Migration to Uri – working and living in the canton

This information is intended for nationals from third countries outside the EU and EFTA who wish to take up employment with a company in the Canton of Uri. Taking up employment requires formal authorisation, the requirements for which are examined on an individual basis.

The admission of third-country nationals to the Swiss labour market requires an overall economic interest, whereby in particular the labour market situation, sustainable economic development and the ability to integrate must be taken into account. The application for authorisation must be submitted by the employer; applications from employees cannot be considered. The legal requirements pursuant to Art. 20-25 FNIA must be met, in particular with regard to quotas, priority for Swiss nationals and the obligation to register jobs. In addition, the local‑ and industry-standard wage and working conditions must be observed and documented. As a rule, residence permits are only issued to qualified workers, and they must have accommodation that meets their needs.

Employer must provide evidence:

• No suitable national or EU/EFTA applicant was found
• The position was advertised on the Swiss labour market
• Wages and working conditions correspond to industry standards

Employer must submit:

• Application B1
• Copy of valid passport
• Current extract from the criminal records of your home country (not older than 3 months)
• Copy of employment contract (dated and signed by both parties)
• Justification by the employer for the need for foreign labour
• Proof of recruitment efforts in Switzerland and the EU/EFTA
  • Job advertisement at the RAV (www.job-room.ch) and at EURES
  • Dated job advertisements from print or online media
  • List of applicants with detailed information (nationality, education/qualifications, date of application and reason for rejection)
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Proof of qualifications such as diplomas and job references
• Proof of language skills, if available
• Copy of the tenancy agreement or purchase contract for residential property

Power of attorney (for representation by a third party)

Highly qualified third-country nationals can take up employment as an employee by submitting a formal application to the Uri Office for Labour and Migration. Both labour market and migration law aspects are examined. Authorisation can only be granted if both reviews are positive.

Authorisation type:

• Permit B: Residence permit for long-term employment

Short stay (L permit): depending on the case and contract duration

Third-country nationals are not automatically entitled to a residence permit. Even if the criteria are met, the licence may be refused. Authorisations are generally only granted to persons with particular professional or economic potential.

There is no simplification for short-term gainful employment – every activity is subject to authorisation. The immigration of family members is possible to a limited extent, for example, if integration is assured and there is sufficient income.