SWISS DIGITAL NOMAD VISA

Switzerland has long been recognised for its high standard of living, political and economic stability, modern infrastructure, and central location in Europe. These qualities, combined with its natural beauty and access to outdoor pursuits, make it an attractive destination for digital nomads, location-independent professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking a base in Europe. However, those researching a "Swiss digital nomad visa" will find that, as of 2025, Switzerland has not implemented a visa scheme specifically tailored to the needs of remote workers.

Nonetheless, it is possible to live and work remotely from Switzerland—lawfully—by navigating existing immigration routes and ensuring compliance with Swiss legal requirements.

Richmond Chambers Switzerland supports digital nomads and internationally mobile professionals by identifying viable immigration options, coordinating applications, and advising on tax, social security, and relocation compliance. Our integrated service ensures a lawful and sustainable relocation to Switzerland.

No Dedicated Swiss Remote Work Visa Scheme

Unlike some other European countries—including Portugal, Spain, Estonia, Croatia, and Italy—Switzerland has not adopted a dedicated digital nomad visa scheme. These other jurisdictions have introduced remote worker visas or freelance residence permits designed to attract international professionals who wish to live in their territories while working for overseas clients or employers. In contrast, Swiss immigration law does not currently provide a category specific to remote work.

Instead, digital nomads seeking to relocate to Switzerland must rely on existing immigration categories designed for tourists, business visitors, employed persons, the self-employed, and financially independent individuals. The applicability of any given category depends on multiple factors, including the applicant’s nationality, length of intended stay, type and source of income, and whether any business activity will take place in Switzerland.

Swiss authorities distinguish between authorised short stays and long-term residence, and between passive presence and gainful activity. Remote workers whose activities have no direct impact on the Swiss labour market may, in certain cases, be permitted to stay temporarily or obtain residence under specific conditions. Each case is assessed individually, and legal compliance is essential.

Immigration Options for Digital Nomads in Switzerland

Short-Term Stay as a Tourist or Business Visitor

Many digital nomads begin their stay in Switzerland under the Schengen short-stay framework. Nationals of visa-exempt countries—including EU/EFTA states, the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others—may enter Switzerland without a visa and remain for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. Nationals of countries subject to visa requirements must apply in advance for a Schengen Type C visa.

Under Swiss law, engaging in gainful activity during a short-term visit is prohibited unless explicitly authorised. Gainful activity includes salaried employment, self-employment, and services performed for remuneration. However, Swiss immigration authorities generally tolerate EU nationals undertaking remote work for a foreign employer during short stays, provided that:

• No clients or economic beneficiaries are located in Switzerland;

• The individual does not enter into Swiss commercial relationships;

• The activity is incidental to the visit and does not involve integration into the Swiss labour market.

While remote work for a non-Swiss employer may not trigger a work permit requirement during a short visit, any extended or repeat stays may raise compliance issues. Immigration authorities may question the nature of the activities or the pattern of visits, particularly if the individual appears to be living in Switzerland without legal residence status. Importantly, after 90 days, visitors must leave Switzerland unless authorised to remain under a residence permit.

Long-Term Residence for EU and EFTA Nationals Working Remotely from Switzerland

EU and EFTA nationals benefit from the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons, which grants them the right to enter Switzerland without a visa, reside for up to 90 days, and seek employment or establish self-employment. However, a residence permit is required for stays beyond 90 days or where gainful activity is undertaken.

Remote workers from EU/EFTA countries have two primary options:

• Self-Employment Residence Permit: Digital nomads who work as freelancers or independent service providers can apply for a residence permit on the basis of self-employment. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine and viable business activity, including a stable income stream, multiple clients, a credible business plan, and registration with the Swiss social security system. The business must be economically sustainable and consistent with the applicant’s professional qualifications.

  
  

• Residence Without Gainful Employment: For EU/EFTA nationals who are financially independent and do not intend to carry out gainful activity in Switzerland, residence may be granted as a person of independent means. Applicants must provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to support themselves (and any family members), valid Swiss health insurance, and a rental contract or deed for accommodation. Remote work for a foreign company may be permissible if the activity does not affect the Swiss economy.

Both permit types require registration with the local cantonal migration office, and the issuance of a B permit for a renewable period (typically one year). The cantonal authority will evaluate the credibility of the applicant’s status and may request supplementary documentation. Family members may apply for dependent permits under family reunification provisions.

Long-Term Residence Options for Non-EU/EFTA Digital Nomads

For third-country (non-EU/EFTA) nationals, the requirements for long-term residence in Switzerland are significantly stricter. Work and residence permits for third-country nationals are generally granted only in limited circumstances where the individual:

• Has specialist qualifications and experience that are in demand in Switzerland;

• Has secured employment with a Swiss company willing to act as sponsor;

• Intends to establish a business of economic value to the canton;

• Possesses substantial wealth and does not intend to engage in gainful employment.

Digital nomads who wish to relocate to Switzerland without a Swiss job offer may consider the following options:

• Business Founder or Entrepreneur Residence Permit: This route allows non-EU/EFTA digital nomads to apply for residence in Switzerland if they intend to establish a business or freelance activity that creates economic value in the canton. Applicants must submit a detailed business plan, demonstrate relevant qualifications and experience, and show proof of capital investment. The proposed business must be economically viable and offer a benefit to the local economy, such as job creation or innovation. Applications are assessed by cantonal authorities and the State Secretariat for Migration and are subject to annual quota limits. Success under this route is more likely where the applicant already has an established business or a Swiss business partner.

  
  

• Employment by a Swiss Company: Digital nomads who set up or join a Swiss-based company may be eligible to apply for a residence and work permit as an employee of that entity. To qualify, the Swiss employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Swiss or EU/EFTA national, and labour market testing is required. The business must be fully operational, with sufficient capital and infrastructure to support the role. This route is often suitable for entrepreneurs who wish to employ themselves through their own Swiss start-up, provided the company meets regulatory requirements and the position is of sufficient economic importance.

  
  

• Lump-Sum Taxation Residence: Also known as residence under the forfait fiscal regime, this option is available to financially independent third-country nationals who do not intend to undertake gainful activity in Switzerland. Applicants must negotiate a fixed annual tax liability with the host canton, usually based on a multiple of their annual living expenses. They must also provide evidence of significant wealth, secure suitable accommodation, and obtain private Swiss health insurance. While active employment or freelance work is not permitted under this route, it is suitable for passive investors or retired professionals with substantial global income.

  
  

Each of these options requires careful planning, comprehensive documentation, and compliance with both federal and cantonal regulations.

Remote Work and Swiss Immigration Compliance

Although Swiss law does not expressly prohibit remote work for foreign companies during a visit, it draws a clear and legally significant distinction between short-term, passive presence and long-term residence involving gainful activity. Foreign nationals who perform remote work while physically present in Switzerland—even for a non-Swiss employer—must understand that Swiss authorities will assess both the nature and duration of their activities. The key concern is whether the activity constitutes "gainful employment" under Swiss law, which may trigger immigration, tax, and social security obligations.

Short-term remote work during a 90-day visa-free stay may be tolerated if the work is exclusively for an overseas employer, does not involve any Swiss clients or commercial interactions, and does not integrate the individual into the Swiss labour market. However, there is no formal exemption or codified rule confirming this, and cantonal authorities have discretion to interpret and apply relevant immigration regulations. Consequently, individuals undertaking remote work—even while nominally visiting—risk breaching Swiss immigration rules if their presence becomes regular, repetitive, or economically significant.

Any foreign national who intends to remain in Switzerland for more than 90 days, whether working remotely or not, must apply for a residence permit through the appropriate cantonal authority. Working remotely while holding only tourist or business visitor status beyond the permitted duration may be considered a violation of Swiss immigration law and can lead to penalties, entry bans, or difficulties in securing future permits.

Immigration authorities take a case-by-case approach when assessing remote work activity. Factors such as whether the individual provides services to Swiss entities, receives income from within Switzerland, maintains a business presence in Switzerland, or exerts managerial control over a foreign entity from Switzerland may all influence the legal classification of their activities. Even work carried out entirely for foreign clients may be deemed gainful employment if it results in tax residency or contributes to local economic effects.

In summary, remote workers must not assume that digital work done from Swiss soil is automatically permissible. Legal advice should be sought in advance to structure one’s stay in a manner that aligns with Swiss immigration and labour laws, particularly for stays exceeding 90 days or involving repeat visits.

Tax and Social Security Considerations for Remote Workers in Switzerland

Digital nomads relocating to Switzerland must understand their potential obligations under the Swiss tax and social security systems to avoid legal and financial consequences. The following considerations are of particular importance:

• Tax Residency: Under Swiss law, an individual becomes a tax resident if they stay for more than 30 days while working or for more than 90 days without engaging in gainful activity. Once tax residency is established, individuals are taxed on their worldwide income. This includes foreign employment income, freelance income, rental income, and investment gains. Switzerland has double taxation treaties with many countries to mitigate the risk of being taxed twice, but filing and disclosure obligations remain in both jurisdictions.

  
  

• Swiss Worldwide Income Tax Rules: As a tax resident, you must declare and pay tax on income earned globally. Federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes apply, and rates vary depending on your place of residence. Individuals must submit an annual tax return, and failure to declare foreign income may result in penalties and back taxes. Proper structuring and documentation are key to managing your tax position effectively.

  
  

• Social Security for ANOBAGs: Remote workers employed by a foreign company without a Swiss presence may be classified as an ANOBAG (Arbeitnehmer ohne beitragspflichtigen Arbeitgeber). In this case, the employee is personally responsible for registering with the Swiss social security authority and paying both the employee and employer contributions. The Swiss system includes pension (AHV/AVS), disability, and other statutory benefits. In the absence of a bilateral social security agreement, the ANOBAG may face higher administrative and financial obligations.

  
  

• Health Insurance Requirements: All residents in Switzerland must obtain mandatory health insurance (LAMal) within three months of arrival. Coverage must be from an approved Swiss insurer and must include at least the minimum statutory benefits. Private international health insurance is not sufficient unless exempted. Premiums are based on age, region, and chosen policy, and failure to comply may result in retroactive premiums and administrative penalties.

  
  

• Permanent Establishment Risk: Digital nomads operating a business or holding a senior executive role in a foreign company may inadvertently create a permanent establishment (PE) in Switzerland. If Swiss tax authorities determine that a business has a fixed place of business or decision-making in Switzerland, it could trigger Swiss corporate income tax obligations for the foreign company. This is a particular concern for founders, directors, or key decision-makers working remotely from Switzerland.

  
  

Due to the complexity of these matters, digital nomads are strongly advised to seek expert legal and tax advice prior to relocating. Comprehensive planning will help ensure compliance and avoid the risk of penalties, tax audits, or permit revocation.

Recent Developments in Swiss Remote Work Policy

Switzerland has introduced new rules relating to cross-border telework for residents working for Swiss companies, reflecting a growing recognition of flexible and hybrid work models. In 2023 and 2024, Switzerland entered into multilateral agreements with several neighbouring countries to allow cross-border employees to perform up to 49.9% of their duties remotely from outside Switzerland without affecting their social security affiliation. These agreements are primarily aimed at employees of Swiss companies who live in France, Germany, or Italy and now work from home more frequently than before.

At the same time, Swiss employer associations and cantonal authorities have clarified that short-term remote work from Switzerland for a foreign employer may be permissible under existing rules, provided that the work does not involve Swiss clients or contribute economically to the Swiss labour market. This informal tolerance has been welcomed by many digital nomads who reside in Switzerland temporarily, although there is still no formal legal framework specifically regulating remote work in this context.

Switzerland continues to rely on traditional immigration categories—such as self-employment permits, residence without gainful activity, and financially independent residence—for remote professionals who wish to relocate to the country. As of 2025, there is no standalone Switzerland remote work visa, digital nomad visa, or Swiss freelancer visa. Policymakers have not yet indicated an intention to introduce a dedicated digital nomad route, and inbound remote workers must therefore continue to meet the criteria of existing immigration frameworks to obtain legal residence.

Swiss Digital Nomad Visa FAQ's

Does Switzerland have a digital nomad visa?

No, Switzerland does not currently offer a visa specifically for digital nomads. Remote workers must use existing immigration routes such as short-term stays, self-employment permits, or residence permits for financially independent individuals.

Can I work remotely from Switzerland as a tourist?

Remote work may be tolerated during a short-term visit of up to 90 days, provided the work is exclusively for foreign clients or employers and has no connection to the Swiss labour market. However, this is not formally codified and repeat visits may raise compliance concerns.

What immigration options are available to EU or EFTA remote workers?

EU and EFTA nationals can apply for a self-employment residence permit if working independently or for residence without gainful activity if financially independent. Both options require registration with cantonal authorities and fulfilment of residence conditions.

Can non-EU nationals live and work remotely from Switzerland?

Yes, but only under more restrictive conditions. Non-EU nationals may be eligible to relocate if they start a Swiss business, are employed by a Swiss company, or qualify for residence under the lump-sum taxation regime without engaging in gainful activity.

Is remote work considered gainful employment in Switzerland?

Yes, Swiss law may treat remote work as gainful employment even if the work is performed for a foreign company. Any activity that generates income while physically in Switzerland could require a residence and work permit.

Will I become tax resident in Switzerland if I work remotely?

You may become tax resident if you stay in Switzerland for more than 30 days while working or 90 days without working. As a tax resident, you are generally liable for Swiss tax on your worldwide income.

Do remote workers need to register for social security?

Remote workers employed by foreign companies with no Swiss presence must register personally with the Swiss social security system and pay both employer and employee contributions.

Is Swiss health insurance mandatory?

Yes. All residents must obtain Swiss health insurance within three months of arrival, even if they hold private international cover. Failure to do so can result in penalties and backdated premiums.

Can running a foreign business from Switzerland create tax risks?

Yes. If you are in a senior role and operate your business from Switzerland, authorities may determine that you have created a permanent establishment, potentially triggering Swiss corporate tax obligations.

How Richmond Chambers Switzerland Can Help

Richmond Chambers Switzerland advises digital nomads, remote professionals, and entrepreneurs on how to lawfully live and work remotely from Switzerland. We offer full legal and tax compliance services, helping clients:

• Choose the right immigration pathway;

• Structure business or freelance activity to meet Swiss standards;

• Avoid tax residency pitfalls;

• Navigate health insurance and social security registration.

Contact Our Swiss Immigration Lawyers

To explore your eligibility to live and work remotely from Switzerland, contact Richmond Chambers Switzerland. Our experienced immigration lawyers will assess your case and guide you through each stage of the relocation process.