Renewing C Permit in Geneva Canton

Visas, Permits, Passports and Naturalization
1
Hi

Does anyone have any practical experience of renewing a C Permit as a British National? I assume since I got my C permit before 1st January 2021 it can be renewed. Also given I am renewing do I need to submit language certificates, it’s clear this is needed for a new C permit but not clear for a renewal.

Thank you.

2
A permit C is not renewed. You just need a new card, that's all. Unfortunately and confusingly, in English the term "permit" is applied to the id card (Carte de séjour/Ausländerausweis) as well as to the residency privileges.

Being British, EU, or something else is not really relevant once you got a permit C as it is granted "unconditionally and indefinitely". ( Art. 34 FNIA ) The only important conditions are that you to not become a criminal or otherwise a threat to Switzerland and you are an actual resident.

3
Thank you.

My current C Permit has an expiry date on it though, it is valid for 5 years so I assume I need to do something when the expiry date approaches. I suppose my question is do I need to send any language proficiency documents when I do? From your reply I’m assuming not?

Thanks.

4
You will get a letter before the expiry date requesting you to pay the fees for the new card. You shouldn't have to provide any language certificate, since you were already granted the C permit.

5
If you don’t yet have a biometric card they will ask you to come and have your details recorded.

6
Echoing previous comments : Sit tight. No need to worry about language*, etc. or do anything else. Wait for the invitation in the mail close to the date to pay the card reissuance fee and to come present your biometrics. It is the card that has to be reissued. They want to check we are well and alive. You will need to do this every 5 years. Or join the naturalization queue eventually.

The letter should arrive about a month before card expiry. If not received even 15 days before, download form K and send it to the OCPM.

*Non-EU Spouses of C permit holders are in principle also asked for the language certification. Also non-EU C permit holders who are on social aid need to provide additional documentation.

More details here: https://www.ge.ch/renouveler-son-per...is-b-durable-c

PS : Some weeks ago the Geneva biometrics centre has relocated to a brand new office at the Route de Penney.