Who can apply — key requirements
Swiss naturalisation is a right, not a discretionary grant — if you meet all criteria, the canton must grant it. The process involves the municipality, the canton and the federal SEM.
10 years total legal residence
Years 8–18 in Switzerland count double (Art. 9 BüG). Time with a study permit counts for half.
MandatoryPermit C at time of application
Without permit C, naturalisation is not possible. Permit C itself requires 5 years (EU-15/EFTA) or 10 years (others) of continuous residence.
MandatoryLanguage B1 oral / A2 written
In the cantonal language (German, French, Italian or Romansh). Certificate from SEM-recognised institution.
MandatoryFinancial independence
No dependence on social assistance in the 3 years before application. No outstanding tax debts.
MandatoryIntegration
Respect for constitutional values, participation in social life, knowledge of Swiss institutions.
MandatoryClean criminal record
No serious criminal conviction. Minor offences assessed case-by-case.
MandatoryMunicipal, cantonal and federal — three levels
Eligibility pre-check
We verify residence years, permit C status, language level and integration criteria. We identify the most favourable canton if you have flexibility.
Language certificate
Obtain B1 oral / A2 written certificate from an SEM-recognised institution. Timeline: 1–3 months.
Municipal dossier
Application to the municipality of residence. Documents: certificate of residence history, language certificate, tax statements (3 years), criminal record extract.
Cantonal review
The canton verifies all criteria. Some cantons require an integration interview. Timeline: 2–6 months.
Federal SEM
SEM issues the federal naturalisation authorisation. Timeline: 2–4 months.
Citizenship ceremony
The municipality issues the certificate of citizenship. From application to passport: typically 12–24 months total.
Facilitated naturalisation — shorter timelines
Spouse of Swiss national
After 5 years of legal residence in Switzerland + 3 years of marriage. Facilitated procedure: no cantonal requirement for C permit.
Third-generation descendants
Grandchildren of immigrants who grew up in Switzerland. Simplified procedure, age limit applies.
Stateless persons
Residence requirements reduced to 5 years.
Fees
Orientation consultation
CHF 2501 hour • Deducted if mandate
- Eligibility check
- Required years and permit C status
- Canton selection and timeline
Full Service naturalisation
From CHF 4,500Complete dossier • Orientation fee deducted
- Eligibility assessment and canton selection
- Language and integration requirements check
- Complete municipal and cantonal dossier
- Federal SEM submission and follow-up
- Full assistance to citizenship certificate
Authority costs:
- Municipal fees: CHF 100–500 depending on canton
- Cantonal fees: CHF 100–800 depending on canton
- Federal SEM fee: CHF 100
- Criminal record certificate: CHF 20
- Language test: CHF 100–300
Frequently asked questions
Do I lose my current nationality?
Switzerland generally allows dual nationality. You do not need to renounce your original citizenship. Check your home country's rules — some countries do not allow dual citizenship.
Can I naturalise with permit B (without C)?
No. Permit C is a mandatory requirement at the time of application. You must first obtain C, then apply for naturalisation.
Do years with permit L count?
No. Only years with permit B or C count towards the 10 years. Years 8–18 count double; years with a study permit count for half.
Can I apply in any canton?
You must apply in the canton where you are currently registered. Some applicants with flexibility choose cantons with faster and more affordable procedures (e.g., Schaffhausen, Glarus).
What happens if the canton refuses?
A refusal must be reasoned and can be appealed before the cantonal administrative court, and ultimately before the Federal Supreme Court.