Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Burgdorf

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Burgdorf, Switzerland

5 people in their team
English
Clivia Wullimann & Partner is a Switzerland-wide law firm based in Grenchen, offering expert guidance across corporate and commercial matters, real estate and construction law, family and inheritance issues, and civil process and notarial services. The firm supports private individuals, small and...
AS SEEN ON

1. About Golden Visa Law in Burgdorf, Switzerland

In Burgdorf, a town in the canton of Bern, there is no nationwide “Golden Visa” program. Switzerland does not offer a generic investor visa for passive wealth alone. Residency for non-Swiss nationals is primarily tied to work, self-employment, family reunification or other individual eligibility under federal and cantonal rules.

In practice, wealthy applicants may pursue residency through economic means or entrepreneurship, but approvals depend on both federal law and cantonal decisions. Cantonal migration offices in Bern assess investment or business plans, job creation, and the applicant’s overall economic impact before issuing permits such as B (temporary) or C (settlement) status. It is essential to work with a Burgdorf-based lawyer who understands local practice and the SEM's national framework.

Source: State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) explains that Switzerland does not operate a general investor visa; residency is granted through standard categories based on employment, self-employment or family ties, with cantonal and federal review. sem.admin.ch

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Scenario-based legal help is often crucial when pursuing residency through economic means in Burgdorf. A local attorney can translate federal requirements into a practical plan and coordinate with cantonal authorities.

  • A founder plans to establish a Swiss company in Burgdorf and seeks a self-employment or business-based permit. A lawyer can prepare the business plan, demonstrate economic viability, and meet local documentation standards to satisfy the cantonal authority.
  • Two investors wish to qualify for a residence permit through substantial capital and job creation. A lawyer can structure the investment, document source of funds, and align the plan with Bern canton expectations regarding economic impact.
  • A non-EU family member requires family reunification. An attorney can ensure all family-based criteria are met, gather required documents, and handle potential pathway to a B or C permit.
  • A Burgdorf employer wants to hire a non-EU expert when local talent is scarce. An immigration solicitor helps with permit applications, employer declarations, and any labor market test when relevant.
  • A long-term resident seeks to transition from a temporary B permit to a permanent C permit. Legal counsel can map timelines, document eligibility, and prepare a transition file for submission.
  • You face potential changes in status due to divorce, relocation, or changes in employment. A lawyer can assess risk, preserve eligibility, and guide you through required steps to maintain residence rights.

Engaging a Burgdorf-based legal professional helps ensure compliance with both federal standards and Bern cantonal procedures, reducing delays and improving the chance of approval. A local attorney can also coordinate with the Swiss tax, social security, and health-insurance obligations that arise with residency changes.

3. Local Laws Overview

Swiss residency rules are shaped by federal law and cantonal regulations. In Burgdorf, practitioners rely on a core federal framework and Bern cantonal rules to determine eligibility for B, C, and L permits tied to work, self-employment, or family ties.

Key federal statute: The Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration (AIG/AUFENTHALTSG) provides the overall structure for residence permits, including categories such as B, C and L and the general criteria for stay and integration. This act is supplemented by implementing ordinances and SEM guidance. SEM - Residence permits

Cantonal context: The Canton of Bern applies its own migration and residency regulations within the federal framework. Local authorities assess economic viability, housing, health coverage, and public interest when considering investment- or business-based residency requests. For Burgdorf residents, the Migrationsamt Bern local office is the point of contact for procedural steps and document checks. Bern Canton Migration

Recent changes and considerations: Swiss residency policy continues to emphasize due diligence on source of funds, economic impact, and integration readiness. Applicants should expect a multi-stage review, including financial audits and business plan evaluation. Always verify current canton-specific requirements just before filing.

Notes on sources: For authoritative guidance, consult SEM and the official cantonal resources. The following are commonly used references for residents and counsel in Burgdorf: SEM and ch.ch - Immigration and residence permits.

Source: Swiss federal guidance on residence permits and cantonal administration considerations can be found on SEM’s official site and the national government portal. ch.ch - Immigration and residence permits

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basic path to residency for high net worth individuals in Burgdorf?

There is no universal Golden Visa. Residency typically requires a work offer, self-employment plan, or family ties and is evaluated under federal and cantonal rules. An attorney helps align your plan with Bern’s local requirements.

How do I start the process for a Burgdorf investment-based permit?

Begin with a detailed business plan, proof of funds, and a clear economic impact statement. Engage a Burgdorf lawyer to prepare documents and liaise with the Migrationsamt Bern and SEM.

Do I need a Swiss address to apply for a permit in Burgdorf?

Yes. You will typically need a physical address in Switzerland to establish housing and demonstrate integration potential. A local attorney can help arrange compliant housing documentation.

What documents are commonly required for a self-employed route in Bern?

Common documents include a comprehensive business plan, proof of funds, CV and references, health insurance coverage, and a detailed explanation of job creation or business viability.

How long does a Burgdorf residency application typically take?

Processing times vary by case complexity and volume at the cantonal office. Expect several months for initial assessment and additional months for final approval after submission to SEM.

Is a non-EU national eligible for permanent residency in Burgdorf?

Non-EU nationals can obtain permanent status (C permit) after extended lawful residence, usually via a sequence of permits and integration milestones, not merely by investment alone. Legal counsel can map a compliant timeline.

What are the cost ranges for hiring a Golden Visa lawyer in Burgdorf?

Fees vary by case complexity, but you should budget for an initial consultation, document preparation, correspondence with authorities, and potential translator costs. A fixed-fee arrangement may be possible for defined work packages.

How is the Bern cantonal assessment different from federal requirements?

The cantonal part focuses on local impact, housing, employment, and community integration, while the federal part governs general eligibility and cross-border considerations. Lawyers coordinate both layers for a cohesive submission.

Do I need to prove job offers or business viability up front?

Yes. Demonstrating a credible economic plan, expected job creation, and funds with traceable sources increases the likelihood of approval. A specialized lawyer helps prepare this evidence.

Can a Burgdorf lawyer help with due diligence on funds and sources of wealth?

Yes. An attorney can organize financial documents, verify provenance, and prepare a transparent funding trail required by Swiss authorities and anti-money-laundering rules.

What is the difference between a B permit and a C permit in this context?

A B permit is typically temporary and renewable, while a C permit grants longer residency and a path to potential naturalization. C permits require longer residence and integration criteria to be met.

Do changes in personal circumstances affect my residency in Burgdorf?

Certain events such as marriage, divorce, or significant changes in employment can affect status. An attorney can advise on how to preserve eligibility and adjust documentation.

5. Additional Resources

  • State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) - Official federal resource on residence permits, categories, and application processes. sem.admin.ch
  • Ch.ch - Immigration and Residence Permits - National government portal with practical guidance for foreigners in Switzerland. ch.ch
  • Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE) - Official organization helping international investors understand Swiss market entry and business setup. s-ge.com

6. Next Steps

  1. Clarify your objective and eligibility in Burgdorf with a preliminary assessment from a local immigration lawyer.
  2. Gather foundational documents such as passports, birth certificates, evidence of funds, and any employment or business plans.
  3. Prepare a detailed economic and integration plan tailored to Burgdorf and Bern canton requirements.
  4. Identify a Burgdorf-based attorney with proven experience in residence and investment matters and schedule an initial consultation.
  5. Develop a milestones timeline for documentation, translation, and submission to the Bern Migration Office and SEM.
  6. Request a formal engagement letter or retainer with clear deliverables, fees, and estimated timelines.
  7. Submit the application package through the cantonal authority, with ongoing legal support for communications and potential appeals.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Burgdorf through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Golden Visa, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Burgdorf, Switzerland — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.