Swiss naturalisation requirements in the canton of Vaud

Main requirements

• Hold a C permit and normally have ten years of residence in Switzerland.
• Meet the residence period required in the canton and commune when applying.
• Show successful integration, including French at B1 spoken and A2 written level unless an accepted exemption applies.
• Respect public order, keep taxes in order and have no debt-enforcement issues incompatible with the application.
• Know Switzerland and the canton of Vaud and pass the knowledge test when required.

How the process works

The commune and canton first review the file. The authority checks the formal requirements, integration and familiarity with Swiss and Vaud life. Depending on the case, an interview may supplement the knowledge test.

After the communal and cantonal reviews, the file goes to the State Secretariat for Migration for federal authorisation. Vaud currently gives an indicative overall timeframe of 24 to 36 months, although each case can differ.

Before applying

Use the official Vaud website to select the correct form and confirm every supporting document. Rules and recognised language certificates can change; this page is a preparation guide, not an authority's decision.