Immigration to Switzerland for Russians 

Switzerland is a popular immigration destination for Russian citizens who want to settle in an economically prosperous country. There is an extremely low unemployment rate and high salaries here, which, judging by the reviews, is useful for people seeking to develop professional skills. Also, entrepreneurs who want to register a business abroad and optimise taxation move to this state.  

Among the advantages of immigration to Switzerland, according to the reviews of Russians, the following stand out:  

• If you have a residence permit, visa-free travel to 191 states is opened;  The state has a very low crime rate;  

• Attractive social security systems are provided for citizens;  

• Switzerland has some of the best universities in the world and has access to budget educational programmes;  

• Switzerland has a well-developed transport infrastructure. 

Immigration programmes, list of documents  

There are two programmes of immigration to Switzerland, by which most often Russians move: standard naturalisation and simplified, through marriage. Being married to a citizen of this country for more than three years and having lived in the country for five years, you can get a passport. The fictitiousness of the marriage is strictly checked. If there is insufficient evidence of its validity, deportation and entry ban will follow.  

Naturalisation, based on reviews, is the most acceptable immigration programme to Switzerland for natives of Russia. To obtain citizenship, you need to meet the following requirements:  

• To live in the country for more than ten years;  

• Have a valid residence permit;  

• Be of legal age;  

• Have lived in Switzerland for three of the last five years;  

• Not be involved in criminal activity;  

• Provide proof of sufficient income to live in the state. 

In order to obtain citizenship under one of the immigration programmes, you must submit the legally required documents to the competent authorities. These are listed below:  

• Passport and copies of all its pages;  

• Bank statement of income;  

• Certificate of absence of debts;  

• Certificate of knowledge of one of the four state languages;  

• Birth and marriage certificates;  

• Medical certificate;  

• Permanent Resident Card;  

• Criminal record certificate. 

Testimonials from immigrants to Switzerland  

Below are reviews of immigration to Switzerland from immigrants from Russia. Thanks to them, we learn what the nuances of the implementation of resettlement programmes in this state are and what to expect from living there.  

‘I moved from Russia to Switzerland to my wife after getting married. The immigration process was quite simple. I did not experience any difficulties when applying for a residence permit under the family restoration programme. I renewed it once, as I was issued it for two years at once, and then it was re-issued for three. After immigrating from Russia, it is a pleasure to live here. I work as a marketer in a local company and receive almost 5000 francs. It is quite enough for a carefree life after immigration. Three weeks ago I applied for Swiss citizenship. I applied, had an interview, and five months later I was issued a Swiss passport. I am glad to leave a review for other Russians who want to move here!’

Victor, 32, marketing specialist. 

‘Getting a job in Switzerland for immigration was not easy. I had five interviews, and I didn’t get the best position. But the salary here is much higher than in Russia, so I can’t complain. I have been living here for four years now. I can say that the country is wonderful and it is very cool to live here. You can feel the care for the citizens in everything: smooth roads, no rubbish on the streets, food prices are high but stable. It is quite expensive to rent a flat here, I pay 1500 francs, but with a salary of 4200 it is normal. I am happy with immigration from Russia. Here I quickly improve my qualifications and have a good life.’

Sergey, 29, financial analyst.  

Judging by the feedback, Russians remain satisfied with moving to Switzerland. The processes of obtaining residence permit and citizenship under any immigration programme are easy, and the quality of life in the state is very high. Consequently, Switzerland is a viable option for those wishing to leave Russia for a country where, according to reviews, there are more opportunities to improve living conditions and development.