Specific requirements in Valais
Beyond the 10 years of federal residence, Valais requires 2 years in the canton and 1 year in your municipality. A permit C is required in most cases.
The language of the procedure depends on your place of residence: French in Lower Valais, German in Upper Valais.
The civics exam
Valais requires a knowledge test on Swiss and Valaisian institutions, history and geography. The exam is taken in the official language of your municipality.
Requirements vary considerably from one municipality to another.
Procedure and timelines
The application is filed with your municipality. After local review, the file goes to the cantonal Civil Status and Foreigners Service (SECE), then to the SEM for non-EU/EFTA nationals.
Average processing time in Valais is 12 to 24 months.
Estimated costs
Fees vary by municipality:
Municipal: CHF 200–600 Cantonal: CHF 150–400 Federal: CHF 100 (non-EU/EFTA)
Check directly with your municipal administration.