Advisory Guide
The Swiss B permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung / autorisation de séjour) is a residence permit for foreign nationals living in Switzerland. Property rights under Lex Koller differ significantly depending on whether the holder is an EU/EFTA national or a non-EU/EFTA national.
Advisory disclaimer: This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always obtain independent legal advice from a qualified Swiss notary or lawyer before proceeding.
The B permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung) is a Swiss residence permit issued to foreign nationals who are legally resident in Switzerland, typically for employment, self-employment, family reunification or study. It is a temporary permit, usually valid for one year (for non-EU/EFTA nationals) or five years (for EU/EFTA nationals), and is renewable.
For Lex Koller purposes, the critical distinction is between EU/EFTA nationals holding a B permit and non-EU/EFTA nationals holding a B permit. These two groups have significantly different property rights in Switzerland.
Citizens of EU or EFTA member states who hold a valid Swiss B permit are treated as equivalent to Swiss nationals for the purposes of Lex Koller. They are fully exempt from the law's restrictions.
May acquire any residential property in Switzerland without restriction
May acquire a primary residence, secondary residence, holiday home or investment property
No cantonal authorisation required under Lex Koller
No size limits apply under Lex Koller
May acquire property in any canton — including Geneva, Zurich and Basel
Weber Act still applies to second homes (20% cap per commune)
Important: The B permit must be valid at the time of acquisition. If the permit expires and is not renewed, the exemption no longer applies. EU/EFTA nationals who leave Switzerland and lose their B permit revert to non-resident status for Lex Koller purposes.
Non-EU/EFTA nationals holding a Swiss B permit have more limited property rights under Lex Koller. They may acquire the property they use as their primary residence in Switzerland, but they remain subject to Lex Koller restrictions for other property types.
What non-EU/EFTA B permit holders may acquire:
The property they use as their primary residence in Switzerland (the property where they are registered as resident)
What non-EU/EFTA B permit holders generally may not acquire:
Secondary residences (additional residential properties beyond the primary residence)
Holiday homes (without Lex Koller authorisation)
Residential investment properties
Properties in cantons other than where they are resident (for primary residence acquisition)
Note: Non-EU/EFTA B permit holders who wish to acquire a holiday home in a designated tourist zone may apply for Lex Koller authorisation in the same way as non-residents. However, the authorisation is subject to the same conditions and quota restrictions. Specialist legal advice is essential.
B permit holders considering Swiss property acquisition should be aware of the following practical considerations:
Permit validity
The B permit must be valid at the time of acquisition and at the time of registration in the land registry. Buyers should ensure their permit will remain valid for the duration of the transaction.
Change of status
If a non-EU/EFTA B permit holder subsequently obtains a C permit, they become fully exempt from Lex Koller and may acquire additional properties without restriction.
Mortgage financing
Swiss banks and private lenders generally offer mortgage financing to B permit holders, though terms and conditions may vary. Non-EU/EFTA nationals may face additional requirements.
Tax implications
Property acquisition in Switzerland has tax implications including property transfer taxes, notarial fees and ongoing property taxes. B permit holders should obtain independent tax advice.
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Swiss Private Group advises international private clients on Swiss property acquisition. We work alongside qualified Swiss legal specialists.
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