Legal

The following texts are non-binding, as many points are not mentioned or are no longer 100% precise due to simplification.

In order to enter Liechtenstein, foreign individuals require a valid travel document.

Individuals from the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland can enter Liechtenstein with a valid identity card or a valid passport. Third country nationals are individuals who are not from the EEA or Switzerland.

They require a valid passport and possibly a visa to enter Liechtenstein.

If one wishes to stay in Liechtenstein for more than 90 days, a permit is needed.

Visa

To travel to Liechtenstein, individuals from certain countries need permission – a visa. A visa is usually a sticker in the passport.

Visa-requiring individuals can usually submit a visa application at the Swiss representation (embassy, general consulate).

This application must be submitted in a timely manner before the planned entry, generally at the place of their residence abroad.

The application is usually decided upon at the Swiss representation.

Further information can be found here:

A foreign person needs a residence permit if they wish to live in Liechtenstein. An application for the issuance of a residence permit must be submitted to the Immigration and Passport Office.

For persons from Switzerland, there is only a limited number of residence permits. These are granted by the government.

Residence permits for persons from the EEA are also granted by the government for half. The other half of the permits is drawn by lot.

Residence can also be granted to individuals from third countries.

The following types are distinguished, among others:

• Residence permit for employment. This residence permit is obtained to work in Liechtenstein.

• Residence permit without employment. With this permit, one is not allowed to work in Liechtenstein.

If a foreign person works in Liechtenstein, they cannot automatically also live in Liechtenstein.

A residence permit is valid for up to 5 years

(for third country nationals 1 year).

After 5 years, a person may apply for a permanent residence permit or a settlement permit depending on their nationality.

A citizenship test is required for granting permanent residency to third country nationals. The documents and more information about the test can be found here:

Family reunification aims to bring together family members.

They may then live together in Liechtenstein if the requirements are met.

Switzerland and EEA

Individuals from the EEA and Switzerland living in Liechtenstein can have their family members join them, provided

the requirements are met.

Family members are considered to be:

• Husband or wife (registered partnerships are treated equally to marriages)

• Children (including foster children) of the person with residence entitlement and their husband or wife, who are under 21 years old or who are proven to be provided for

• Parents of the person with residence entitlement and their husband and wife, who are proven to be provided for.

Third Country

Here, spouses and common children under

18 years are counted as family.

There are various requirements that must be fulfilled.

Attention! Family reunification must usually be applied for within three years.

Further requirements and important information can be found here:

The Immigration and Passport Office is responsible for asylum procedures.

With the asylum procedure, it is determined in Liechtenstein who needs international protection.

An individual can apply for asylum:

• If they are being persecuted in their home country.

After the Immigration and Passport Office has conducted the procedure, the asylum applications are decided by the government.

During the asylum procedure, needy asylum seekers live in the reception center in Vaduz or in other accommodations provided by Liechtenstein. The Refugee Assistance Liechtenstein organization is responsible for their accommodation and care.

With the granting of asylum, different rights and obligations are associated.