Applying for a residence permit for my family (family reunification)

8. Access to employment for family members

For whom

Spouses and children of foreign nationality of:

  • a Swiss person
  • a person holding a B or C permit, or
  • a national of an EU/EFTA Member State holding an L permit

have the right to work if they have a valid family reunification permit. They don't have to do anything.

Non-European spouses of a non-European person holding an L permit who obtain a residence permit (L permit) by family reunification must obtain authorization to pursue gainful activity.

Terms

Only for non-European persons holding an L permit obtained under family reunification.

The usual working and wage conditions in the sector mus be respected. Regular pay conditions can be obtained using the online salary calculator.

It should be noted that an employer who applies for a permit also undertakes to comply with the statuory withholding tax requirements.

The employer must wait for the confirmation of the OCPM before starting the gainful activity of his employee. Authorization shall be granted only if the Directorate of Foreign Labour of the OCIRT has accepted the application.

Attachments

Only for non-European persons holding an L permit obtained under family reunification.

  • form K duly completed, dated and signed by both parties (with company stamp)
  • Colour copy of a valid ID
  • Employer's cover letter
  • Work contract signed by both parties
  • CV and copy of diplomas

Price

Payment is made by invoice.

See our Taxes and fees table

In addition, the examination of the application by the OCIRT is also subject to a fee (article 12 Raletr) charged by this service to the employer

Processing times

Processing times can be consulted on this page: Délais de traitement moyens des demandes déposées à l'OCPM | ge.ch

Apply for work authorization

The application must be sent by postal mail.

Last updated
14 July 2025

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