In order to apply for simplified naturalisation the correct application form must be requested from the relevant Swiss mission. In addition to the application a questionnaire must be completed and, depending on the case, registry office certificates must be enclosed. The Swiss mission checks the application after it is submitted. Applicants over the age of 18 must visit the Swiss Embassy for a personal interview to allow their connections to Switzerland as well as their knowledge in Swiss geography, history, politics, culture etc. to be assessed.

Following this, the full application is forwarded to the Federal Department of Justice and Police which, as the Department responsible for simplified naturalisations, takes the final decision.

The total costs, depending on the relevant article, age of the applicants and submitted documents, must be paid when the application is submitted.

In all cases the procedure tends to be relatively long, since every application from around the world is dealt with by the same office. You should therefore be prepared to wait for up to two years. Please do not make inquiries with the Swiss mission or directly with the authorities in Switzerland during this period.

The decision together with its date of entry into force are sent to the applicant via the relevant Swiss mission. Once the applicant has been naturalised, he/she will have to register with the Swiss mission competent for his/her place of residence.