How Swiss Nationals and Residents Can Quickly Settle in the UK

In This Article:

1. UK Settlement Routes for Swiss Nationals and Residents

2. Settle in the UK After 2 Years

3. Settle in the UK After 3 Years

4. Settle in the UK After 5 Years

5. Settlement Routes for Those Already in the UK

6. Settlement Based on Long Residence

7. Applying for British Citizenship

8. Contact Our Immigration Barristers

1. UK Settlement Routes for Swiss Nationals and Residents

Swiss nationals and residents often inquire about the fastest ways to settle in the UK. Whether you’re looking to relocate for work, business, or family reasons, understanding the available immigration routes can help you achieve Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK efficiently.

This article outlines some of the quickest pathways for Swiss citizens and residents looking to settle in the UK, including options for those already residing there.

2. Settle in the UK After 2 Years

The quickest route to ILR is through the Accelerated Settlement option for Tier 1 Investors, requiring an investment of at least £10 million.

Note: The Tier 1 Investor visa is no longer open to new applicants. However, if you already hold this visa, you can still extend your stay or apply for ILR under the accelerated route until 17 February 2028.

Dependents of Tier 1 Investors are not eligible for accelerated settlement and must complete five years of residence in the UK.

3. Settle in the UK After 3 Years

Swiss nationals may qualify for settlement after three years through the following categories:

• Global Talent Visa: For individuals endorsed by prestigious UK bodies like the Royal Society, British Academy, or Arts Council England.

• Innovator Founder Visa: For entrepreneurs endorsed by approved UK bodies who meet specific business achievement criteria.

  
  

While the Tier 1 Investor and Entrepreneur visas previously offered three-year settlement options, these routes are now closed to new applicants. However, current visa holders can still apply for ILR within specific deadlines.

4. Settle in the UK After 5 Years

Most settlement routes require a minimum of five years’ residence in the UK, including:

• Skilled Worker Visa

• Scale-up Visa

• Spouse or Partner Visas

• UK Ancestry Visa

• Global Talent Visa (exceptional promise endorsement)

• Hong Kong (BNO) Visa

Swiss nationals seeking to relocate for employment, family, or ancestry purposes can explore these options to meet the five-year requirement.

5. Settlement Routes for Those Already in the UK

If you’re already in the UK on a valid visa, you may be eligible to combine time spent across different visa categories to meet the settlement requirements. For example:

• Time spent on a Skilled Worker Visa can be combined with time on a Global Talent Visa or Innovator Visa to qualify for ILR.

• However, certain routes, like the Spouse Visa or Innovator Visa, require the full qualifying period to be spent in that category.

  
  

6. Settlement Based on Long Residence

For Swiss residents who have lived in the UK for 10 continuous years under any combination of visas (excluding visitor visas), the Long Residence route allows for settlement. This pathway is especially useful for those who have switched between different visa categories.

7. Applying for British Citizenship

Swiss nationals who have achieved ILR may apply for British citizenship. The required period depends on your settlement route:

• A minimum of five years, with the final year free from immigration restrictions.

• If married to a British citizen, you may apply after three years, immediately following ILR.

  
  

8. Contact Our Immigration Lawyers in Switzerland

For tailored advice on settling in the UK as a Swiss national or resident, contact our expert immigration lawyers in Switzerland on +41 21 588 07 70 or get in touch via our contact form.

We specialise in helping Swiss individuals and families navigate UK immigration processes with efficiency and clarity.