Applying for a residence permit without gainful activity
3. EU/EFTA permit for job searching
For whom
If you are an EU/EFTA national and wish to stay in Switzerland in search of a job, you do not need an authorization if your stay does not exceed three months. For any stay of more than three months, you must request an authorization.
What
You can apply for a short-term residence permit (L permit). This permit is valid for 12 months (364 days).
Terms
You must have:
- sufficient financial resources* to avoid the need for social assistance during your stay
- health and accident insurance covering all risks
* In principle, the financial means are deemed sufficient if they exceed the amount which would entitle a Swiss national, and possibly their family members, to receive assistance following the request of the person concerned and taking into account his personal situation. For those entitled to a pension, the financial means shall be deemed sufficient if they exceed the amount entitling a Swiss national who so requests, and possibly his family members, to supplementary benefits due to old-age, survivors and invalidity insurance.
You must have a personal e-démarches account to be able to file your application online.
Attachments
- form M - only for postal mail requests
- colour copy of a valid I.D.
- copy of the lease or attestation of the landlord established with form AL (with copy of the main lease and I.D. of the landlord and the sub-tenant)
- evidence of sufficient financial resources
Price
For online applications, payment is made online as well.
For applications sent by post, payment is made by invoice.
Processing times
Processing times can be consulted on this page: Délais de traitement moyens des demandes déposées à l'OCPM | ge.ch
Help to fill in the online form
See our fact sheet: Practical help to announce your arrival in Geneva online or to apply for a residence permit with or without activity at the OCPM | ge.ch
Your application can be done either online or by postal mail.