If you are an EU/EFTA citizen with a written Swiss job offer, the first question is not “which visa?”. It is: how long is the contract, and where will you actually live?

This is general educational information, not legal, immigration, tax or financial advice. Cantons issue permits. Always verify on the official page before you act.

The four employment paths (EU/EFTA)

1. Work of up to 3 months

You generally do not need a residence permit. The employer must complete the online notification no later than the day before work starts.

Source: SEM — notification procedure — last modified 01.04.2026.

2. You will live in Switzerland, contract 3 months–1 year (up to 364 days)

That is typically permit L. Validity follows the contract.

3. You will live in Switzerland, contract ≥ 12 months or unlimited

That is typically permit B (generally 5 years, renewable). After more than 12 consecutive months of involuntary unemployment, the first renewal can be limited to one year.

4. You live in an EU/EFTA state and return home daily or at least weekly

That is typically permit G. There are no border zones for EU/EFTA G permits. If the contract is over 1 year or permanent, G is generally issued for 5 years.

Sources: SEM — living and working in Switzerland (EU/EFTA) — last modified 13.01.2026; G permit — last modified 01.01.2022.

The 14-day rule

If you take up residence, register at the commune within 14 days of arrival and before starting work, with ID and written employment confirmation.

What this does not mean

• The UK is outside the AFMP since 1 January 2021.

• Liechtenstein has special rules. Croatia: confirm the current SEM list (included as of 13.01.2026; there is safeguard-clause history).

• Nobody can sell you a guaranteed B permit. SEM and your canton are the source of truth: ch.ch, arbeit.swiss.

Last reviewed: 7 September 2026. Re-check SEM and your canton before you resign at home.