B permit requirements for non-EU nationals
The employer has to show it could not recruit the staff it needs in Switzerland or in the EU/EFTA (priority for domestic workers). Pay, social contributions and working conditions must match local, professional and industry standards. Permits are subject to quotas set every year by the Federal Council.
For a stay of several years, integration criteria also count: professional and social adaptability, language skills and age.
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 (non-European national) | 6 to 8 weeks |
| Other permits without employment (non-European national) | 8 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.