Hi everybody,

So this coming year I'm planning on moving to Geneva to start a Bachelor's degree and I'm from outside the EU. I read here on the university's website (http://www.unige.ch/emploi/EmploiSta.../etranger.html) that people coming from outside the EU cannot start to work until 6 months after the start of their studies. What I'm wondering is: am I able to work in an informal way (hopefully not illegally!) as an English tutor, for example? Or other informal jobs?

I'd really appreciate your advice

Can anyone comment on my situation? I'd really appreciate it

Legally, no; informally, only until you get caught! In practice, I've observed many students working as bartenders and waiters presumably despite not having their paperwork in order. This is one of those things that do happen, but need to be sorted through informal channels (you can forget about showing up at a bar and asking if they need a waiter, for instance).

Also, you should note that, even after the aforementioned six months, you will only be able to work part-time and your employment will be subject to maintaining satisfactory academic performance standards defined by UNIGE. In my experience, employers may ask for a letter from your university confirming that they're fine with you working.

Lastly, as you probably know, do bear in mind that, should you decide to attempt the jump to full-time employment afterwards, you're looking at all the hoops associated with acquiring a non-EU work permit (there are excellent threads and stickies on it on this forum already).

Good luck, and welcome to Switzerland!

Thank you very much for the info, George!