The majestic snow-dusted Alps, scenic lakes and medieval architectural gems are among the many reasons why Indians seek Switzerland citizenship. Other advantages include a robust healthcare system, diverse cultural landscape and ample educational and professional opportunities.
These factors make Switzerland a top destination for Indians seeking permanent relocation. Read on to discover more about Swiss citizenship, including eligibility requirements, application process, documentation needed and more.
Who is eligible to get Switzerland citizenship?
Switzerland citizenship for Indians can be obtained via descent, naturalisation or marriage. Accordingly, Swiss citizenship requirements vary.
By descent
- One of the parents must be a Swiss citizen
- Sufficient general knowledge about Switzerland
- Capable of communicating in the local language
By naturalisation
- Hold a C permit for permanent residence
- Residence in Switzerland for at least 10 years
- During this time, annually, you must reside in the country for a minimum 183 days
- Of the 5 years leading up to the application, reside in Switzerland for a minimum 3 years
- No criminal history
- Respect Swiss culture, traditions, values, public order, etc.
- Fundamental knowledge of the country’s politics, history and customs
- Proficiency in at least one official language
- Pass written and oral tests if required
By marriage
- For a minimum of 3 years, you must be in a marital relationship with a Switzerland citizen
- Residence in the country for at least 5 years, including 1 year before application
- If living in India, must be married for 6 years to a Swiss citizen
- Ability to write in the national language at A2 level and speak it at B1 level
- Integration with local life and customs
- Must not have received welfare benefits for the past 3 years
By investment
Switzerland does not offer direct citizenship by investment. Applicants must first invest in a Swiss company (minimum CHF 1 million) or a real estate project (minimum CHF 5 million) to obtain a residence permit.
They must renew their permit over several years. After a decade, you can apply for permanent residency and eventually for Swiss citizenship through naturalisation.
Applicants must be between 18 and 55 years of age and have no criminal record.
Switzerland citizenship application process
The steps for Switzerland citizenship application depend on the type of eligibility you meet.
By descent
- Navigate to your specific commune (or canton’s) official site.
- Fill in relevant forms with essential details and declarations. Pay the mandated fee.
- Meet the obligations related to military service and pass the language test.
By naturalisation
- Visit your local canton’s website to obtain the specific application form.
- Submit the same after providing necessary details. Wait for approval at different levels: cantonal, municipal, as well as federal.
- If required, appear for an interview and showcase your contributions to the community and society.
By marriage
- Visit your local canton to secure the application form and find out about the documents required.
- Submit the same, appear for interviews if required.
Documents required to apply for Swiss citizenship
The list of documents might vary based on the route you take. You will typically need the following documents to apply for Switzerland citizenship:
- Present and previous passports
- Residence permits
- Language proficiency certificates (in at least one of the national languages)
- Community participation records (indicating your involvement in the activities of the local community)
- Proof of stable employment and income (bank statements, salary slips, tax returns, etc.)
- Police clearance certificate from India
- Proof of housing in Switzerland (property ownership papers or rental agreements)
Processing fee to apply for Swiss citizenship as Indians
The processing fee associated with applying for Switzerland citizenship for Indians varies based on the route taken. For instance, application by descent usually costs around CHF 600 for adults and is free for minors.
If applying through naturalisation, the fee depends on the commune or canton in question. Usually, per person, it ranges from CHF 500 to CHF 1000 for a commune. When it comes to a canton, the charge can be CHF 2000 at the most.
Application by marriage might cost around CHF 900.
Does Switzerland allow dual citizenship?
Yes, you can enjoy dual citizenship in Switzerland, as long as the other countries involved allow it. However, the Indian constitution doesn’t support dual citizenship. So, once you embrace Swiss citizenship, you must give up India’s.
Rejection of Swiss citizenship: Reasons and ways to avoid
Your Switzerland citizenship application might get rejected if you are not careful about the following:
- Problems with the application: Submitting incomplete application forms, providing wrong details, missing out on certain documents or supplying fake ones can lead to rejection.
- Unstable financial situation: Not having any stable source of income, employment or depending on welfare benefits can cause application rejection.
- Lack of language proficiency: If you are unable to prove your proficiency in one national language, your application might get rejected.
- Having criminal records: Past criminal convictions can reduce or eliminate your chances of getting an approval.
- Inadequate integration: Proper integration is one of the top Swiss citizenship requirements. If you are not actively involved with community activities or lack knowledge of Swiss culture, you might face rejection.
Conclusion
Remember that you must follow rules and guidelines closely for application approval. As a citizen, you can enjoy myriad benefits, such as smooth global movement, economic stability, safety and rich cultural experiences.
Even as a tourist, there’s much to do, such as, hiking, skiing, boating, exploring museums, sampling local dishes and more. Just spare a thought for unforeseen circumstances and get travel insurance online. With travel insurance for Switzerland, you will be financially covered in the event of a medical emergency, theft of documents or missed flight.
FAQs
- Is it easy for Indians to acquire Swiss citizenship?
It depends on whether you meet the eligibility requirements, whether you can supply the essential documents and if your application is correct and complete.
- For how long do I need to reside in Switzerland before applying for citizenship?
You must live legally in the country for a minimum of 10 years before submitting a Switzerland citizenship application.
- If I marry a Swiss citizen, will I automatically obtain Switzerland citizenship?
No, you need to fulfil certain criteria associated with duration of marriage and residence in the country and prove language proficiency. You must also satisfy specific criteria related to legal compliance, financial stability and cultural integration.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.