B permit requirements for EU/EFTA nationals
The permit is extended by five years as long as the conditions are still met. The first extension can be limited to one year if the person has been involuntarily unemployed for more than twelve consecutive months.
EU/EFTA nationals without paid work (retirees, people of independent means, students) get an EU/EFTA B permit for non-working people if they have sufficient financial means and health and accident insurance covering all risks.
Work
EU/EFTA B permit holders have occupational and geographical mobility. For third-country nationals, the permit is tied to the work the canton has authorised.
Processing times in Geneva
Processing times published by the cantonal office (OCPM)
| Type of application | Indicative time |
|---|---|
| First permit application with employment (EU national) | 6 to 8 weeks |
| Other permits without employment (EU national) | 3 months |
| Student permit application | 6 to 8 weeks |
| Family reunification application | 6 to 8 months |
| Renewal via expiry notice (or form K with no change of situation) | 3 months |
| Appointment for biometric data capture | 2 to 4 weeks |
Indicative times published by the OCPM, plus about 2 working days for incoming mail to be assigned. Source: OCPM — Average processing times of applications (published 21.09.2026) (in French).
Procedure by canton
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See also
Sources
- SEM — EU/EFTA B permit
- SEM — Non-EU/EFTA nationals
- SEM — United Kingdom
- Fedlex — Foreign Nationals and Integration Act (FNIA)
Legal basis: AFMP (RS 0.142.112.681) · FNIA (RS 142.20) · OASA (RS 142.201)
General information from the official sources cited. It does not replace the decision of the competent authority. Last checked: 16 October 2026.