Visa / Residence and Work Permit

Trainees from EU / EFTA states

Simplyfied registration procedure for a stay of up to 90 working days: You do not need a residence and work permit for a stay of up to 90 working days. It is the responsibility of your employer to register you with the authorities. You also do not have to register at the local authorities after your arrival in Switzerland.

For a stay of more than 90 working days: You have to register with your employment contract at the local authorities within 14 days after your arrival in Switzerland. You will then receive the L permit (short term residence permit) for the duration of your stay.

Special regulation for citizens of Bulgaria, Romania, Japan, Singapore and Malaysia:

You need a residence and work permit for the duration of your internship and IAESTE will apply for your permit. After approval of the request you will receive the 'Zusicherung der Aufenthaltsbewilligung' (residence permit) from your employer. For a stay of up to 4 months this paper is your residence and work permit. For a longer stay you will receive the L permit (short term residence permit) after your registration at the local authorities, which you have to complete within 14 days after your arrival in Switzerland.

Trainees from Non-EU states

You need an entry visa to enter Switzerland and IAESTE Switzerland will apply for it. You will be informed as soon as your visa is ready to be picked up at a Swiss embassy in the country of your residence. Entering Switzerland for working purposes without a valid visa is not permitted and a visa can not be obtained in Switzerland. If you are staying for more than 4 months, you must register at the local authorities within 14 days after your arrival and you will receive the L permit (short term residence permit) for the duration of your stay. For a stay up to 4 months if specificly mentioned on your "Ermächtigung zur Visumserteilung"-document, you do not need to register.)

IMPORTANT: Please do not book a flight before checking with IAESTE Switzerland about the status of your visa! IAESTE Switzerland cannot be held responsible for any costs incurred due to delayed or not granted visa.

During your stay in Switzerland you may wish to travel to neighbouring countries. Switzerland is now a member of the Shengen agreement. The Swiss visa and L permit will enable you to travel to Schengen member countries without any hassle.