Hi All,

I (Non EU, on a tourist visa after my 24months on an Lpermit finished in May) was offered a job last week in Bern, as the result of sending my CV out to potential employers (ie. the position had not been officially advertised).

The employer was not aware about the regulations regarding the official hiring process (Swiss and EU candidates taking proirity etc.) and so I am wondering if there is actually any chance of me being able to take up this position as planned? Is the employer able to write a letter to the powers that be, stating why they need me and my (Non EU) skills in their company, despite the job position not being advertised? Has anyone else had experience with a similar situation?

Also, I know that after 24 months on an L permit, one must leave Switzerland for a year, in order to return on an L permit with the same employer. Does anyone know if this is also the case when a new employer has been found?

Any help, suggestions or insight would be much appreciated, Cheers!

What type of jobs is it? Does it require a special skill / language that you have that a Swiss/Eu cannot fulfill?

If it is just an admin job that any Swiss with a proper education can do it, then the chances of you getting the permit is 0%.

If you soon to be company is a MNC who has hired many expat, then they have no problem getting a permit for you.

Just curious, did you tell them you only have a L permit?? I just do not wish that the HR assume you have an existing B permit, thats why they promise you the job.

Good luck..

Thanks!

It's a position in a hospital, and I have already worked 2 years in Switzerland in a similar job (sadly I quit just before being eligible for a B permit- thought we were going home, until my partner got an excellent job offer)
There are Swiss/EU people who can perform this job, but they have less specialized training than myself.
And yes, as far as I know, they were fully aware that I don't actually have a work permit anymore, and would need to get a new one.