Residency in Switzerland provides a world-class lifestyle, strong legal system and favorable tax regime.
Wealthy non-EU/EFTA nationals can obtain Swiss residency through lump-sum taxation or company incorporation, depending on their lifestyle and business goals.
The Switzerland Residency by Investment Program allows wealthy non-EU/EFTA nationals and their families to secure legal residence in Switzerland through either a lump-sum taxation agreement or company incorporation. It is one of the most prestigious residency pathways in Europe, for investors who want to either reside long term in Switzerland or to form and develop business operations.
Successful applicants obtain the right to live in Switzerland, benefit from its renowned healthcare and education systems, and enjoy the privileges of visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. The program is particularly appealing to high-net-worth individuals seeking a safe, neutral, and discreet jurisdiction with a favorable tax framework.
The pathway is clearly defined: residence permits are issued on the basis of a negotiated lump-sum tax or substantial business investment, with family members included in the application. While the program does not provide an immediate route to citizenship, permanent residency is possible after 10 years, and Swiss citizenship by naturalization can typically be pursued after 12 years of continuous residence.
With its political neutrality, world-class infrastructure, and high quality of life, Switzerland’s program offers an exclusive and secure alternative to other European residency schemes.
The Swiss program is designed for financially independent individuals and entrepreneurs seeking stability, prestige, and access to Europe while maintaining privacy. It is not a transactional “golden visa” but a structured residency program requiring long-term commitment.
High-net-worth individuals seeking discretion and security
Ideal for those who want a safe, neutral jurisdiction with a strong tradition of financial privacy and political neutrality.
Global entrepreneurs and investors
Suited to business leaders who wish to establish or expand operations in Switzerland, contributing to job creation and benefiting from the country’s central European location.
Families prioritizing education and quality of life
Offers access to world-class healthcare, international schools, and a secure, family-friendly environment.
Lifestyle-driven residents
Attracts those seeking an exceptional standard of living, access to luxury services, and the ability to enjoy Switzerland’s alpine landscapes, ski resorts, and cultural hubs.
Individuals not seeking local employment
Particularly favorable for those with substantial foreign income or assets, since the lump-sum taxation route does not permit employment or business activity within Switzerland.
What it is:
Foreign nationals may obtain Swiss residency by agreeing to pay an annual lump-sum tax to the canton of residence, based on living expenses rather than worldwide income or assets.
Minimum Annual Tax:
From CHF 250,000 at federal level (varies by canton; often CHF 400,000+ depending on location and lifestyle).
Requirements:
Processing Time:
Several weeks to a few months, depending on canton.
Validity & Renewal:
Residence permit renewable annually as long as lump-sum taxation agreement is maintained.
Compliance Obligations:
Additional Notes:
Ideal for wealthy individuals and families seeking access to living in Switzeland without engaging in Swiss employment.
What it is:
Applicants establish or acquire a Swiss company, typically in the form of a stock corporation (SA) or limited liability company (GmbH). The business must create measurable economic value for Switzerland.
Investment Amount:
Significant investment expected, generally between CHF 1–6 million depending on canton, business type, and job creation.
Requirements:
Processing Time:
Several months, depending on business approval and immigration review.
Validity & Renewal:
Residence permit typically valid 1 year, renewable upon proof of ongoing business activity, compliance, and job creation.
Compliance Obligations:
Additional Notes:
Suited for entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors expanding into Europe with Switzerland as their base.
NTL Trust ensures that every step is handled with precision and care. Whether you choose the Lump-Sum Taxation Route or the Company Incorporation Route, our Swiss experts manage the details so you can focus on planning your new life.
We are here to review your profile, lifestyle goals, and canton preferences. Our team will help you with everything: from negotiating with the cantonal tax authorities to securing the most favorable fixed-tax arrangement.
Sign a Professional Service Agreement and Make Downpayment.
We will assist you with gathering passports, CVs, proof of address, insurance, and police clearances. A key part is your agreement with the Swiss Tax Administration, which we handle on your behalf.
You attend a brief appointment to confirm residency, submit biometrics, and sign your tax agreement. We accompany you throughout.
Once approved, you and your family receive Swiss residence permits, granting the right to live in Switzerland while managing your international affairs abroad.
From renewals, family office services, and private schooling advice to property acquisition and tax planning, we provide long-term support so your residency remains secure and fully compliant.
We will help you map out your business plan, canton selection, and the scale of investment (typically CHF 1-6 million).
You’ll sign a Professional Service Agreement and make the initial downpayment. From this point forward, our team manages the process for you.
Our team coordinates incorporation (usually as a Swiss SA company), notarial filings, and banking setup. We ensure your business creates jobs and demonstrates real economic benefit.
We will prepare and submit required documents, including diplomas, employment contracts, and proof of unsuccessful local recruitment (if hiring foreign staff).
With your company active and your director role confirmed, Swiss authorities issue residence permits for you and your family.
From renewals, family office services, and private schooling advice to property acquisition and tax planning, we provide long-term support so your residency remains secure and fully compliant.
| Feature | Switzerland | UK Innovator Founder | Latvia Business Residency | Portugal Job-Creation Residency |
| Minimum Investment | Lump-sum tax from ~CHF 250,000 annually OR CHF 1–6M business investment | £50,000+ business funds, innovative/viable/scalable plan | €50,000 share capital in a Latvian company | Create 10+ jobs for Portuguese citizens OR invest ~€350,000–€500,000 in a company |
| Processing Time | 3–6 months (varies by canton and route) | 3–6 months | 2–3 months | 3–6 months |
| Residency Validity | 1 year, renewable (tax agreement or company activity must remain active) | 3 years, renewable | 5 years, renewable | 2 years, renewable |
| Permanent Residency | After 10 years of continuous stay | After 3 years (ILR route) | After 5 years | After 5 years |
| Citizenship Eligibility | Typically after 10–12 years | After 5–6 years total | After 10 years | After 5 years (if fully resident) |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse & dependent children included | Spouse & dependent children included | Spouse & dependent children included | Spouse & dependent children included |
| Employment Rights | Lump-sum: no employment; company route: director/owner only | Full employment in sponsored business | Business founder/manager role | Full employment in created company |
| Tax Environment | Negotiated lump-sum tax or low corporate tax (by canton) | Global taxation on worldwide income | Corporate tax ~20%; personal tax 20%–31% | Corporate tax ~21%; incentives for job-creation projects |
| Lifestyle Advantage | Prestige, stability, world-class healthcare/education, Schengen mobility | Dynamic business hub, access to UK market | Affordable EU gateway, low living costs | Southern European lifestyle, EU residency, access to Schengen |
Switzerland does not offer direct citizenship by investment. Instead, residency is the first step in a longer journey toward naturalization. Investors must commit to living in Switzerland for the long term and maintaining their chosen residency route (lump-sum taxation or company formation).
Key Pathway:
Requirements for Naturalization:
Benefits of Swiss Citizenship:
Switzerland consistently ranks among the top countries worldwide for quality of life, offering a unique balance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern convenience.
Switzerland’s Residency by Investment program is a bespoke, highly regulated path for high-net-worth families who value discretion, prestige and quality of life.
The Swiss Residence Program allows non-EU/EFTA nationals to obtain residency by either paying an annual lump-sum tax or incorporating a Swiss company that benefits the local economy.
Two main options:
Right to live in Switzerland with family, visa-free Schengen travel, access to Swiss education and healthcare, favorable tax regimes, and eventual pathway to citizenship.
Foreign nationals can invest via lump-sum taxation agreements, establishing a business, or in some cantons, by purchasing and developing property (restrictions apply).
Buying property alone does not qualify for residency. Property may complement other routes, but residence requires lump-sum taxation or company incorporation.
There is no direct “citizenship by investment.” Costs relate to maintaining your investment or tax commitment for 10–12 years before applying for citizenship.
Students typically receive study permits. PR eligibility comes after 10 years of continuous residence (with years spent as a student counting toward this).
Depending on the canton and route, processing can take from several weeks up to 3–6 months.
For residency by nvestment, no language test is required. For citizenship, proficiency in the local language of your canton is mandatory.
Yes, spouses and dependent children under 18 can be included in your application.
Lump-sum residents must spend at least 183 days in Switzerland (or 6 months per year). Company directors must actively manage their Swiss business.
Typical documents: valid passport, CV, police clearance, proof of address, health insurance, business plan (for incorporation route), and financial documents.
Yes, but only after holding residency for at least 10 years (12 years in some cases), integrating into Swiss society, and demonstrating language skills.
Choose a canton and investment route → Prepare and submit documents → Negotiate tax agreement or set up business → Apply for residence permit → Relocate to Switzerland → Maintain residency and investment for renewals.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. While NTL Trust strives to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, laws and regulations regarding immigration, residency, and taxation are subject to change without notice and may vary by individual circumstances.
NTL Trust is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. All residency and investment services are conducted in compliance with applicable Swiss laws and in coordination with licensed local professionals and government-authorized partners.
Residency approval is at the discretion of the Swiss immigration authorities and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants are solely responsible for ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the documents submitted as part of their application.
We recommend that prospective applicants seek independent legal and financial advice tailored to their individual situation before making any decisions regarding immigration, investment, or relocation.
NTL Trust disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the information provided herein.
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