Facilitated naturalisation, B residence permit, family member according to art. 42 FNIA.
Last reviewed
03.06.2026
Statute as of
01.01.2024
Statute citations
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41 min read
As of: 01.06.2026 · Snapshot
Marriage to a Swiss national — immigration consequences
1. Overview: What happens from a foreign nationals law perspective when marrying a Swiss national?
Frequently asked
4 answers on this topic.
Concrete questions people ask about Marriage to a Swiss national..
B residence permit with entitlement to family reunification (art. 42 FNIA). The right of residence depends on living in the same household; in the event of separation or divorce, art. 50 FNIA applies (three-year rule + integration). After five years of marriage and a total of three years of residence: entitlement to facilitated naturalisation according to art. 21 SCA.
If a foreign national marries a Swiss national, this creates a
right to family reunification
under Article 42 of the Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration (AIG, SR 142.20). The resulting permit is usually a
B residence permit
.
Important for clarification:
The B residence permit is the standard permit for the foreign spouse of a Swiss national.
The Ci permit is, in contrast, reserved for spouses and children of employees of international organisations or foreign representations (Fedlex·Art. 45 VZAE) and does not apply in the normal case of marriage.
The C permit (settlement) is not the initial outcome in the context of family reunification with a Swiss spouse; it is only available after 5 years of lawful residence with integration as a so-called early settlement (Art. 42 para. 3 AIG), or after 10 years under the ordinary procedure.
An L short-term permit (for short stays) is not applicable in the case of marriage: the claim under Fedlex·Art. 42 AIG relates to a B residence permit.
The claim under Fedlex·Art. 42 AIG is a legal entitlement and not a discretionary decision: if the legal requirements are met and there is no ground for revocation, the cantonal migration office must grant the permit. This fundamentally distinguishes the situation from family reunification for third-country nationals holding a B permit (Fedlex·Art. 44 AIG), where additional requirements such as sufficient income, adequate housing and proof of language skills must be met. The nature of the claim as a legal entitlement means that a negative ruling by the cantonal migration office can be appealed to the cantonal appeal body and, ultimately, to the Federal Supreme Court (Art. 83 BGG, by contrast).
This module describes the legal mechanisms, the relevant federal laws, and the consequences that may arise from subsequent life events (divorce, death, facilitated naturalisation, birth of children). It does not replace individual legal advice – the reproduction of the laws is a summary, and the individual case regularly depends on cantonal practice, evidence and procedural details.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
Para. 1: Foreign spouses and unmarried children under the age of 18 of Swiss nationals are entitled to the issue and extension of a residence permit if they live with them.
Die AIG (jetzt FNIA) sieht vor, dass der Schuldner seine Vermögenswerte offenlegt und der Gläubigerschaft zur Verfügung stellt.
Gemäss Art. 113 BüG kann das BVGer die Wegweisung eines Ausländers anordnen, wenn dieser sich nicht an die Bedingungen seines Aufenthaltsbewilligung B hält.
Das Staatssekretariat für Migration (SEM) ist zuständig für die Umsetzung des Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz und des Asylgesetz.
Bei einem Schengen-Overstay kann die Niederlassungsbewilligung C widerrufen werden.
Die Familiennachzug-Bestimmungen des Freizügigkeitsabkommen gelten für Staatsangehörige der EU/EFTA.
Ein Härtefall kann dazu führen, dass die Einbürgerung beschleunigt wird.
Das Kantonales Migrationsamt ist für die Durchführung von Einbürgerung zuständig.
Die Beschwerde gegen die Verfügung des BVGer muss innerhalb von 30 Tagen beim Bundesgericht eingereicht werden.
Para. 2: Foreign family members of Swiss nationals are entitled to the issue and renewal of a residence permit if they hold a permanent residence permit issued by a state with which an agreement on the free movement of persons has been concluded. Family members are defined as: (a) the spouse and relatives in the descending line who are under 21 years of age or to whom maintenance is provided; (b) the relatives in the ascending line and the relatives of the spouse to whom maintenance is provided.
Die AIG (jetzt FNIA) sieht vor, dass der Schuldner seine Vermögenswerte offenlegt und der Gläubigerschaft zur Verfügung stellt.
Gemäss Art. 113 BüG kann das BVGer die Wegweisung eines Ausländers anordnen, wenn dieser sich nicht an die Bedingungen seines Aufenthaltsbewilligung B hält.
Das Staatssekretariat für Migration (SEM) ist zuständig für die Umsetzung des Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz und des Asylgesetz.
Bei einem Schengen-Overstay kann die Niederlassungsbewilligung C widerrufen werden.
Die Familiennachzug-Bestimmungen des Freizügigkeitsabkommen gelten für Staatsangehörige der EU/EFTA.
Ein Härtefall kann dazu führen, dass die Einbürgerung beschleunigt wird.
Das Kantonales Migrationsamt ist für die Durchführung von Einbürgerung zuständig.
Die Beschwerde gegen die Verfügung des BVGer muss innerhalb von 30 Tagen beim Bundesgericht eingereicht werden.
Para. 3: After five years of lawful and uninterrupted residence, spouses are entitled to be granted a C settlement permit if the integration criteria under Art. 58a FNIA are met.
Die AIG (jetzt FNIA) sieht vor, dass der Schuldner seine Vermögenswerte offenlegt und der Gläubigerschaft zur Verfügung stellt.
Gemäss Art. 113 BüG kann das BVGer die Wegweisung eines Ausländers anordnen, wenn dieser sich nicht an die Bedingungen seines Aufenthaltsbewilligung B hält.
Das Staatssekretariat für Migration (SEM) ist zuständig für die Umsetzung des Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz und des Asylgesetz.
Bei einem Schengen-Overstay kann die Niederlassungsbewilligung C widerrufen werden.
Die Familiennachzug-Bestimmungen des Freizügigkeitsabkommen gelten für Staatsangehörige der EU/EFTA.
Ein Härtefall kann dazu führen, dass die Einbürgerung beschleunigt wird.
Das Kantonales Migrationsamt ist für die Durchführung von Einbürgerung zuständig.
Die Beschwerde gegen die Verfügung des BVGer muss innerhalb von 30 Tagen beim Bundesgericht eingereicht werden.
Para. 4: Children under the age of twelve are entitled to be granted a C settlement permit.
Note: The above is a summary. In cases of interpretation, the consolidated text on Fedlex as of the relevant date shall always be the decisive reference.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
3. Requirements for entitlement to a B residence permit
3.1 Living together with the Swiss spouse
Art. 42 para. 1 AIG expressly stipulates that the foreign spouse must live with the Swiss national. Cohabitation is the norm. Exceptions to cohabitation are only possible in cases of important reasons (Fedlex·Art. 49 AIG: e.g. professional obligations, school-related reasons for the children, health reasons; however, the marital relationship must continue to exist).
3.2 Existing marital relationship
Beyond mere cohabitation, there must be a lived marital relationship. The case law of the Federal Supreme Court (BGE 137 II 281; BGE 130 II 113) examines the existence of an actual cohabitation based on objective evidence.
3.3 No grounds for revocation (Art. 51 FNIA)
Art. 51 para. 1 LEI/LStrI/FNIA lists the grounds for revocation and lapse exhaustively:
Claims under Art. 42 shall lapse if they are made in an abusive manner (in particular, in order to circumvent the admission requirements – so-called sham marriage).
The claims also lapse if grounds for revocation pursuant to Art. 63 AIG exist (e.g. prolonged imprisonment, serious threat to public safety, dependence on social welfare).
3.4 Proof of language skills — VERIFY marker
The practical application of the A1 language certificate is controversial in detail:
Art. 43 para. 1 lit. d LEI/LStrI/FNIA expressly requires proof of A1 certification for family reunification in the case of third-country nationals holding a B permit.
Art. 42 AIG (spouse of Swiss nationals) does not contain any explicit wording regarding an A1 language proficiency requirement. However, legal doctrine and cantonal practice partially interpret a language requirement into the concept of integration (Fedlex·Art. 58a AIG), in particular for the extension and granting of the C settlement permit.
VERIFY: Whether proof of A1 is already required when the B residence permit is issued for the first time to the spouse of a Swiss national depends on cantonal practice. This question should be clarified with the relevant cantonal migration office.
Proof of language proficiency (if required): fide certificate or equivalent recognised language certificate (list of recognised certificates: SEM).
3.5 No proof of income required
Unlike family reunification for third-country nationals holding a B permit (Fedlex·Art. 44 AIG: income sufficient to cover needs + accommodation), Art. 42 AIG does not require prior proof of income. The family reunification scenario involving a Swiss spouse is, in this respect, privileged.
However, dependence on social welfare can subsequently lead to revocation (Art. 63 para. 1 lit. c LEI/LStrI/FNIA in conjunction with Art. 51 LEI/LStrI/FNIA).
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
In Switzerland: Marriage registration at the civil registry office in the place of residence of one of the spouses. Preliminary proceedings involving the examination of documents (birth certificate, certificate of no impediment, if applicable, divorce decree, identity documents). The civil registry office examines the application within the scope of its jurisdiction in accordance with Art. 97a of the Swiss Civil Code (prohibition of circumvention).
Abroad: Marriage concluded in accordance with the law of that country. Subsequent recognition in Switzerland in accordance with Art. 45 of the Federal Act on International Private Law (SR 291) — see section 14.
Step 2: Application to the cantonal migration office
If residing in Switzerland: Application should be submitted to the competent cantonal migration office at the place of residence. The following documents must be enclosed: marriage certificate, valid travel documents, if applicable, proof of language skills (see 3.4), recent criminal record extract, proof of residence, rental agreement.
If residing abroad: Visa application should be submitted to the relevant Swiss mission abroad. The visa will be issued after consultation with the cantonal migration office.
Step 3: Issuing the B residence permit
The cantonal migration office checks the requirements under Fedlex·Art. 42 AIG and, if these are met, issues the B residence permit. The entitlement is legally established, provided that there are no grounds for revocation.
Processing time: typically 6–12 weeks at cantonal level after all documents have been submitted; in the case of registration from abroad, the visa processing time must also be taken into account (usually an additional 6–10 weeks). The duration varies considerably depending on the canton and the workload. VERIFY: current canton-specific processing times should be requested from the relevant migration office.
Step 4: Identification and Registration
After approval, the B residence permit is issued. Registration with the local residents’ registration office within the period prescribed by the canton (typically 14 days after entry or taking up residence).
Step 5: Fees
For the initial issue of the B permit, as well as for its subsequent renewal, the cantons charge fees, which are governed by cantonal law. Usual range: CHF 95–160 for the initial issue per adult, CHF 65–125 for the renewal. In addition, there may be visa fees for registration abroad and fees for the marriage itself (civil registry office; CHF 300–500 per canton). VERIFY: Specific fees should be requested from the relevant cantonal migration office and civil registry office.
Note on the order of procedures and visa-related aspects
Anyone entering Switzerland from a third country that requires a visa and who wishes to marry here should note the following: Entering with a tourist visa (Schengen type C) is not necessarily compatible with the purpose of getting married. The correct procedure is to apply for a national visa (type D) at the Swiss embassy or consulate in order to prepare for the marriage. Otherwise, there is a risk of delays in the proceedings or the need to leave and re-enter the country. VERIFY: Current SEM practice regarding the visa requirements prior to marriage.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
5. Sham marriage — Art. 51 LEI/LStrI/FNIA and Art. 97a ZGB
5.1 Legal basis
Art. 97a ZGB — Circumvention of the law on foreign nationals:
The civil registrar will not entertain the application if it is obvious that the bride or groom does not intend to establish a joint household, but rather seeks to circumvent the provisions on admission and residence of foreign nationals.
Art. 51 para. 1 lit. a LEI/LStrI/FNIA: The claims under Art. 42 shall lapse if they are asserted in an abusive manner, in particular in order to circumvent the provisions on the admission and stay of foreign nationals.
5.2 Indications from the Federal Supreme Court for a sham marriage
The case law of the Federal Supreme Court (in particular, BGE 137 II 281; see also BGer 2C_177/2013) examines a number of indicators:
significant age difference between the spouses
short period of acquaintance before the marriage
Circumstances of the initial meeting (in particular, whether it was arranged, and whether it took place in a commercial setting)
imminent removal of the foreign national at the time of the marriage
lack of linguistic communication between the spouses
lack of marital community after the marriage (no cohabitation, separate residences)
Payment for entering into marriage.
swift separation after the permit has been granted
inconsistent statements made by the spouses regarding details of how they met, their wedding, or their daily lives when questioned separately.
lack of integration into the social networks of the other person (no acquaintances on one side know the other)
Important: A single piece of evidence alone does not justify the presumption of a sham marriage. A comprehensive assessment of all the circumstances in the individual case is required. The Federal Supreme Court requires that the evidence, taken as a whole, gives rise to a significant suspicion of a circumvention of the law. The burden of proof for the alleged sham marriage generally lies with the authority; however, if there are clear indications, the burden of substantiation for mitigating circumstances shifts — the spouses must then specifically demonstrate the actual cohabitation.
The evidence must be considered dynamically: evidence which did not lead to the refusal of the permit when it was first issued (e.g. a significant age difference alone) may be reassessed in subsequent proceedings (e.g. separation 13 months after the permit was issued) as part of a revocation procedure.
5.3 Legal consequences
Before the marriage: The civil registry office does not grant the request for marriage (Fedlex·Art. 97a ZGB).
After the permit has been granted: Revocation of the permit (Fedlex·Art. 51 AIG i. V. m. Art. 62/63 AIG), possible removal, possible entry ban, possible criminal consequences (Fedlex·Art. 118 AIG: deceiving the authorities).
5.4 Anti-Scope Notice
SIP-v3 does not provide any advice on "avoiding the indications of a sham marriage". The above indications are presented as factual information taken from case law, and not as strategic advice. Anyone who has a genuine relationship does not need a strategy; anyone who does not have such a relationship should not obtain a permit. Individual advice in a specific case should only be obtained from a lawyer registered in the cantonal bar register.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
Art. 46 FNIA: The spouse of a Swiss national holding a B residence permit may be employed in Switzerland, either as an employee or self-employed. No additional work permit is required; no sectoral or quota restrictions apply.
6.2 Choice of residence
Within Switzerland, the place of residence can generally be chosen freely. Moving residence to another canton requires registration with the new municipality of residence within the cantonal deadline (typically 14 days).
6.3 Family reunification with own children
Children from a previous relationship can be brought to join the family:
Children under 12 years of age: within 5 years from the date on which the right to family reunification arises (Art. 47 para. 1 LEI/LStrI/FNIA).
Children between the ages of 12 and 18: within 12 months from the date on which the right arises (Art. 47 para. 1 LEI/LStrI/FNIA).
If claimed late: only in cases of important family reasons (Art. 47 para. 4 LEI/LStrI/FNIA).
6.4 Social security and health insurance obligations
Upon taking up residence in Switzerland, there is an obligation to join the mandatory health insurance scheme (KVG) within 3 months and to be subject to the AHV/IV scheme.
6.5 Travel and Visa-Free Access within the Schengen Area
A valid Swiss B residence permit entitles the holder to visa-free entry and short-term stays in all Schengen states in accordance with Schengen standards (90 days within a 180-day period per member state). For longer stays in a Schengen member state, that state’s national immigration law applies.
6.6 Validity and extension
The B permit is initially issued for 1 year, and then extended for 2 years each time. The application for renewal must be submitted to the competent cantonal migration office at least 2 weeks before the expiry date. When extending the permit, the authority checks whether the conditions under Fedlex·Art. 42 AIG continue to be met, in particular whether the marriage still exists.
6.7 Loss of permit — risks in everyday life
Even after it has been issued, the B permit may lapse or be revoked in the following circumstances:
extended absence from Switzerland (over 6 months without an approved extension — Art. 61 para. 2 LEI/LStrI/FNIA)
Dissolution of the marital union without valid reasons (Art. 49 LEI/LStrI/FNIA)
7. Early C settlement permit — Art. 42 para. 3 FNIA
7.1 Requirements
Art. 42 para. 3 LEI/LStrI/FNIA: After a lawful and uninterrupted stay of five years, spouses of Swiss nationals are entitled to be granted a C settlement permit if the integration criteria under Art. 58a LEI/LStrI/FNIA are met.
Respect for the values of the Federal Constitution
Language skills
Participation in economic life or in acquiring education.
7.2 Language requirements for early C
According to Art. 60a OASA (Ordinance on Admission, Residence and Employment, SR 142.201), the following is required for early settlement as part of family reunification under Art. 42 LEI/LStrI/FNIA:
minimum oral language skills at level B1 (reference language of the place of residence)
demonstrable written language skills at least at level A1
This requirement is lower than the standard requirement for ordinary early settlement for other foreign nationals (B1 oral + A2 written, as per Fedlex·Art. 60 VZAE).
VERIFY: The threshold levels in OASA Art. 60a can be amended by ordinance. The current wording as of the relevant date (01.01.2024) should be checked on Fedlex: https://www.fedlex.admin.ch/eli/cc/2007/759/de
7.3 Ordinary settlement after 10 years
Regardless of early settlement, the standard claim for settlement after 10 years of holding a B residence permit (Fedlex·Art. 34 AIG) applies, provided that the integration criteria are met.
7.4 Consequences of the C permit compared to the B permit
The C settlement permit is unlimited in duration (with a three-year validity period for the identity card; the right does not lapse upon expiry of the identity card) and unconditional in the sense that it is not tied to specific purposes. The change from a B residence permit to a C settlement permit in particular entails:
Unlimited right of residence: No further periodic extension required.
Threshold for removal: Higher than for B permit holders; the revocation of a C permit requires a higher threshold to be met (Fedlex·Art. 63 AIG).
Facilitated naturalisation requirements: Holding a C permit automatically fulfils the requirement of having a right of residence for ordinary naturalisation.
Travel and absence abroad tolerance: Absences abroad of up to 6 months do not affect the C permit; longer absences can be approved upon request (Fedlex·Art. 61 AIG).
7.5 Termination of the basis for entitlement to a B permit in the event of interruptions to residence.
The "regular and uninterrupted" 5-year stay according to Art. 42 para. 3 AIG requires actual residence in Switzerland. Interruptions of stay of more than 6 months can interrupt the 5-year period and thus postpone the date of early settlement (Fedlex·Art. 61 AIG on the expiry of the permit; application by analogy). VERIFY: Current cantonal practice regarding permissible stays abroad without interrupting the period.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
8. Swiss Citizenship — Facilitated Naturalisation Following Marriage (SCA Art. 21)
8.1 Requirements
Art. 21 SCA (Swiss Citizenship Act, SR 141.0):
5 years of residence in Switzerland, of which
3 years in a marital relationship with the Swiss national
successful integration as defined in Art. 12 SCA (observance of the security and values framework, language skills, participation in economic life, promotion of family integration)
Alternative scenario for spouses of Swiss citizens residing abroad: Art. 21 para. 2 SCA (6 years of marriage + close ties to Switzerland).
8.2 Language requirements
According to Art. 6 of the Swiss Citizenship Ordinance (SCA, SR 141.01):
minimum oral language skills at level B1
demonstrable written language skills at least at level A2
8.3 Procedure for facilitated naturalisation
The procedure for facilitated naturalisation is governed by federal law (Art. 28 SCA et seq.), and cantonal and municipal involvement is limited to providing opinions. The Confederation (SEM) makes the decision. Procedure:
Application to the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) on the prescribed form, with supporting documents relating to residence, marriage, integration, language skills, employment situation, and criminal and debt registers of both spouses.
Enquiries with the canton and municipality of residence regarding integration, reputation and any potential security concerns.
Decision of the SEM. If the application is approved, Swiss citizenship is acquired simultaneously at the federal, cantonal and municipal levels (Art. 33 SCA).
Processing time: typically 18–24 months from the date of receipt of the complete application by the SEM. VERIFY: Current SEM processing times vary considerably depending on the volume of applications.
8.4 Loss of Swiss citizenship in the event of a sham marriage
If facilitated naturalisation is withdrawn by the SEM within 5 years of its entry into force, this will be the case if it is based on false information or a sham marriage (Art. 36 SCA: declaration of nullity). The deadline is 2 years from the date of becoming aware of the grounds for nullity, but no more than 8 years after naturalisation. The case law of the Federal Supreme Court (including BGer 1C_796/2013) applies similar indicia here as in the assessment of sham marriages in the context of the AIG (see section 5.2).
8.5 Cross-Reference
Detailed requirements, procedures and cantonal-municipal obligations can be found in framework/fw_bug_2018_glossary.md.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
9. What happens in the event of divorce or separation — Art. 50 LEI/LStrI/FNIA
9.1 Legal basis
Art. 50 para. 1 LEI/LStrI/FNIA: Following the dissolution of the marriage or the family community, the spouse’s right to be granted and have their residence permit extended under Art. 42 shall continue to exist if:
lit. a: The marriage has lasted for at least 3 yearsand the integration criteria according to Art. 58a FNIA have been met, or
lit. b:important personal reasons make a further stay in Switzerland necessary.
Art. 50 para. 2 LEI/LStrI/FNIA specifies important personal reasons: in particular, if the spouse has been a victim of marital violence, the marriage was not entered into freely, or social reintegration in the country of origin appears to be seriously at risk.
9.2 Early separation — before 3 years of marriage.
If the separation occurs before the 3-year threshold under Art. 50 para. 1 lit. a AIG is reached, the only option is to rely on important personal reasons (Art. 50 para. 1 lit. b AIG). The case law in this area is strict: the psychological hardship of returning or having successfully integrated into the Swiss labour market is generally not sufficient on its own. Objective circumstances are required, such as domestic violence, forced marriage, or significantly more difficult reintegration in the country of origin (especially after a long stay with a loss of cultural ties in the country of origin).
9.3 Loss of permit due to de facto separation
Please note: Even the de facto termination of cohabitation (before a formal divorce) can trigger the expiry of the permit. Art. 42 para. 1 AIG requires cohabitation; without this, the claim lapses. In this situation, the permit holder must proactively invoke Fedlex·Art. 50 AIG.
9.4 Cross-Reference
For detailed information on the Article 50 procedure, the 3-year calculation, the requirements for evidence in cases of domestic violence, and relevant case law, see life-events/le_divorce_art50.md.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
10. What happens upon the death of the Swiss spouse
The death of the Swiss spouse triggers a similar mechanism as the divorce under Fedlex·Art. 50 AIG:
The claim under Art. 42 formally lapses upon death, because the marriage ceases to be the relevant connecting factor.
The permit may, however, be extended under Art. 50 para. 1 lit. b AIG ("important personal reasons"), in particular in cases of long-term marriage, an integrated life in Switzerland or common children.
Detailed procedure — procedures, deadlines, requirements for evidence — see life-events/le_death_of_permit_holder.md.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
Children whose father or mother is a Swiss national acquire Swiss citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis) at birth — Art. 1 SCA. This applies regardless of the place of birth.
Important: In the case of children born abroad, the parents must register the birth with a Swiss representation before the child reaches the age of 25, otherwise the Swiss citizenship may be lost (Art. 7 SCA) – unless the child is resident in Switzerland or otherwise demonstrates an attachment to Swiss citizenship.
11.2 Stepchildren and Blended Families
Stepchildren (children of the foreign spouse from a previous relationship) can be brought to join the family in accordance with Art. 42 para. 1 AIG in conjunction with Fedlex·Art. 47 AIG. The question of custody is central: if the spouse who is joining the family has sole custody, the family reunification is generally possible; if custody is shared with the other parent who remains abroad, their consent and, if necessary, considerations relating to the child's best interests must be examined (Art. 47 para. 4 AIG).
11.3 Cross-Reference
Detailed treatment of birth, recognition and family reunification scenarios can be found in life-events/le_birth_to_permit_holder.md (in preparation).
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
Since 1 July 2022, marriage for all has been in force in Switzerland. Same-sex couples can now enter into a marriage under the Swiss Civil Code (ZGB). The immigration consequences of marrying a Swiss national are fully equal to those of marriage between opposite-sex couples. Fedlex·Art. 42 AIG is formulated in a gender-neutral manner and applies directly.
12.2 Registered Partnership
The registered partnership under the Registered Partnerships Act (PartG, SR 211.231) remains available – however, since the introduction of marriage for all, it is now only available for existing registered partnerships (no new registrations are possible; conversion into a marriage is possible under a simplified procedure).
Equality in immigration law: Art. 52 LEI/LStrI/FNIA explicitly equates registered partnerships with marriage. All family reunification provisions (Art. 42–47 LEI/LStrI/FNIA) apply by analogy.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
13. Foreign Marriages — Recognition in Switzerland
13.1 Principle
A marriage concluded abroad is recognised in Switzerland if it was validly concluded according to the law of the place where the marriage was concluded (Art. 45 IPRG, SR 291) and does not obviously violate Swiss public policy.
13.2 Recognition procedure
Certified marriage certificate from abroad (including an apostille or legalisation, depending on the country of origin).
Translation into a Swiss official language by a sworn translator.
Submission to the competent cantonal civil registry office for recognition and registration in the Swiss Register of Residents (Infostar).
13.3 Problematic scenarios
Certain forms of marriage are not recognised or are only partially recognised in Switzerland:
Child marriage (marriage under the age of 18): Non-recognition in accordance with Art. 105 of the Swiss Civil Code (ZGB) in conjunction with Art. 45a of the Swiss Private International Law Act (IPRG) in cases of clear violation of public policy.
Polygamy: Not recognised if it violates public policy.
Religious marriages without state registration in the country of origin: Recognition is only granted if the marriage is legally valid according to the law of that country.
Proxy marriages: Recognition to be examined on a case-by-case basis.
VERIFY: The practice regarding the recognition of cultural and religious marriages varies depending on the canton and the country. In this specific case, it is strongly recommended to seek advice from a lawyer registered in the cantonal bar register.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
SIP-v3 provides factual, law-based information on the immigration consequences of marrying a Swiss national. SIP-v3 does not provide advice:
for the strategic preparation of a marriage in order to obtain a permit;
to avoid the appearance of a sham marriage or to shape the outward appearance of a relationship;
regarding the choice of marriage location from a migration policy perspective;
for the formulation of case-specific applications or requests;
to assess the individual chances of obtaining a permit.
For individual queries, only a lawyer registered in the cantonal bar register or a recognised advisory centre in the field of migration should be consulted.
Status of the normative text: 01.01.2024. Last review: 2026-05-18. Next mandatory review at the latest: 90 days after the last review.
HARD GLOSSARY — non-negotiable Swiss federal codes / agency names.
"AIG" → "FNIA"
"Ausländer- und Integrationsgesetz" → "Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration"
"VZAE" → "OASA"
"BüG" → "SCA"
"Bürgerrechtsgesetz" → "Swiss Citizenship Act"
"FZA" → "AFMP"
"Freizügigkeitsabkommen" → "Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons"
"AsylG" → "AsylA"
"Asylgesetz" → "Asylum Act"
"nDSG" → "revFADP"
"DSG" → "FADP"
"SEM" → "SEM"
"Staatssekretariat für Migration" → "State Secretariat for Migration"
