Switzerland EU/EFTA self-employment in 2026
EU/EFTA citizens can move to Switzerland for genuine self-employment under the free-movement framework.
The applicant must register with the commune within 14 days of arrival and apply for the relevant residence permit. The authorities require identity documentation and evidence that the person is, or will be, genuinely self-employed and able to support themselves and their family.
Examples of useful evidence can include commercial-registration material, contracts, invoices, accounting records, business premises or other documents showing an actual independent activity. The exact file is handled by the competent canton.
Qualifying self-employed EU/EFTA residents generally use a B EU/EFTA permit, normally valid for five years. Company formation alone does not prove immigration eligibility: the authorities assess the real activity.
Short cross-border service provision can instead fall under the notification procedure, while people living abroad and commuting to Switzerland may need a G permit.
Official guidance: SEM Free Movement FAQ and ch.ch foreign-worker guidance.
Related: third-country entrepreneur/self-employment, remote work options, Switzerland hub, entrepreneur visas.
Official and supporting sources
- SEM — Free Movement FAQgovernment · accessed 2026-09-21
- ch.ch — Working as a foreign nationalgovernment · accessed 2026-09-21