Switzerland is among the happiest, healthiest, and wealthiest countries in the World. Life here is a hassle-free and spectacular landscape that will leave you stunned.

So, ready to take the big step and move to Switzerland? 

Well, no doubt it’ll be the best decision of yours. But the biggest concern of Americans moving to this Alps country is how to become a citizen of Switzerland.

Well, here’re the 4 ways to get Swiss citizenship:

• Swiss Citizenship by Descent
• Swiss Citizenship by Naturalization
• Swiss Citizenship by Marriage
• Switzerland Residency by Investment

Now, sit back and let us give a detailed overview of all ways. In the end, we will also guide you about how you can apply for the golden visa. So, keep on reading!

1. Switzerland Citizenship By Descent

Gaining citizenship in Switzerland through birth or descent unlike many other countries will require a true process.

To apply for citizenship through birth, the below are the criteria should be followed :

• Child of married parents, one of whom is Swiss.
• A child born to an unmarried Swiss mother.
• Child of an unmarried Swiss father, when the paternity is acknowledged before the age of 22.
• Child of a parent who lost their Swiss citizenship but shows close relation with Switzerland.

It is worth mentioning that the application process can take up to 12 months.

Swiss Citizenship By Descent Requirements

To start with, you must have a sane knowledge of the local language and Swiss culture. Though having at least one Swiss parent is enough, here are the additional requirements:

• Applicants must respect Swiss values.
• Must not be involved in any severe criminal activity.
• Must pay the CHF 600 process fee.
• Applicants need to provide all necessary tests and must present the essential document to prove the origin of birth.
• Children under 18 can apply for free.

Keep in mind that if the applicant is the heir of a Swiss dad who is not married, then the fee applied will be 350 CHF. 

2. Switzerland’s Citizenship By Naturalization

To apply for regular naturalization, the following are the requirements to meet to apply for your citizenship :

• Staying with a B or C permit.
• Staying with a Ci permit.
• Staying with an F permit.
• Minimum knowledge of the national language.
• Familiarization with Swiss customs and traditions.
• Must have lived in the country for at least 10 years.
• Must spend a minimum of 183 days in the country for the last 5 years.

Once the application is submitted, it will undergo three basic levels involving cantonal, communal, and federal authorities before getting Swiss citizenship.

The process is quite lengthy and might take at least three years before reviewing the citizenship.

Switzerland Citizenship By Naturalization Required Documents

The application must be filed through your local canton. Here’s the list of required documents you need to provide.

• An application form.
• Rental contracts and utility bills as proof of residency.
• Identification documents such as passport or ID card.
• Educational documents, Employment contracts, and other community service documents.

During the approval process, you’ll be interviewed by the authorities several times. So, be prepared to show your language and community knowledge.

3. Switzerland Citizenship By Marriage

If you are waiting to apply for your citizenship after your marriage to a Swiss citizen, then you’re eligible to apply under the simplified naturalization process. 

• If you live in Switzerland, you can get the application form by directly emailing the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) at ch@sem.admin.ch, with your postal address to be sent to you by post. 
• Once completed with the details to be provided in the form, submit it to the SEM by post.

Keep in mind that both you and your spouse must not have taken any social welfare benefits within the past three years unless you have given back the taken amount. 

Switzerland Citizenship By Marriage Requirements

Below are the requirements for gaining citizenship through marriage in Switzerland:

•  Should be married for at least three years.
• The husband or wife of the Swiss citizen must live a total of 5 years, including 12 months prior to submitting your application.
• B1 level and written to A2 level knowledge of the Swiss National Language.
• Must not prove any danger to Switzerland’s internal and external security.

4. Switzerland Citizenship By Investment

Though it’s not a direct route for seeking citizenship, Switzerland does offer citizenship by investment.

This is a special opportunity for business investors to expand their business. It comes with benefits including:

• Ability to travel freely within the Schengen area.
• Access to Swiss Healthcare and educational system.

There are also a few requirements that you must fulfill. Here’re the three main requirements:

• Must invest a minimum of CHF 1 million in any Swiss company or CHF 5 million in any real estate project.
• Our investment must be valuable and create jobs for the Swiss economy.

Switzerland Citizenship By Investment Requirements

Apart from the investment, you’ll need to provide the following documentation:

• Your valid passport.
• Proof of investment or relevant documentation.
• Certificate of good conduct issued by your home country
• Evidence of financial stability with the proper bank statement and proof of income.
• Valid health insurance.
• Must be at least 18 or a maximum of 55.

For Switzerland citizenship by investment, you must have all the relevant documentation and financial stability.

The process can be 5 months long and interchangeably used as the Golden visa. 

Swiss Citizenship FAQs

Wrapping It Up!

Prepare the requirements and documents with your application form and the information on the canton authority you are planning to submit. 

This is a lengthy process and also may take some years to receive your citizenship.

Switzerland’s citizenship might be difficult to obtain as it is ranked fourth in the world for its passport power index.