Geneva · OCPM
C permit in Geneva
In Geneva, the OCPM sets the date from which the C permit can be issued (a date provided by the SEM) and invites the B permit holder to apply. The file includes proof of the required French language level and of the financial situation (no social assistance).
Early C permit: 12 months(time published by the OCPM)
Requirements by nationality
C permit for EU/EFTA nationals
The AFMP does not cover settlement: the C permit of EU/EFTA nationals falls under the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act and settlement agreements. Under these agreements and the reciprocity principle, nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the EFTA states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) get the C permit after five years of lawful, uninterrupted residence, if the conditions are met.
C permit for non-EU nationals
Third-country nationals can get the C permit after ten years in Switzerland, the last five uninterrupted on a B permit, if they meet the Act's integration criteria: respect for public safety and order, respect for the values of the Constitution, language skills, and taking part in working life or education. For settlement, the ordinance requires at least A2 spoken and A1 written in the national language spoken where the person lives.
C permit for UK nationals
UK nationals who arrived before 1 January 2021 keep the rights they acquired under the AFMP. Those arriving from 2021 are third-country nationals: the C permit is granted under the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act (ten years, or five years for early settlement with successful integration), as the UK is not on the list of countries whose nationals get the C permit after five years under a settlement agreement.
Work
A C permit holder can take any job, employed or self-employed, without a permit.
Family
The spouse and unmarried children under 18 of a C permit holder are entitled to a residence permit if they live in the same household and meet the Act's conditions (suitable housing, no reliance on social assistance, language); see family reunification.
Renewal
The right of residence is unlimited, but the residence card is renewed periodically by the canton. A long absence from Switzerland can cost the C permit; a leave of absence can be requested.
Procedure by canton
Frequently asked questions
After how many years do you get the C permit?
What French level is needed for the C permit?
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See also
Sources
Legal basis: FNIA art. 34 and 58a · 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.