Switzerland L Permit: 12 Months Temporary Work Visa for Non-EU/EFTA Citizens

The Switzerland L Permit is one of my favourite types of Visa. Switzerland is a popular destination for both tourists and business people alike, with its beautiful scenery and high quality of life. For those who wish to work in Switzerland on a temporary basis, the country offers a Short-term work visa, also known as the L permit. This permit allows non-EU/EFTA citizens to work in Switzerland for up to 12 months, making it a popular option for those who wish to gain work experience in Switzerland or who have a short-term job offer.

In this article, we will discuss the requirements, application process, and restrictions associated with the L permit in Switzerland.

Eligibility for the L Permit

To be eligible for the L permit, you must be a non-EU/EFTA citizen and have a job offer from a Swiss employer. The job offer must be for a period of no longer than 12 months and the salary must be in line with Swiss standards for the specific job. Additionally, your employer must obtain a work permit for you from the immigration authorities before you can apply for the L permit.

You must also have a valid passport, and be able to prove that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Switzerland. The Swiss authorities will require you to provide evidence of your financial resources, such as bank statements or proof of income.

Application Process

To apply for the L permit, you must first obtain a work permit from the immigration authorities. Your employer will be responsible for submitting the work permit application on your behalf, and the application process can take several weeks to several months to complete.

Once your employer has obtained the work permit, you can then apply for the L permit at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to submit a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of financial means, a copy of your work permit, and a recent passport photo.

The processing time for the L permit application can vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but it generally takes around two to four weeks. Once your application has been approved, you will receive your L permit and can travel to Switzerland to start your job.

Restrictions on the L Permit

The L permit is valid for a maximum of 12 months and cannot be renewed. If you wish to continue working in Switzerland after your L permit has expired, you must apply for a different type of work permit or a long-term residence permit.

Additionally, while you are on the L permit, you are not allowed to bring your family with you to Switzerland. If you wish to bring your spouse or children with you, you must apply for a separate visa or permit.

Furthermore, the L permit does not allow you to change jobs while you are in Switzerland. If you wish to work for a different employer, you must apply for a new work permit and an L permit.

Conclusion

The permit is a great option for non-EU/EFTA citizens who wish to work in Switzerland on a temporary basis. However, it is important to note that the permit is only valid for a maximum of 12 months and cannot be renewed. If you wish to continue working in Switzerland after your L permit has expired, you must apply for a different type of work permit or a long-term residence permit.

The application process for the L permit can take several weeks to several months, so it is important to plan ahead and ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information. Additionally, while on the L permit, you are not allowed to bring your family with you to Switzerland and cannot change jobs.

I think this is a great path to toe if you are looking for a change of scenery, new excitement and wanting to experience another culture and way of life for a year then this is the perfect chance to do that. The L permit will give you a chance at a new experience, new professional, and international experience, you get to meet new people, try new cuisines, and experience a new work environment. The list is actually endless as to all you will get a chance to experience. 

People make jokes all the time about feeling the need to change their lives for a bit and here is an opportunity to try that. 

Overall, the L permit is a great option for those who wish to gain work experience in Switzerland or who have a short-term job offer. With its beautiful scenery and high quality of life, Switzerland is a great place to live and work, and the permit makes it easier for non -EU/EFTA citizens to do so. However, it is important to carefully consider the restrictions and limitations of the permit before applying and to explore other options if you plan to stay in Switzerland for longer than 12 months or wish to bring your family with you.