The Dual System: EU/EFTA vs. Third Countries
Switzerland operates a dual system for admitting foreign workers:
- EU/EFTA citizens have straightforward access to the Swiss labour market thanks to the freedom of movement agreement.
- From all other countries, only executives, specialists and qualified workers are admitted on a limited basis.
This difference has significant implications for notification requirements, permit procedures, and duration of stay.
The 90-Day Notification Procedure for EU/EFTA Citizens
EU/EFTA workers can work in Switzerland for up to 90 effective working days per calendar year without needing a residence permit – provided the activity is registered via the notification procedure.
Who notifies? The employer must register the activity at least one working day before starting via EasyGov (the Swiss authorities' online portal).
Exceptions (notification from day 1): In certain sectors (construction, gardening, hospitality, cleaning, security, circuses/fairs, and certain service industries), notification is required from the very first day, regardless of duration.
Beyond 90 days: If the 90-day threshold is exceeded, a residence permit B (long-term) or L (temporary) is required.
Permit Types: L, B, G
| Permit Type | Duration | Target Group | Issued By |
|---|---|---|---|
| L (Temporary Residence Permit) | Up to approx. 1 year, renewable | Temporary stays and employment (e.g. projects, seconded staff) | Canton |
| B (Residence Permit) | 1 year+, renewable, often multi-year or indefinite | Long-term or permanent employment; for EU/EFTA also valid as work permit | Canton |
| G (Cross-border Worker Permit) | 1-5 years, renewable | People living abroad (usually <10 km away) who commute daily or weekly | Canton |
Important for EU/EFTA citizens: A residence permit L or B automatically serves as a work permit. Once the permit is issued, the person is authorised to work.
Requirements for Third-Country Nationals
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EFTA) are admitted only under strict conditions.
Qualification requirement: They must be well qualified – i.e. executives, specialists, or other qualified workers with a university or polytechnic degree plus several years of professional experience.
Employer evidence (labour market test): The employer must demonstrate that no suitable candidates are available on the domestic Swiss labour market or EU/EFTA labour markets.
Wages and working conditions: Wages, social security contributions, and working conditions must comply with standard local, occupational and sectoral norms in Switzerland.
Quotas: Third-country nationals are subject to annual quotas for permits, set by the Federal Government and distributed among the cantons.
Competent Authorities
The 26 Swiss cantons are the primary contact points for permit applications. Each canton has different named authorities (e.g. migration office, economic affairs office, labour market inspectorate) but follows federal guidelines from the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
Notification procedure (90 days): Via the EasyGov online portal or directly via the cantonal authorities.
Permit applications: In writing or electronically to the competent migration office of the canton where the work will be performed or where the person intends to reside.
FAQ
Can an EU citizen work 90 days in Switzerland without a permit?
Yes, but the employer must register the activity via the notification procedure. It is not "permit-free", but rather "subject to notification".
What happens if the 90-day threshold is exceeded?
A residence permit (L or B) is required. Working beyond this without a permit is a violation and risks fines, deportation, and future entry bans.
Can third-country nationals work without a university degree?
As a rule, no. The Swiss system is geared toward highly qualified specialists. Exceptions are possible but must be justified by the employer through evidence of relevant professional experience or demonstrated special expertise.
Who issues the permit?
The competent canton – based on where the work will be performed or where the person plans to reside.
Can I as a third-country national obtain a cross-border worker permit (G)?
Cross-border permits are subject to the same qualification requirements as L and B permits. The difference lies only in the commuter qualification (residence near the border, regular return).
The information provided on this website does not constitute legal advice and is not intended to address any legal issues or problems that may arise in individual cases. The information on this website is of a general nature and is provided for informational purposes only. If you need legal advice for your individual situation, you should seek the advice of a qualified attorney.