Acquiring Swiss nationality
Acquiring Swiss nationality
Swiss nationality is passed on according to the principle of 'droit du sang', as in most European countries, i.e. by descent, and not according to the principle of 'droit du sol' linked to place of birth, as is the case on the American and Australian continents. Under Swiss law, nationality is therefore acquired by descent, and a child of a Swiss parent is entitled to a white cross passport from birth, or even from the moment the child is recognised by the father if the parents are not married, provided the child is still a minor at the time. To obtain the passport of their country of birth, people born in Switzerland therefore only have the option of applying for naturalisation if their parents are foreigners, provided they have a permanent residence permit and have lived in Switzerland for a total of ten years. They do, however, have a slight advantage in that the time spent in Switzerland between the ages of 8 and 18 counts double, provided that their entire stay lasted at least six years. It follows that it is not the place where you gave birth that will determine your daughter's nationality, but rather that of her father if you are married or if he recognises your child before she is 18. These conditions will be the same whether you give birth abroad or in another Swiss canton. So take precautions to make sure you get to the clinic on time, and Julie wishes you all the best for the arrival of your child!
