Switzerland

Citizenship by Investment Overview

Investment

Minimum annual taxes of CHF 250,000, dependent on the applicant and the canton of residence

Key Benefit

The right to live and study in Switzerland

Acquire a Swiss Residence Permit with Residence by Investment

There are different types of residence categories in Switzerland, and a distinction is made between EU or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizens and non-EU or non-EFTA nationals. EU or EFTA nationals can obtain a residence permit without difficulty if they have an employment agreement with a Swiss employer, if they become self-employed in Switzerland, or, if no gainful occupation in Switzerland is intended, they can prove that they are financially independent with sufficient income or wealth to cover their living costs.

The process for obtaining residence for non-EU or non-EFTA nationals is more challenging but still possible. On the basis of current Swiss immigration and tax laws and regulations, Henley & Partners designed the Swiss Residence Program.

Some of the Many Advantages of Switzerland Residence by Investment

- Political, social, and economic stability
- Multilingual, highly qualified, and motivated workforce
- First-class infrastructure, excellent banking facilities
- Highly attractive lifestyle and healthy environment
- Home to some of the most exclusive schools in the world
- Efficient and reliable public services
- Possible fiscal incentives for substantial investments

An Excellent Business Environment

Many of the world’s major companies have chosen Switzerland as the location for their global, European, or regional headquarters, their international finance companies, or research and development facilities. Some examples include Amgen (European headquarters) in Lucerne, Kuehne + Nagel (international holding) in Schwyz, Philip Morris (European headquarters) in Vaud, Compaq Computers (European headquarters) in Zurich, and the IBM research laboratory in Zurich.

Switzerland is keen to attract not only large corporations but also small- and medium-sized enterprises and private entrepreneurs. Switzerland is business-friendly by tradition and offers a solution for every need and expectation. Switzerland’s 26 cantons offer companies a wide range of opportunities. The advantages associated with Switzerland are complemented 26 times over by other advantages that are specific to each of these locations

First-Rate Infrastructure

Switzerland is often perceived as a very expensive country and accessible only to wealthy individuals and large companies. However, the overall cost of living and doing business in Switzerland compares very favorably with Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the USA. State-of-the-art transport, communications, energy supplies, and waste disposal systems cost no more in Switzerland than the price paid elsewhere for traffic congestion and environmental degradation.

Company Types in Switzerland

When establishing a new business or subsidiary in Switzerland, you may opt for a branch office or a separate legal entity in the form of either a limited liability company or a stock corporation.

Swiss Banking and Insurance

Banking and insurance are the foundation of Switzerland’s financial system, which is arguably the most solid in the world. Swiss banks and insurance companies are extremely safe, as the entire Swiss financial industry is tightly regulated. Swiss banks and insurance companies are unique in that they provide sophisticated services to businesses as well as discerning investors by offering financial privacy, and through their solid reputation, safety, and worldwide presence.

Switzerland Residence by Investment Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Swiss Residence Program?

The Switzerland residence by investment program, known as the Swiss Residence Program, offers residence to individuals and their families through substantial economic contributions to the country.
What are the investment options available for the Swiss Residence Program?

The main applicant must be over 18, cannot be employed in Switzerland but can manage global investments, and must agree to pay an annual lump-sum tax and a one-time residence permit application fee.
What are the benefits of obtaining Swiss residence through investment?

Benefits include the right to live and study in Switzerland, visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen Area, and access to a high standard of living and education.
What is the minimum investment required for the Swiss Residence Program?

Between CHF 250,000 and CHF 1 million per year annual lump sum tax payment (determined case by case).
How long does it take to process an application for the Swiss Residence Program?

Processing times for residence by investment applications may vary. Please contact us to find out more.
Can family members be included in the Swiss Residence Program application?

Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse, dependent in their application. Dependent parents may be added only under special circumstances.
What are the residence requirements for the Swiss Residence Program?

Applicants must establish residence in Switzerland and spend a significant amount of time in the country.
What documents are required for the Swiss Residence Program application?

Required documents include a valid passport, a clean criminal record, CV, relevant financial information, and other supporting documents.
Is it possible to obtain Swiss citizenship through the residence by investment program?

Yes, after maintaining residence for ten to twelve years, investors may be eligible to apply for Swiss citizenship.
What is the process for applying to the Swiss Residence Program?

Applicants must choose a qualifying investment, submit the application with the necessary documents, and undergo a due diligence process.

Country Information

Switzerland, famous for its financial services, watchmakers, and popular tourism regions, ranks among the world’s top countries due to the country’s notable high quality of life, with Bern, Geneva, and Zurich frequently nominated as some of the best cities in the world to live in.

Population:	8.9 million
Languages:	German, French, Italian
Economy:	Advanced, modern market
Currency:	Swiss franc

Living in Switzerland

An ideal combination of political and economic stability, a clean and safe environment, excellent communications and transport links, efficient public services, and relatively low tax rates makes the country an excellent choice for both business and residence.

Switzerland is home to a large number of international organizations, such as the International Labor Organization, International Red Cross, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Universal Postal Union, the World Health Organization, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the World Trade Organization. Many leading international corporations are relocating their headquarters to Switzerland, as the country is business-friendly by tradition. Its 26 cantons offer companies a wide range of options and opportunities.

Explore Switzerland Real Estate Opportunities

Investing in international property opens the door to lifestyle benefits, portfolio diversification, and potential residence or citizenship opportunities.

DLB Global provides access to carefully selected real estate opportunities across some of Switzerland’s most desirable destinations. Each offering unique advantages — from strong investment potential to strategic mobility benefits.

Ready to Explore Your Global Opportunities?

Let DLB Global guide you in securing the right investment, residence, or citizenship solution. Connect with our experts today and start your journey with confidence.