Naturalisation: integration and the rule of law

In ordinary naturalisation, facilitated naturalisation or reinstatement, integration is demonstrated in particular through:

• Respect for public security and order.
• Respect for constitutional values.
• The ability to communicate in everyday life in a national language, orally and in writing.
• Participation in economic life or undertaking education or training.
• Encouraging and supporting the integration of a spouse, registered partner or minor children under the applicant’s parental authority.

For ordinary naturalisation, applicants must have basic knowledge of Switzerland’s geographical, historical, political and social characteristics. The cantonal authority may organise a knowledge test (art. 2 para. 2 Swiss Citizenship Ordinance). In Geneva, this assessment includes a knowledge quiz.

Easy Naturalisation helps you prepare for the quiz through its video course and individual coaching. Preparation for the integration interview complements this work.

Integration is not considered successful in particular when applicants seriously or repeatedly breach legal provisions or official decisions, or deliberately fail to fulfil significant obligations under public or private law. Certain VOSTRA entries can also prevent naturalisation.

Constitutional values include the principles of the rule of law and fundamental rights: equality between women and men, the right to life and personal liberty, freedom of conscience and belief, and freedom of expression. They also include obligations concerning military or civilian service and compulsory schooling.

Applicants must demonstrate at least B1 spoken and A2 written proficiency in a national language. Depending on schooling and education, a recognised certificate may be required. Where required, its absence makes the file incomplete. Our article on French language requirements explains the accepted evidence.

With our administrative handling service, our legal specialists support your dealings with the Swiss authorities and the preparation of a complete file.

Income, assets or third-party benefits to which applicants are entitled must cover living costs and maintenance obligations when applying and when naturalised. Social assistance received in the three years before applying or during the procedure prevents this condition from being met unless fully repaid, subject to personal circumstances recognised by law.

Applicants support their family in acquiring language skills, participating in economic life or education, and taking part in the social and cultural life of the Swiss population or other activities contributing to integration.