An offer from a Swiss university is worth celebrating. Before you take your seat in the lecture hall, however, you need a residence permit. What this involves depends mainly on your nationality.
It All Starts with Your Place at University
No study place, no permit. The authorities therefore first want proof that your chosen institution has accepted you. You usually apply online, directly with the university.
EU and EFTA: A Right Based on Free Movement
For EU nationals, the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons applies, with comparable rules for the EFTA states. You are therefore entitled to a student residence permit if you are enrolled at a recognised institution, can support yourself and have comprehensive health insurance. As proof of funds, a statement from a bank licensed in Switzerland will do, for example, or a written promise from your parents to cover your living costs.
Non-EU Nationals: The Authorities Decide
People from third countries, by contrast, have no such right. The cantonal migration office decides, and it has wide latitude. Besides your admission, it checks your accommodation and finances and whether you meet the personal and academic requirements.
Everything must also be settled before you travel. If you need a visa, apply at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country of residence. If you are visa-exempt, submit your application to the cantonal migration office early. Either way, you may only enter once you hold the visa or the assurance of your permit.
After Arrival: One Year at a Time
All students must register where they live within 14 days of arriving. For students from third countries, the permit is then valid for one year at a time, with fresh proof of funds for each renewal. Overall, studies are generally capped at eight years, with exceptions only for a structured path up to a doctorate. Any change of subject or institution must be reported. A change of subject, however, is usually possible only once and for good reason. If you switch repeatedly or drop out, expect your permit not to be renewed.
Side Jobs: Allowed, Within Limits
Students from third countries may only work if they attend a university or university of applied sciences, and not until six months after their course starts. The employer files the application. During the semester, the limit is 15 hours a week, but it does not apply in the holidays. Your institution must also confirm that the job will not delay your degree. A new employer, too, needs the authorities’ green light. EU and EFTA students need neither a permit nor a waiting period. If they work more than 15 hours a week during the semester, however, they too need a permit as employees.
Conclusion: Plan Ahead
Besides a study place, you need a carefully prepared application. For third-country nationals especially, every detail counts, from proof of funds to accommodation. If anything is missing, your start may be delayed.
Planning to study in Switzerland or need to renew your permit? Lauke Immigration Services will review your documents and guide you all the way to your permit.
This post is for general information and does not replace advice on an individual case.
