Legitimation Card
Diplomatic Immigration

Legitimation Card.

Specialized support for diplomatic and international organization staff obtaining Swiss legitimation cards.

35+ Years of Excellence
40+ Expert Consultants
100% Independent & Private
The Challenge

Navigating Diplomatic Residency.

For staff of international organizations and diplomatic missions, Switzerland offers a distinct residency framework.

The legitimation card (Carte de légitimation) is issued by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) to members of diplomatic missions, consular posts, and international organizations based in Switzerland. Unlike standard residence permits, the legitimation card follows a separate administrative path. Welcome Service guides you through this process, ensuring all documentation is prepared correctly and submitted efficiently.
What We Deliver
  • FDFA Liaison & Documentation
  • EU & Non-EU Applicant Support
  • Family Member Registration
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Our Approach

What's Included.

01

Application Management

Complete preparation and submission of legitimation card applications to the FDFA, including all required supporting documents.

02

Family Registration

Processing of dependent family member legitimation cards and coordination with the relevant international organization.

03

Transition Support

Guidance for staff transitioning from legitimation card status to standard Swiss residence permits upon leaving their organization.

Barbara Vulliet

Barbara Vulliet

Immigration Specialist

"Diplomatic residency in Switzerland requires precision and specialized knowledge of FDFA procedures."

Every move is personally supervised to ensure that the standards of care and precision associated with our family name are met with every single transition.

Your Journey

How It Works.

1

Documentation Review.

We assess your employment status and prepare the required documentation package for the FDFA application.

2

FDFA Submission.

We liaise with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and your employing organization to ensure a smooth application process.

3

Card Issuance.

We coordinate the collection of your legitimation card and ensure all family members are properly registered.

4

Ongoing Administration.

We handle renewals, status changes, and any administrative updates throughout your assignment in Switzerland.

Questions & Answers

Common Questions.

Who is eligible for a legitimation card? +

Staff members of international organizations (UN, WTO, WHO, etc.), diplomatic missions, and consular posts based in Switzerland, along with their immediate family members.

How does the legitimation card differ from a standard residence permit? +

The legitimation card is issued by the FDFA rather than cantonal migration offices. It grants specific privileges and immunities depending on the holder's status and the host agreement of their organization.

What happens when my assignment ends? +

We assist with the transition to a standard Swiss residence permit if you wish to remain in Switzerland, or with the orderly closure of your Swiss administrative presence.

Get Started

Discuss Your Legitimation Card Needs.

Every transition begins with a private conversation. Share your requirements and a senior consultant will respond within 24 hours.

All enquiries handled with absolute confidentiality
No commissions from third parties — 100% independent
Response within 24 hours by our team

Subject to professional secrecy · Established 1990