When asked about their desire to become naturalized, the responses of the Migration-Mobility Survey participants reveal that 22% of them expressed uncertainty, while 64 % indicated a likelihood or uncertainty. (Among this group, 8% have already completed their naturalization process or initiated it). On the other hand, 14% do not think they will pursue naturalization.
Notably, individuals from the Balkan countries show a significant interest in naturalization, with 5% having already submitted or approved applications, and 71% expressing their intention to do so. Similarly, individuals from South America display notable interest, with 11% having initiated or completed the process and 63% having expressed their intention to pursue naturalization. Conversely, Austrians show the least interest in obtaining Swiss nationality, with only 32% expressing interest. It seems important to note that Austrian citizens are not permitted to hold dual citizenship, and would be required to renounce their Austrian passport to pursue naturalization. The group of Portuguese residents also displays relatively low interest, with only 38 % expressing interest in naturalization.
Men, individuals with tertiary education, migrants moving for family reasons, and those who have lived in Switzerland for at least five years show higher interest in pursuing naturalization. On the other hand, individuals who have recently arrived in Switzerland are most uncertain about becoming naturalized.
How many migrants get naturalized over time?
How did the COVID-19 outbreak affect plans regarding naturalization?
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Source: Migration-Mobility Survey 2022, nccr – on the move
Note on methodology: These figures are taken from the Migration-Mobility Survey, conducted in fall 2022 on a population of persons born abroad and with foreign citizenship who have moved to Switzerland in the last 16 years. To be included in the sample population, respondents had to be between 24 and 64 years of age at the time of the survey, and at least 18 years of age on their arrival in Switzerland. 7,206 people replied to the full questionnaire, either online or by telephone.
The question asked: Do you intend to apply for Swiss nationality in the future?
Note: The “country of origin” was as declared by the respondents. In most cases, it was the same as their country of nationality or one of their countries of nationality.
Terms of use: The Migration-Mobility Indicators are made available free of charge for non-commercial use. We ask the users to acknowledge the source.
Suggested citation: nccr – on the move, Migration-Mobility Indicators. Neuchâtel: nccr – on the move, 2023.
For more information about the data sets used, please click here.
Last update: 14 July 2023