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Canton5 min read

Naturalization in Appenzell Outer Rhodes: complete guide

Appenzell Outer Rhodes is a Protestant half-canton of 55,000 inhabitants, known for embroidery and textile industry traditions.

Specific requirements

The canton requires 2 years of cantonal and municipal residence. German (B1) is required.

Civics exam

Covers federal and cantonal institutions, the 1597 separation from Inner Rhodes (religious reasons: AR Protestant, AI Catholic), and local traditions.

Procedure and timelines

File at the municipality, then the Citizenship Office. Expect 10 to 20 months.

Costs

Municipal: CHF 200–500 Cantonal: CHF 100–300 Federal: CHF 100 (non-EU/EFTA)