Hi Everyone,

This is my first post on this very informative site, so please pardon me if I'm asking a question which has already been answered elsewhere. (I searched, but couldn't find anything specific to my question)

I have taken up a job in Switzerland and my prospective employer has applied for a B-permit (Non-EU). I have been informed that the first two approvals (Canton Employment Office & Federal Authorities) have come through and the third one (OCP) is in progress.

I noticed that one of the approval letters mentions the phrase "d'autorisation de sejour a l'annee, permis B ..... (art. 18, 33 LEtr)"

My french knowledge is non-existent as of now (though I hope to start learning once I land ) and I would highly appreciate if someone could tell me if this is a short-term (annual) B permit or a long-term one.

I tried the translation services at Google & Babel Fish, but the translation also left me confused ("Authorization stay in the years enabled B ..... (article 18, 33 LEtr)" and "d' authorization of stay has l' year, allowed B ..... (Article 18,33 LEtr)")

(I can paste more information from the letters if needed)

Also, if this is indeed an annual b-permit, what are the disadvantages as compared to the long-term permit. (Apart from the 3 yrs/6 yrs limit, of course)


Thanks in advance