Visa and work permits

Startup Visa for Founders and Employees

Status Quo

Attracting top international talent—both employees and founders—is essential for a thriving startup ecosystem. Yet Switzerland’s current visa and work permit system is not designed for the speed and flexibility today’s innovation economy demands.

For skilled professionals from third countries (non-EU/EFTA), the process of securing a work permit is slow, complex, and often unpredictable, making it harder for startups and tech companies to hire the talent they need, when they need it.

The challenge is even greater for international startup founders. Switzerland currently offers no dedicated visa or permit pathway for founders from outside the EU, creating unnecessary barriers that discourage global entrepreneurial talent from building companies here.

Change Needed

Why Switzerland Needs a Startup Visa

Simplifying work permit processes will have a direct, positive impact on Swiss innovation, startup growth, and economic competitiveness. By making Switzerland more accessible to third-country professionals, the country can:

  • Close talent gaps in key industries
  • Support faster scaling of startups and SMEs
  • Attract international founders and tech leaders
  • Boost the overall dynamism of the Swiss labor market
  • Switzerland risks falling behind and losing top talent to more startup-friendly nations

 

What We're fighting for

Suitable Solutions for Founders and Employees

Startup Visa for Founders

To keep Switzerland competitive and open to innovation, we need a work permit and visa system that reflects the realities of global entrepreneurship. At our association, we are actively working to change that.

Here’s what we’re pushing for:

  • A dedicated work and residence permit for international startup founders.
  • Clear, transparent criteria for eligibility and approval.
  • A fast, streamlined process, handled digitally, to reflect the pace of startups.
  • Collaboration with innovation support programs to ensure international founders get the backing they need.
Work Permits for International Employees

Switzerland must take measures to improve its attractiveness as a top destination for skilled workers from third countries.

At the SSA, we see the following actions as essential:

  • Set a maximum processing time of 2 weeks
  • Digitize and streamline the permit application process
  • Establish clear and consistent permit criteria
  • Recognize ESOPs as part of compensation
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