Before you arrive

Visa

If you are a student citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), no visa is required to enter Switzerland. You will only need a valid recognised identity document.

If you are a student citizen outside the EU or EFTA, you will need a visa. We invite you to contact the nearest Swiss Embassy to know more about the conditions.

Residence Permit

Any foreign student wishing to study in Geneva will need a residence permit which is delivered by the migration authority of the canton (OCPM: Office Cantonal de la Population et des Migrations). Depending on the country of origin (EU / EFTA countries or third countries), the conditions of grant will be different.

During your studies

Health Insurance in Switzerland

Foreign students with equivalent health coverage in their home country may be exempted from the insurance requirement in Switzerland if the insurance covers their stay in Switzerland. To do so, they must send a request to the Cantonal Administration accompanied by a written certificate from the foreign body containing all the necessary information.

You can find more information on the official website of the Swiss Confederation.

Work permission for students

EU / EFTA: Students wishing to work during their studies must apply for a work permit from the OCPM (Office Cantonal de la Population et des Migrations). This authorization allows students to work a maximum of 15 hours per week during class periods and full-time during academic vacations.

Non-European students cannot work during the first 6 months after the start of the studies or arrival on the territory. After this period, students wishing to pursue a gainful activity must apply for a work permit from the OCPM. This authorization allows students to work a maximum of 15 hours per week during class periods and full-time during academic vacations.

After your studies

Career Services

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