Since 2008, Switzerland has been a part of the Schengen Area – although it is notably not a member of the European Union.
According to Swiss immigration legislation, foreign citizens, including their immediate family members (spouse and minor children), may apply for a temporary residence permit in Switzerland through agreement concluded with the Tax administration of one of Swiss Cantons (for non EU-EFTA nationals): lump-sum taxation.
Some Cantons may grant residence permit to foreign nationals under an annual fixed tax regime, calculated on the basis of the total annual cost of living expenditure of the taxpayer.
This regime concerns the foreigner and his/her immediate family members (spouse and minor children), who do not carry out any business activity in Switzerland. The lump-sum taxation on the federal level is about of CHF 400,000 and the Cantonal tax rates vary with the Cantons.
In order to apply for a residence permit under the lump-sum taxation regime, the following documents must be submitted:
- Valid passport copy
- Proof of address
- Certificate of no criminal record
- Valid insurance policy in Switzerland
- Detailed CV
- Declaration stating that the applicant will not carry out any business activity in Switzerland
- Agreement concluded with Tax Administration
Moreover, the following documents shall be submitted for each of the applicant’s family members:
- Completed and signed questionnaire
- Legalized copy of marriage certificate or divorce certificate, if applicable
- Legal birth certificates for minor children
To obtain a positive decision, it is important that the applicant proves having significant capital and is active in the social, economic and cultural life of the country.
Time scale – Once all the documents have been submitted, the immigration authorities will make a decision within 5 months.
Unique features of a Swiss residence permit:
- Possibility to live in an economically stable environment
- Pleasant and prestigious lifestyle
- Possibility to obtain a residence permit for family members
