Practice area

Immigration law

Legal consultations with lawyers in every area of law.

Immigration law

Residence permits, family reunification, naturalisation, removal proceedings: immigration law shapes entire aspects of daily life — working, housing, living with your family. Rules differ according to your nationality (EU/EFTA or third countries) and every file has its specifics.

Decisions in this area (Geneva’s cantonal population office, State Secretariat for Migration) can be appealed, but within strict deadlines. A consultation helps anticipate obstacles, strengthen an application intelligently or react in time to an unfavourable decision.

The Geneva Legal Advice Service can advise you notably on:

EU residence permits (L, B, G permits)
FNA residence permits (F, N, S permits, etc.)
Settlement permit (C and Ci permits)
Family reunification
Visas
Facilitated naturalisation
Ordinary naturalisation
Expulsion

Frequently asked questions

My permit was refused or not renewed: what now?

Every negative decision states an appeal route and deadline — often 30 days. The appeal must be reasoned and documented; certain elements (length of stay, integration, family in Switzerland) carry significant weight. Do not wait until the deadline to seek advice: an appeal prepared in a rush loses quality.

What are the conditions for family reunification?

They depend on your status (B or C permit, citizenship) and your family members’ nationality: suitable housing, sufficient resources, deadlines depending on children’s age. An early review of the file avoids refusals on formal or timing grounds.

Can I apply for Swiss naturalisation?

Ordinary naturalisation generally requires a settlement permit (C) and integration criteria (language, participation in economic life or education). Facilitated naturalisation exists notably for spouses of Swiss citizens. The required years of residence vary by situation — review your position before filing.

General information for guidance only, not a substitute for individual legal advice. Every situation deserves its own analysis — that is what the consultation is for.