Leaving France to live in Switzerland: the B permit
Are you a cross-border worker thinking of moving to Switzerland? You then switch from the G permit to the B permit, and several things change: health insurance, tax, paperwork. Here are the essentials.
In short
- Register with your new municipality within 14 days of arriving.
- A B permit for an EU citizen is valid for 5 years, then renewable.
- You have 3 months to take out Swiss health insurance.
Which permit for which contract
| Your employment contract | Permit |
|---|---|
| Permanent, or at least 1 year | B permit, valid for 5 years, extended by 5 years if the conditions are met |
| More than 3 months and less than 1 year | L permit (short stay) |
| After 5 years of regular residence (citizens of France and many European countries) | C permit (settlement), if the conditions are met |
The steps, in order
- Tell your employer that you are moving: your status and your tax will change.
- Register with the municipality of your new home within 14 days of arriving, with your ID, your employment contract and your lease.
- Take out Swiss health insurance within 3 months of arriving. You are covered during this period.
- Inform France: your health insurance fund if you had chosen the French option, and the tax office about your change of address.
What changes for you
| Topic | Cross-border worker (G permit) | Resident (B permit) |
|---|---|---|
| Health insurance | Choice between Switzerland and France | Swiss insurance compulsory |
| Tax | Depends on the canton where you work, in Switzerland or in France | In Switzerland, where you now live |
| Unemployment | Paid by France | Paid by Switzerland |
| Weekly return home | Compulsory, to France | No longer required |
Before you decide: compare your whole budget. Rent and health insurance are often much more expensive in Switzerland, but the commute disappears. Our car cost calculator helps you work out how much you would save.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a B permit valid for a French citizen?
5 years for a permanent contract or one of at least 1 year. It is extended by 5 years if the conditions are still met.
When can you get the C permit?
French citizens, like those of many European countries, can get it after 5 years of regular, uninterrupted residence in Switzerland, if the conditions are met.
How soon do you need to take out Swiss health insurance?
Within 3 months of arriving in Switzerland. You are covered during this period.
Useful links
Sources: SEM, B permit EU/EFTA · SEM, C permit EU/EFTA · ch.ch, health insurance · Richmond Chambers, from the G permit to the B permit