Non-EU/EFTA nationals who are not gainfully employed in Switzerland can obtain a Swiss residence permit if they agree to pay a minimum net annual tax. In general, a total tax liability of CHF 250,000 to CHF 1,000,000 is the minimum amount required by the cantons, although this amount varies according to individual circumstances and the canton of residence.

The application process in Switzerland can be broken down into several steps and may vary according to the canton of residence:

• Step 1: Applicants must first apply for a visa at the Swiss consulate in their country of residence
• Step 2: Upon arrival into Switzerland, applicants should rent or acquire real estate in the country
• Step 3: Applicants may then apply for a residence permit (‘B permit’) and must make a formal commitment not to engage in gainful activity Switzerland
• Step 4: A decision will usually be made in relation to the application within three to six months

Who is eligible to apply?

Persons wishing to pursue residence in this way must be non-Swiss nationals, taking up residence in Switzerland either for the first time or after a ten-year absence, and must not undertake gainful employment in Switzerland.

Which family members can I include in my application?

Note that B permit holders do not automatically have the right to family reunification in Switzerland. However, the migration authorities in the canton of residence may grant a residence permit to your spouse and unmarried children under 18, if you can prove that your place of residence is large enough to accommodate them and you have the resources to support them financially.

Is there a physical presence requirement?

Yes, B permit holders must generally not leave Switzerland for more than six consecutive months, otherwise the permit will be automatically cancelled.

How long does the application take to process?

From submission of an application for a residence permit, the average processing time is around three to six months.

What is the duration of the residence permit?

The B permit is generally valid for one year and is renewable on an annual basis, provided the applicant continues to meet the requirements for which it was issued. Applicants who renew their B permit annually will become eligible to apply for permanent residence after 10 years.

Is this option right for me?

The following persons may be a good fit for this option:

• High-net-worth individuals interested in pursuing an alluring lifestyle
• Persons who do not intend to carry out gainful employment in Switzerland
• Nuclear families seeking to obtain residence of a Schengen country