Hi, very useful forum and I am very glad I've found it. I am new to Switzerland problems as my company just decided to transfer me to Zurich. For now they are talking only about 3-4 months, and are applying for L permit for me.

I have 3 weeks of unused vacations. I am thinking about coming to Zurich and taking some intense German class for a couple of weeks before my work in Zurich begins. Yet I got confused about all these visas/permits stuff.

I do not need visa to come to Zurich as a tourist (US resident). If I just came for a language school (not for working afterwards), I would then need a student visa. But what about coming on a tourist visa while waiting for L permit? Would they allow me to take the classes if I tell them about the application for the permit? Or shall I apply for the student visa separately - then it becomes too complicated. Plus, it seems that the student visa takes longer than L permit, so it won't work anyway.

Thanks in advance for any comments,
PippiL

I actually asked this question of the Chicago consulate a while back. As it turns out, you do not need any kind of visa to take German lessons while on your 3-month tourist stay (I'm currently doing the same). So basically, come over here and take the lessons if you like, but as I understand it, you'll have to go back to pick up your visa AFTER the permit is issued.

At least, that's my understanding. ;-)

Yes, I now can confirm that. I've finally reached a swiss consulate and they told me that if I am a green card holder or US citizen, I can visit and study in Switzerland short-term (under 3 months) w/out any visa. That settles it :-))

PippiL