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Canton5 min read

Naturalization in Obwalden: complete guide

Obwalden is an Alpine half-canton of 38,000 inhabitants, part of the historic canton of Unterwald, one of Switzerland's founding members.

Specific requirements

Obwalden requires 2 years of cantonal and municipal residence. German (B1) is required. With only 7 municipalities, the process is personalized.

Civics exam

Covers federal and cantonal institutions, history of Unterwald (founding canton of 1291), and Alpine geography (Engelberg, Lake Sarnen).

Procedure and timelines

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

Costs

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