UK RETURNING RESIDENT VISA FOR RESIDENTS OF SWITZERLAND

If you are a Swiss citizen (or non-Swiss citizen) residing in Switzerland and your previous indefinite permission to enter or stay (settlement) in the UK has lapsed, you may be eligible to return to the UK for settlement under a Returning Resident visa. This visa allows individuals who previously had settlement in the UK to re-establish their residence.

UK Returning Residents Visa Application Process and Requirements for Swiss Residents

• Application from Switzerland: A Returning Resident visa application must be made from Switzerland.

• Grant of Entry Clearance: Upon a successful application, you will be granted entry clearance for settlement in the UK.

Key Requirements for a Returning Resident Visa from Switzerland

To qualify for a Returning Resident visa as a resident of Switzerland, you must satisfy the following conditions:

• Outside the UK: You must be outside the UK when you apply.

• Previous Settlement: You must have had settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK before, which has lapsed due to your absence.

• Intention to Settle: You must genuinely intend to return to the UK for settlement purposes.

• Ties to the UK: You must demonstrate that you maintained strong ties to the UK during your absence.

• Public Funds: You must not have received public funds toward the cost of leaving the UK, unless applying under the Windrush Scheme.

• General Grounds for Refusal: Your application must not fall under the general grounds for refusal.

• Under 18: If under 18, you need written consent from parents or legal guardians.

The specific requirements can vary based on individual circumstances. For tailored advice, consulting an immigration lawyer is recommended.

Maintaining Ties to the UK

When assessing your ties to the UK, the Home Office considers factors such as:

• Family ties in the UK

• Property and business connections

• Length of your original residence in the UK

• Duration of your absence from the UK

• Reasons for leaving and intending to return

• Any other relevant circumstances

Given the discretionary nature of this assessment, legal advice can help in preparing and presenting evidence effectively.

Accompanying Dependents

Dependents cannot automatically join a Returning Resident unless they independently qualify under this route or another category. Separate applications may be necessary for each family member.

Refusal and Administrative Review

There is no right of appeal if your Returning Resident visa application is refused. However, you may challenge the decision through an application for Administrative Review.

Alternative Routes

If you do not meet the Returning Resident visa requirements but have previously spent 10 years lawfully in the UK, you may consider applying under the Long Residence route upon re-entering the UK.

How Our UK Immigration Lawyers In Switzerland Can Help

Our UK immigration lawyers specialise in assisting Swiss citizens (and non-Swiss citizens) residing in Switzerland whose indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK has lapsed and wish to settle in the UK as Returning Residents. We offer:

• Expert advice on Returning Resident visa requirements.

• Assessment of your eligibility for a Returning Resident visa.

• Professional assistance with visa applications and Administrative Review processes.

• Clear and reliable immigration guidance tailored to your needs.

Contact our Returning Resident visa lawyers at +41 21 588 07 70 or complete our enquiry form for personalised support in your application process. We are committed to providing a proactive and friendly service to meet your immigration needs effectively.