Specific requirements
Neuchâtel requires 2 years of cantonal residence and 1 year in the municipality. French (B1) is required. Processing times are among the shortest in French-speaking Switzerland.
Civics exam
The exam covers federal and cantonal institutions, history (Neuchâtel was a Prussian principality until 1848) and local geography.
Procedure and timelines
File at the Migration Service. Expect 8 to 18 months — among the fastest in French Switzerland.
Costs
Municipal: CHF 100–300 Cantonal: CHF 100–200 Federal: CHF 100 (non-EU/EFTA)
Neuchâtel is one of Switzerland's most affordable cantons for naturalization.