Your Warm Guide to the Switzerland Golden Visa for Non‑EU Investors

If you’re thinking about moving to Switzerland via the residency-for-investment option. So you’re not dreaming too big. Switzerland quietly provides two thoughtful paths. Whether you seek simplicity and quiet or want to start a business in the Alps. This guide will bring you through both possibilities in very human-friendly words. In this article, we are going to talk about the golden visa in detail, including how to apply and who can apply.

What Is This Golden Visa?

Switzerland does not have a “golden passport” scheme, although it does provide residency to affluent non-EU investors via two main routes:

• Lump-Sum Tax Path (also known as “Forfait Fiscal”)
• Entrepreneurial/Business Investment Path

Path 1: Lump‑Sum Tax Route

This option allows you to pay a fixed tax amount depending on your living expenditures rather than your total earnings or assets. You do not need to disclose all of your worldwide revenue, and once agreed upon, your tax liability remains predictable.

Who Can Apply?

Here is the eligibility criteria for path 1, how to apply:

• Be non-Swiss and often non-EU/EFTA.
• Move to Switzerland for the first time or return after at least a decade away.
• Not working or operating a business in Switzerland.
• Spend at least 183 days each year in the designated canton.
• Choose a canton that still provides this option.

What Makes it Appealing

• Privacy: You are not required to disclose your global income; Swiss authorities are only interested in what you consent to.
• Stability: Once your tax is determined, it typically remains constant for years.
• Family welcome: Bring your spouse and children.
• Long-Term Path: After a few years, you can seek for permanent residency (C permit) and even citizenship if you fully integrate.

Path 2: Business Investment Route

If you are a non-EU citizen with a viable business plan or already operate a company. Switzerland provides you the opportunity to live and work there through its Business Investment Route. Unlike the lump-sum tax option (in which you pay taxes but cannot work). This choice is for those who desire to actively contribute to the Swiss economy, generate jobs, and participate in daily life in the nation.

Who Can Apply?

Here is the eligibility criteria for path 2, how to apply:

• Be a non-EU or EFTA national
• Invest at least CHF 1 million in a Swiss company.
• Become actively involved in the business.
• Present a compelling business plan that is both feasible and financially sound.
• Have a clean history and meet the normal immigration requirements.

How to apply?

• Create a Business Plan on Create a detailed, professional business plan that explains what your organization will do. Market research, Expected profits and expenditures, Long-term objectives and the number of local jobs that will be created
• Choose the region in Switzerland that best matches your business. Different cantons have varying rules and levels of support.
• Apply through the canton’s immigration and economic departments. They will analyze your business strategy and confirm that it will assist the local economy.
• Once the canton approves your application, it is forwarded to the national State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
• If granted, you will receive a B Permit (initial residency), which is typically good for one year and renewable.

Why People Choose Switzerland?

• Switzerland is among the safest countries in the world.
• Low crime rates and political stability help people feel safe.
• Clean air, fresh water, and breathtaking scenery may be found everywhere.
• People enjoy a life that is well-balanced between work and leisure.
• Swiss hospitals and doctors are noted for their high standards.
• Switzerland’s schools and colleges provide world-class education.