C permit requirements 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.
Processing times in Geneva
Processing times published by the cantonal office (OCPM)
| Type of application | Indicative time |
|---|---|
| Early C permit | 12 months |
| Leave of absence for C permit holders | 6 weeks |
| 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
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.