Fees for Swiss work permits are set by both federal and cantonal governments, but the exact amount is determined primarly by the cantonal migration authorities.
On the federal level, the amounts are defined by the regulation on fees related to the Foreigners and Integration Act.
They vary from 20 to 95 francs, depending on the applicant’s nationality and type of permit.
However, as is the case for all rules and regulations in Switzerland, cantons can charge higher fees for work permits – and they do.
Two factors at play
Cantons determine the cost based on two factors: the type of permit and the applicant’s nationality.
In all cases, those covered by the Agreement on the Free Movement of People – that is, citizens of the European Union and EFTA (Norway, Iceland, and Lichtenstein) – pay less than their counterparts from third countries.
Specific examples:
Zurich
Non-EU/EFTA:
The costs are tiered and increase depending on the duration of employment.
Short-term residence permit costs 120 francs, plus a 30-franc surcharge per person.
Long-term residence permit: up to 550 francs.
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Geneva
Non-EU/EFTA:
Employer Fees: The Canton of Geneva charges the employer 50 francs per application for processing.
Residence Permit (after arrival in Geneva): expect fees of about 250 for the initial residence B or L permit.
EU/EFTA citizens:
Between 60 and 200 francs
Vaud
Here, costs may vary slightly from one district to another.
Non-EU/EFTA :
Between 100 and 200 francs
EU/EFTA:
65 francs
Keep in mind, however, that these are indicative fees; the actual cost may be different based on individual circumstances, so check with the migration authorities in your canton.
(There are no fees for N and S permits, which are granted to refugees and asylum seekers).
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Who pays for the permits: the employer or employee?
That depends.
Typically, the company that hired a foreign worker pays for the work permit; at other times, employers cover fees as part of the initial hiring package, while the employee pays renewal fees (read more about this below).
For non-EU/EFTA nationals, the employer sponsors the permit and also covers its cost.
What about the price of permit renewal?
Depending on the kind of permit you have, it may have to be renewed each year or only after five years of residency.
You will receive a letter from local authorities approximately six weeks before the deadline reminding you to renew. There will also be an application form that you will need to fill out.
Typically, the maximum fee for EU/EFTA nationals and workers who are posted by a company based in an EU/EFTA country is 65 francs for all residency categories.
Costs vary, however, for third-country permit renewals.
READ MORE: How much does it cost to renew your residency permit in Switzerland?
