Canton5 min read

Naturalization in Appenzell Inner Rhodes: complete guide

Appenzell Inner Rhodes is Switzerland's least populous canton (16,000 inhabitants) and still practices the Landsgemeinde — an open-air assembly where citizens vote by show of hands.

Specific requirements

AI requires 2 years of cantonal residence. German (B1) is required. Local integration is strongly weighted in the decision.

The Landsgemeinde

Naturalization must be approved by the Landsgemeinde (last Sunday of April) or the Great Council, making the process unique in Switzerland.

Procedure and timelines

File at the cantonal chancellery. Expect 12 to 36 months depending on the Landsgemeinde schedule.

Costs

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