Switzerland, renowned for its stunning landscapes, high quality of life, and strict naturalization process, is home to a significant expatriate population. However, acquiring Swiss citizenship has traditionally been a challenging and lengthy process. Now, two political groups are pushing for reforms that could simplify the path to citizenship, particularly for long-term expats, through a proposed referendum.
Switzerland’s current naturalization process requires foreign nationals to have lived in the country for 10 years, a requirement seen as restrictive by many. With around a quarter of Switzerland’s population being foreign nationals, this high hurdle has sparked criticism. Aktion Vierviertel and Operation Libero, two political organizations, aim to address this issue with a referendum designed to streamline the naturalization process. The proposal includes reducing the naturalization residency requirement from 10 years to just 4 years for those who have lived in the country, regardless of their legal status.
The initiative seeks to foster inclusivity and democratic participation by enabling all residents to engage fully in the political and social life of Switzerland. The two groups argue that granting citizenship would help integrate foreign nationals and give them the right to vote and participate in decision-making processes. They also believe that the current policy, which does not automatically grant citizenship to children born in Switzerland, is outdated and in need of reform.
The Swiss naturalization system is considered one of the most restrictive in Europe. As an example, many long-term residents face challenges obtaining citizenship due to the complex requirements, such as language proficiency, cultural integration, and passing a difficult naturalization exam. Under the new proposal, the process would become more accessible, offering a quicker and more inclusive approach to citizenship.
Currently, there are two paths to Swiss citizenship: the ordinary path, based on residency, and the simplified path, which is available for individuals married to Swiss citizens. For most, obtaining citizenship means having a residence permit for at least 10 years, attending language classes, passing the naturalization test, and demonstrating integration within the community.
Switzerland’s naturalization process is decided on three levels: federal, cantonal, and municipal. The canton or municipality plays a significant role in determining whether an applicant is granted citizenship, and in some cases, local residents vote on the matter. While some municipalities have adopted a more streamlined approach, the process can still be costly, with application fees ranging from 800 to 3,600 Swiss francs.
Canton Zurich has led the way in simplifying the process, with voters recently approving a proposal to standardize the naturalization test for all applicants. Previously, each town in the canton had its own set of questions, but now there is a uniform test, making the process more consistent and fair for all applicants.
Becoming a Swiss citizen comes with a range of benefits. Swiss citizens enjoy visa-free travel to 172 countries, including all Schengen area nations. They also benefit from Switzerland’s world-class healthcare and banking systems. Additionally, Switzerland allows dual nationality, although some countries may require nationals to renounce their original citizenship.
While the proposed referendum is still in progress, its success could make it easier for more expatriates to call Switzerland home, and offer them the opportunity to fully integrate into Swiss society.
