Hiring international talent in Switzerland
Bringing international expertise into your team offers numerous benefits:
Access specialized skills: Fill gaps with professionals who provide unique expertise that may not be available locally.
Enhance innovation: Diverse perspectives boost creativity and drive innovation within your company.
Expand global reach: Employees with international backgrounds can help you tap into new markets and understand global customer needs.
How we help
We provide end-to-end solutions and tailored advice to simplify the process of obtaining work permits for your international employees.
Consultation
Work permits for employees
Whether you have specific questions about your work permit application or would like to review your options for a rejected application, book a meeting with our experts. We'll guide you through the details, explain your options and simplify the process for you.
CHF 250 per hour
Why work with us
Ensure compliance
From initial strategy to application submission, our services help to ensure full compliance with Swiss immigration procedures.
Save time
Our expert knowledge streamlines the process, so you can focus on your core business.
Increase approval chances
Our in-depth knowledge of Swiss immigration processes improves the success chances of your case.
Success-based pricing
Our motivation is to obtain a work permit in line with Swiss regulations. This is also reflected in our success-based pricing and emphasizes our commitment to results.
Success stories
Linda C.
VP of Operational Excellence, People & Culture
UNISERS AG
I highly recommend A-Link to any founder or professional seeking reliable and efficient immigration help. The team’s ability to turn a complex process into a clear step-by-step journey and their commitment to success-based pricing truly set them apart.
Cédric P.
Head of Quant Methodology
Pexapark AG
A-Link made the complex process of obtaining work permits for our international team seamless. They took care of everything, allowing us to focus on growing our business.
What are the key criteria for Swiss work permits?
The key criteria for obtaining a Swiss work permit for non-EU/EFTA nationals include:
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The position must align with the overall economic interest of Switzerland.
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The employee should possess a specialized skill or expertise
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While Swiss immigration law prioritizes domestic and EU/EFTA nationals, exceptions often apply – see the next question for more details.
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Employment must offer fair wages and conditions customary for the location, profession, and industry.
Each application is reviewed individually by Swiss authorities, who have broad discretion in their assessments. The terms in the immigration law often are not defined conclusively or in the same way by the authorities. It is always advisable to consult an immigration expert to assess your specific case.
Is labor market testing always required?
Generally, for non-EU/EFTA nationals, you must demonstrate that no suitable candidate was found within Switzerland or the EU/EFTA. However, there are certain exceptions, such as for recent graduates, highly skilled specialists or intra-company transfers.
At A-Link, we assess the best strategy for your case at the start of the process, ensuring compliance while optimizing your chances.
Employer's obligations after hiring
After a work permit is approved, employers must ensure ongoing compliance with Swiss immigration laws, including fair salary practices, working conditions and timely renewal of permits.
Application processing times
Work permit processing typically takes between 4 and 12 weeks, depending on the canton and the employee’s current residence status. Starting the process early and ensuring all documentation is complete can prevent delays.
Step-by-step procedure
01 Eligibility assessment
We assess your permit options and provide recommendations for your case.
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We review the job contract, CV and company profile to determine the work permit type.
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We provide assessments for the success factors, risks and timelines based on your case.
03 Permit application preparation
We prepare all documentation for your case.
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We prepare a detailed document checklist.
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We prepare salary benchmarking to ensure compliance with Swiss standards.
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We complete all forms and necessary letters on your behalf.
02 Navigating labor market tests
We ensure compliance with recruitment requirements, including:
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Exceptions: We assess whether your case qualifies for a simplified procedure.
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Job advertisement: We guide you through the process of advertising positions in required markets.
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Documentation: We help you understand the requirements for recording recruitment efforts.
04 Application submission and follow-up
We submit the application and manage the process:
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Acting as your representative in communications with Swiss immigration and labor authorities.
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Providing regular updates and addressing any additional requests.
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Status monitoring: Provide regular updates and promptly address any additional requests.
