As an international student in Switzerland students are legally allowed to work for not more than 15 hours per week (i.e. around 2 hours per day.) During the vacation period they may work full-time provided they have been living in the country for at least 6 months. They average pay is between 20 CHF – 26 CHF an hour, which would mean they can easily cover their living expenses. Typical job options available include those as a teaching assistant in universities or lab assistants etc.
- In order to get the residency extension after expiry of the student visa, student will have to prove their residence in Switzerland, i.e. where they plan on staying as well as a degree completion certificate and enough funding to back one.
- In order to get the Swiss Work Permit, non-EU students will have to find a Swiss Employer, who in turn will apply for the work permit in place of him/her.
- The extension of residency post completion of degree is given to a maximum of 6 months.
- The work permit is valid for as long as the candidate is an employee to the Swiss Job Market.
- For PR, however, a long duration of 10 years or so must spent in Switzerland to obtain it.
- The residency extension cannot be extended beyond 6 months.
- The students hunting for jobs under the extension cannot work for more than 15 hours/week.
- Student cannot come to Switzerland under a short term stay visa of 90 days and later convert or upgrade it to a student Visa.
- Student are given a maximum of 2 weeks, to report their arrival and arrange for the residence permit from the canton migration offices
- While awaiting their residency, students will be given an attestation to open a bank account and are barred from leaving the country during that period.
- Even if they have a student Visa, one can only work up to 15 hours a week during the term and full time during holidays but that too only after they have stayed in Switzerland for 6 months minimum.
- Student’s family members can’t join in Switzerland while they are still on a student visa. Only foreigners holding a PR can do so, or in exceptional circumstances such as holding confederation grants or other academics excellence.