The employer must demonstrate that no suitable candidate could be found in Switzerland or in the EU/EFTA
• Work and residence permits require prior approval from the cantonal authorities
Requirements for British Nationals
To be employed in Switzerland, British nationals must generally meet the following criteria:
• Hold a skilled position (executive, specialized, or highly skilled role)
• Have a firm job offer from a Swiss employer
• Demonstrate relevant professional experience and/or academic qualifications
In addition, the employer must:
• Justify the hiring of a non-EU national
• Comply with Swiss wage and working conditions
• File an application for a work permit with the appropriate authorities
Types of Authorizations Available
British employees are entitled to:
• L Permit — short-term stay (up to 12 months)
• B Permit — residence permit (generally 1 year, renewable)
The type of authorization depends on the duration of the employment contract and the specific circumstances of each case.
For British nationals, settling in Switzerland as an entrepreneur is possible, but subject to strict conditions.
Key Requirements
The authorities will review whether your project:
• Has a positive economic impact on Switzerland
• Is financially viable and sustainable
• Creates jobs or contributes to the local economy
• Is based on a credible business plan
Unlike EU nationals, British nationals do not have automatic access to self-employment in Switzerland.
Practical Considerations
To maximize the chances of acceptance, it is essential to:
• Prepare a solid business plan
• Structure your business appropriately (e.g., by forming a company)
• Demonstrate sufficient financial resources
• Anticipate tax and residency implications
Quotas and Strategic Planning
Swiss authorities apply annual quotas for permits granted to third-country nationals, including British nationals.
Therefore:
• Applications are evaluated on a competitive basis
• Timing and strategy are crucial
• Incomplete or poorly structured applications are often rejected
Family Reunification
Once authorization has been granted, British nationals may apply for family reunification, subject to the following conditions:
• Adequate housing
• Sufficient financial resources
• Compliance with integration requirements
Long-term residence and naturalization
Over time, British nationals may become eligible for:
• C Permit (permanent residence)
• Swiss naturalization, subject to length of residence and integration criteria
Given the complexity of the legal framework applicable to British nationals since Brexit, professional guidance is often crucial.
A structured legal approach allows you to:
• Identify the most appropriate relocation strategy
• Anticipate administrative requirements
• Maximize your chances of approval
• Secure your long-term stay in Switzerland
We assist British nationals with all aspects of their relocation to Switzerland, including:
• Applications for work and residence permits
• Entrepreneurial projects and starting a business
• Family reunification
• Renewal of permits and changes in status
Our approach is personalized, strategic, and aligned with the expectations of the Swiss authorities.
