Hi everybody,

I moved to Zurich from Germany in order to commence PhD studies in July. When applying for the permit at the Kreisbuero, I showed them a letter from my University saying that I will be PhD student, doing fully funded studies in my first year (September 2009 to August 2010) and will be employee of the university afterwards (Sept. 2010 until expectedly end of 2013).

They gave me a EG/EFTA L-permit, valid to end-June 2010 (!!!). This is more than surprising, because it doesn't even cover the first year of my studies. I mean... WTF?! All other PhD students I know got a B permit for one year. Even some master students I know from St. Gallen and Zurich have a B permit.

Is there any way how I can change it to a B-permit or something I can do to optimize chances for the next permit to be a B one?


Best,
sc

Lots of PhD students have L permits these days.

Perhaps the regulations changed quite recently, but I think in order to necessitate a B permit, you need a contract that clearly employs you for over 3 years. They can award them for shorter contracts if they feel like it, but I didn't get one. Neither did lots of other PhD students.

Aside from having to return to the office every year to renew it, it's not really a problem, but if it really bothers you, perhaps have your institute secretary call them to see what your particular buro they want in exchange for a B. She can re-write your contract as necessary and maybe they'll "upgrade" you next year.

I had a German roommate who also had the same problem. To make a long story short, when the lady offered him the L permit, he kindly said there must be some mistake, that he is an EU PhD student so he should have a B. After some discussion, the woman refused to call anybody, so he simply refused to take the permit He took back his money and left. He then contacted some people (not sure who) in the immigration office, as well as trying to get the ETH to support him and call on his behalf. In the end they gave him a B permit. I think if you kick and scream enough you might just get the correct permit. As he tried to explain to them, getting any sort of contract here is next to impossible with an L permit.
If you'd like, send me a PM and I can give you his email address/phone number. Perhaps he can help you with who you should contact.
Good luck!!!!

I also have a L permit being an EU PhD student. The association of PhD students and postodc at ETH, AVETH, *says* they try to help, I just wrote to them yesterday but have not received an answer yet.

Interesting. I am waiting for my L permit to be renewed, if I get another L, even though I asked for a B, I'll try to do like your friend .

Not true. I have never had any problems with mine... which is why i don't see why i should want a B.

Is *is* easier to find a flat with a B, this I have experienced. And I am sure there are other things that would benefit from having a B.