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Canton5 min read

Naturalization in Nidwalden: complete guide

Nidwalden is an Alpine half-canton of 43,000 inhabitants on Lake Lucerne, famous for Arnold von Winkelried, the hero of the Battle of Sempach (1386).

Specific requirements

Nidwalden requires 2 years of cantonal and municipal residence. German (B1) is required. With 11 municipalities, the process is personalized.

Civics exam

Covers federal and cantonal institutions, history (Arnold von Winkelried at Sempach, founding canton of 1291) and local geography.

Procedure and timelines

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

Costs

Municipal/cantonal: CHF 200–450 Federal: CHF 100 (non-EU/EFTA)