Naturalisation by residence in Switzerland (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Ordinary naturalisation requires 10 years of residence and a C permit, with years between ages 8 and 18 counting double (at least six real years). Language skills of B1 oral and A2 written are required, and dual nationality is allowed.

RuleWhat applies
Years of residence requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence10 years [1]
Shortened residence periodsOrdinary naturalisation by residenceYears lived in Switzerland between the 8th and 18th birthday count double, but actual residence must be at least six years. Time on a B or C permit counts; time on an F permit counts at half; asylum-procedure (N) and short-stay (L) time does not. [1]
Language level requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residenceB1 (CEFR) [2]
Integration or civic knowledge testOrdinary naturalisation by residence⚠ Not yet verified
Giving up previous nationalityOrdinary naturalisation by residenceNot required [3]

Notes

  • The federal minimum is B1 for spoken and A2 for written language. Cantons may add integration criteria.
  • Federal rules require basic knowledge of Switzerland, but procedures and any tests are set by cantons and communes.

Sources

  1. Staatssekretariat für Migration SEM: Die Ordentliche Einbürgerung (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Staatssekretariat für Migration SEM: FAQ – Schweizer Bürgerrecht (Gesuchseinreichung ab 1.1.2018) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  3. Staatssekretariat für Migration SEM: Doppelbürger (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.