Becoming a Swiss citizen just got harder

From the beginning of this month, it’s even harder for expats to get Swiss citizenship.

Switzerland has been perennially popular as a home from home for millionaire UK financiers as well as Britons enjoying a generous pension and the lifestyle to match, but becoming a citizen of this pristine country is now more difficult than ever before. The previous requirements for those wishing to become Swiss citizens were anything but easy due to quirks and the high chance of denial, but the new rules now limit application to those already possessing C residence permits.

Most applicants go though the process of ‘regular naturalisation’, with the less complicated ‘facilitated naturalisation’ only possible for spouses and children of Swiss nationals and third-generation foreigners.The requirements of your commune, canton and the Swiss government must be met, starting with proof of residence for 10 years and continuing with proof of compliance with Swiss law and the posing of no threat to the state.

Being judged as ‘well integrated ‘ is essential, and involves the commune and canton’s opinions about how well you fit into Swiss social, linguistic and economic life as well as insisting you encourage your family to integrate as well. Another 2018 change forbids those who’ve been in receipt of benefits during the past three years from applying for citizenship unless the amount received is fully repaid.

The language test has become far more stringent and now includes a written test and demonstrative proof of A2 writing ability and B1 speaking skills. Getting on with the neighbours is essential as both cantons and communes interview applicants, quizzing them on everything from the area’s geography and public holidays to local festivals and traditions. After evaluating your response, a local committee votes on your application.

Applicants can expect several years or more of wondering whether they’ll ever become Swiss nationals, especially if they want or need to move to another area, meaning they’ll have to begin all over again. Worse still, the entire process can cost at least around 2,400 Swiss francs, with no refunds if you fail. Western Switzerland is he most generous as regards nationalisation, with Geneva also a reasonably good bet.