Final steps of swiss Naturalization - Timeline after SEM Payment Fr 100

Hello everyone,

I’m in the final stage of my Swiss naturalization process. I recently received the bill from SEM and paid it on the same day. Does anyone know how long it typically takes for SEM to grant their decision or approval after payment? And once SEM approves, what’s the usual waiting time to receive the final approval? (Stadt Zürich)

Thanks in advance for any insights!

Sep 2023 - bill from SEM

Nov 2023 - silver letter

Jan 2024 - golden letter

(Kanton ZH)

1 Like

Stadt Zürich:

SEM bill - July 2024

SEM approval - Nov 2024

Golden letter - Feb 2025

How long was it from moment you applied?

SEM Bill - August 24
SEM Approval - Feb 25
Golden Letter - still waiting :frowning:
(Kanton Zürich)

My process took 19 months in total. I started in June 2023.

Thanks for your reply, did you apply from Stadt Zürich?

No, Gemeinde on Zürichsee.

I was told that once the Kanton have the “Bewilligung” from the SEM, its another 3 months BEFORE they can start the final checks, but I have seen there have been people where the process was quicker so I am not sure if they say that just to cover themselves in case there is a long wait. For me its now been over two months since they got the SEM approval and no news yet… so near, yet so far :frowning:

Between SEM fee paid - Schlussprüfung - Swiss passport the average wait time is around 7 months.