Work in Switzerland for international new graduates

Non-Swiss students wishing to continue living in Switzerland to seek employment after graduation must contact the Migration Office of the Canton where they intend to live during the job search.

All international students who have completed a university degree programme in Switzerland are entitled to apply for an L permit for a maximum duration of 6 months for job search purposes (not internships). If during their studies at USI the foreign student has benefited from an exemption from the obligation of medical-healthcare insurance, it is important to note that this exemption expires upon graduation. Therefore, the student becomes subject to the obligation of health insurance coverage in Switzerland (KVG/LAMal).

If an alumnus/-a  finds a job within the six-month period, it is the employer's responsibility to inform the Migration Office of the start of employment and to request a work permit. However, if no job is secured, the L permit will expire and cannot be renewed. In such a case, the alumnus/-a must leave the country unless they have obtained legal permission to stay in Switzerland.

Are you a USI new graduate, coming from an EU/EFTA country and looking to work in Switzerland? Check the following documents/links for more information:

• EU and EFTA nationals: FAQ
   

Are you a USI new graduate, coming from a non-EU/EFTA country, and looking to work in Switzerland? Check the following documents/links for more information:

• Guidelines for admission to work in Switzerland under international agreements for trainee exchanges (in accordance with Article 30 of the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act and Article 42 of the Ordinance on Admission, Residence, and Employment)
• Exchange agreements for young professionals (trainees) in Switzerland: information
• FAQ - Administrative aspects of work permits for young professionals from Non-EU/EFTA countries
• Non-EU/EFTA citizens: information and procedures