Stay to Seek Work After Graduation
Non-EU/EFTA graduates of Swiss universities looking for a job in their field after completing studies.
The Stay to Seek Work After Graduation is a Swiss work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee) and processing time (~2-6 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation is for
Non-EU/EFTA graduates of Swiss universities looking for a job in their field after completing studies.
Securing qualified work converts to a B/L permit, then the settlement route.
Stay to Seek Work After Graduation - eligibility criteria
- Graduate of a Swiss higher-education institution
- Job sought is of high scientific or economic interest
- Able to support oneself during the search
- Application before the existing study permit expires
Stay to Seek Work After Graduation cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation (Switzerland) is ~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee, with an indicative processing time of ~2-6 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Apply to the cantonal migration office before the study permit ends |
| Length of stay | Up to 6 months to find qualified employment |
| Work rights | Limited part-time work while searching |
| Study rights | Studies completed |
| Government fee | ~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee |
| Processing time | ~2-6 weeks |
| Route to PR | Securing qualified work converts to a B/L permit, then the settlement route. |
Pathway & next steps
Securing qualified work converts to a B/L permit, then the settlement route.
Many applicants also compare Student · Residence Permit for Study, Specialist · Admission of Highly Qualified Third-Country Workers, Permit B (non-EU) · B Permit for Third-Country Nationals (Resident Worker). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Swiss route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Stay to Seek Work After Graduation pitfalls we fix
Stay to Seek Work After Graduation - frequently asked questions
How much does the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation cost?
The Stay to Seek Work After Graduation government fee is ~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) before applying.
How long does the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-6 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation lead to permanent residence?
Securing qualified work converts to a B/L permit, then the settlement route.
Can I work on the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation?
Work rights: Limited part-time work while searching.
Who can apply for the Stay to Seek Work After Graduation?
Non-EU/EFTA graduates of Swiss universities looking for a job in their field after completing studies.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Switzerland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) - official Switzerland immigration authority