Swiss naturalisation, canton by canton
Federal law sets the framework, but each canton sets its own residence period, test, fees and procedure. Here are the rules in the cantons where we work.
- VDVaud2 years, including the year before the application
- GEGeneva2 years, including the 12 months before the application, and throughout the procedure
- VSValais5 years in the canton, including 3 years in the municipality
- FRFribourgAt least 3 years, including 2 in the last 5 years
- NENeuchâtel2 years, including the year before the application
- JUJuraThe last 2 years in the same municipality
- BEBern (Bernese Jura, Biel/Bienne)2 years without interruption in the municipality
What differs between cantons
- The residence period in the canton (2 to 5 years) and sometimes in the municipality.
- The authority where you file the application: the canton, or the municipality first.
- The knowledge test: written, oral, or during an interview.
- Cantonal and municipal fees, which can vary by a factor of three.
Start with the free test
In less than a minute, find out whether you can apply now, or how long you still have to wait.