Permit C - right to return

henryviii · #1 21.04.2009, 23:41

Hi All,
I have a question that I didn't find the answer to yet.
I have a C permit which was issued in 2007. If I leave CH to live in a different country for a short time, say 18 months in a non EU country, am I able to return without reapplying for a permit? If so, would I get my C permit back?
Thanks for any help.

jrspet · #2 21.04.2009, 23:59

There are 2 reasons only you can leave and they (your Gemeinde ) will keep it for you:

1. You study abroad
2. You work abroad

The will only keep it for max. 2 years, not a day longer! You will also have to provide enough proof and various other things that you have a genuine contract.

The WILL NOT keep it for you if you are immigrating and don't know if you might turn back.

#3 22.04.2009, 00:10

	Quote:	henryviii
	I have a C permit which was issued in 2007. If I leave CH to live in a different country for a short time, say 18 months in a non EU country, am I able to return without reapplying for a permit? If so, would I get my C permit back?

Leave nothing to chance or 3rd party hearsay, ask at the Stadthaus in Zurich. I left once and asked how long I could remain in the States without loosing my "C" which I had at that time about as long as you have now. I was told I needed to apply for an extension (for stays over 6 months) before leaving the country. I got my reply by mail the day before I left (really..!), the answer was NO extension. The reason given was the fact that they felt I had not been in possession of the "C" long enough but what exactly constituted as "long enough" was never mentioned.

NotAllThere · #4 22.04.2009, 07:45

Otoh, I know people on B permits, who have had the clock stopped, while they're on secondment outside the EU for over a year. I guess if you're going on business, and your employer has clout, the situation could be different.

henryviii · #5 22.04.2009, 08:08

Hi All thanks for the info. We have the C permits for 2 years and are now lookng at the possibility of a 2 yr secondment. Will be sure to check with Stadthouse. Seems that we must be sure of any cutoff timewise.
Cheers!

Scott · #6 22.04.2009, 08:10

Please let us know what you find out at the city hall so others in the same
situation can benefit from the answers you receive.

ticino · #7 22.04.2009, 08:16

	Quote:	henryviii
	Hi All, I have a question that I didn't find the answer to yet. I have a C permit which was issued in 2007. If I leave CH to live in a different country for a short time, say 18 months in a non EU country, am I able to return without reapplying for a permit? If so, would I get my C permit back? Thanks for any help.

As long as you keep a residence in CH, you could also leave without telling anyone.... I did so for 12 months once. Only real downside is that you need to keep your Swiss health insurance and have to file a tax return.