Permit Guides

Insurance by permit type

Your Swiss residence permit determines which insurance rules apply to you. The differences are significant — especially for cross-border commuters and short-stay workers. Find your permit below.

B PermitMost Common

B-Permit — Temporary Residence

Annual renewable permit for employed and self-employed foreigners. Full Swiss insurance obligations apply. Most expats start here.

Valid: 1 year, renewableRead guide

C Permit

C-Permit — Settlement Permit

Permanent settlement for long-term residents. Same insurance obligations as Swiss citizens. Switching to a different canton requires notification.

Valid: 5 years, renewableRead guide

L Permit

L-Permit — Short-Stay Permit

For assignments or contracts under 12 months. KVG still mandatory. Special rules for EU/EFTA citizens on short assignments.

Valid: Up to 12 monthsRead guide

G Permit

G-Permit — Cross-Border Commuter

Live in a neighbouring country, work in Switzerland. Complex insurance split: KVG optional under certain conditions, but employer insurances apply in full.

Valid: 1–5 yearsRead guide

Not sure which permit you have or are getting?

Your permit category is printed on your residence permit card (Ausländerausweis). It's typically a letter (B, C, L, G) followed by EU/EFTA or non-EU/EFTA designation. If you're still in the application process, ask your employer's HR or the cantonal migration office.

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