Moving to Liechtenstein
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

The charming nation of Liechtenstein, nestled between Switzerland and Austria, offers a unique blend of Alpine beauty, rich culture, and attractive tax benefits. While living expenses can be high, Liechtenstein boasts some of the highest wages in Europe, making it an appealing destination for expatriates. Its booming economy, strong financial sector, and commitment to high-tech innovation further enhance its desirability.

Anyone interested in making Liechtenstein their new home can apply for a long-term visa. However, it's important to note that residence permits are limited, potentially making it challenging to secure one for this small principality. EEA or Swiss citizens, however, do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

To embark on your move to Liechtenstein, you'll need to obtain a residence permit, with two primary options available: a permit for work purposes or one without work.

If your relocation goal is employment in Liechtenstein, you must obtain a work visa and a residence permit for gainful employment (B). As a third-country citizen, you can secure a residence permit if you hold a managerial, specialist, or qualified employee position, along with a completed apprenticeship or extensive professional experience.

The residence permit for employment allows you to work in Liechtenstein for over 12 months. After this initial period, you can extend your stay at the Immigration and Passport Office, provided it's done no later than 14 days after your permit expires. Permanent residency is attainable after five consecutive years of living in the country.

Due to Liechtenstein's stringent residency policies, many employees may choose to reside in neighboring areas and commute daily to work within the principality.
Employees working in Liechtenstein who commute daily, referred to as cross-border commuters, fall into three categories:

• Swiss citizens: Swiss nationals do not require a work permit or police registration.
• EEA citizens: EEA citizens employed in Liechtenstein must register with the authorities, with employers required to register them with the Migration and Passport Office within ten days of hiring.
• Citizens of other countries: Foreign nationals planning to work in Liechtenstein need a cross-border commuter permit. To obtain this permit, specific conditions must be met, and it is valid for one year.

For those relocating to Liechtenstein for family reunification, a long-term family reunion visa is necessary. However, the eligibility criteria differ for EEA and Swiss citizens compared to third-country citizens.

EEA or Swiss citizens can reunite with their families in Liechtenstein at any time, provided they are:

• Spouses.
• Direct descendants of a Liechtenstein resident under 21 years of age, dependent on the family member in Liechtenstein.
• Relatives who can demonstrate dependency on their family member in Liechtenstein.

Third-country nationals residing in Liechtenstein can apply for family reunification:

• Within three years of the issuance of the residence permit or at the outset if their family member holds a residence permit for work purposes.
• Within three years of establishing family ties and after at least four uninterrupted years with a residence permit in Liechtenstein.

Upon the arrival of family members in Liechtenstein, certain requirements must be fulfilled, including registering the family with the commune of residence, providing proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage, and enrolling children in school.

For those seeking to move to Liechtenstein for educational opportunities, it's important to note that student visas are temporary in nature. To pursue studies, you must first gain acceptance at an educational institution, followed by applying for a student visa. Holders of student visas may live and work in Liechtenstein to a limited extent while supporting themselves and any dependents during their course of study.

Liechtenstein offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

For those who plan to relocate with their pets to Liechtenstein, it is possible under certain conditions:

• Your pets should be equipped with a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip.
• Current rabies vaccination, accompanied by a rabies titer test.
• Tapeworm treatment is generally not required.
• You must provide a health certificate, with specific requirements depending on whether the transport is for non-commercial or commercial purposes.
• If you are transporting more than five pets for non-commercial reasons, they must be over six months old and involved in an event or activity.
• It is essential to verify whether your pets are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
• Please note that Liechtenstein does not have its own airport, so if you plan to arrive by air, you will typically do so via Germany or Switzerland.

Liechtenstein is known for being pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your beloved companions with you; however, it is crucial to adhere to all the necessary documentation and regulations to ensure a smooth transition for your pets.

For expatriates considering living in Liechtenstein, several cities within the country offer unique attractions and lifestyle choices. Here are some of the most sought-after cities:

Vaduz:

• As the capital city of Liechtenstein, Vaduz holds significance as the residence of the royal family and the parliamentary seat.
• Nestled alongside the picturesque Rhine River and surrounded by the Swiss Glarus Alps, Vaduz boasts a fairytale-like medieval castle and a host of tourist attractions.
• Vaduz is known for its thriving tourism industry, offering numerous job opportunities, particularly in the tourism sector. Salaries here tend to be on the higher side.
• While Vaduz provides an excellent quality of life, it's important to note that the cost of living is relatively high, averaging around $2,200 per month. However, the robust job market and generous salaries help maintain a comfortable standard of living.

Schaan:

• Positioned at the heart of Liechtenstein, Schaan is the country's largest city by population and serves as a vital economic and industrial center.
• The city showcases stunning Baroque-style stone facade buildings and is home to several global manufacturing companies, mostly situated on its outskirts.
• Schaan offers a strong educational infrastructure, with various kindergartens and schools. Notably, the private Waldorf school attracts students not only from the local area but also from neighboring Austria and Switzerland.

Triesenberg:

• Triesenberg, the largest municipality in Liechtenstein in terms of area, is nestled at a lofty altitude of 6,562 feet (2,000 meters) above sea level.
• This picturesque village is perched on the Alpine slopes, offering lush forested hills and captivating vistas of the Rhine Valley.
• With a unique dialect influenced by its Middle Ages Walser settlers, Triesenberg features cozy farmhouses, traditional timber barns, and a luminous parish church that creates a magical ambiance when illuminated at night.

Planken:

• If you seek tranquility and proximity to nature, Planken may be the ideal city for you. Situated on the western slopes of Drei Schwestern, near the Austrian border, Planken is characterized by its serene ambiance.
• This charming municipality, home to approximately 470 residents, boasts a rich historical heritage, with deep-rooted traditions and beautiful timber houses adorned with flower baskets.
• Planken also features a simple yet historically significant church and a cozy inn, all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Mauren:

• Located in the northern part of Liechtenstein, Mauren has a storied history dating back to the Bronze Age. It is set against the backdrop of the Three Sisters mountain range, offering stunning vistas.
• Mauren's landscape is adorned with vast forests, picturesque scenery, numerous parks, Romanesque architecture, and Gothic glassworks.
• The municipality is known for maintaining its traditions while embracing modernity, boasting modern public infrastructure suitable for residents of all age groups.
• Mauren enjoys an active social and cultural life, with a vibrant club scene and easy access to various airports.

When relocating to Liechtenstein, you have the option to transport your belongings by land or air. It's important to note that immigration and customs procedures for Liechtenstein are managed by Switzerland, as the two countries are in a customs union.

Customs Regulations:

1. To import your household goods into Liechtenstein, they should have been in your possession for a minimum of six months.
2. Certain items such as household goods, personal effects, and educational materials for students can be brought into the country duty-free.
3. Customs clearance should take place during the established open hours of the customs office.
4. It is advisable to import your household goods in proximity to your relocation to Liechtenstein.
5. You will be required to provide specific documents, including a customs form, residence permit, employment contract, a detailed list of the imported goods, and confirmation of your departure from your previous place of residence.

Restricted Items

There are certain items that are subject to customs restrictions, including but not limited to:

• Cash, foreign currencies, and securities.
• Narcotics.
• Cultural property.
• Medicines.
• Plants.
• Weapons.
• Radar warning devices.

If you intend to bring a vehicle with you to Liechtenstein, be aware that you will need to pay a duty, and the vehicle must be declared at the border, with adherence to specific entry requirements.

Prohibited Items:

• Perishable items such as food.
• Building materials like wood, bricks, and cement.
• Pornographic materials.
• Dangerous materials such as paint and chemicals.
• Products derived from endangered animals.

Securing permanent residency in Liechtenstein is a notable achievement, but a challenging endeavor. To be eligible, you must first obtain a temporary residence permit, which is subject to a yearly quota. Unfortunately, the majority of these permits are allocated to EEA and Swiss nationals.

Acquiring citizenship in Liechtenstein is a complex process, with several pathways available:

• Citizenship by birth: If one of your parents was a Liechtenstein citizen at the time of your birth, you may automatically gain citizenship. Other scenarios under this category include retroactive citizenship for those born out of wedlock to a Liechtenstein father and citizenship for children born to Liechtenstein parents residing abroad or through adoption.
• Citizenship by marriage: Marriage to a Liechtenstein citizen can lead to citizenship eligibility after at least five years of marriage. Spouses must ensure that their Liechtenstein spouse has not acquired citizenship through a previous marriage. Proficiency in the German language and knowledge of Liechtenstein's political structure and laws are essential requirements.
• Citizenship by naturalization: Eligibility for naturalization involves maintaining residence in Liechtenstein for 30 years, with specific exemptions for individuals under 20 years of age, where each year spent in Liechtenstein counts as two years toward the 30-year requirement. Additionally, candidates must renounce their existing citizenship and demonstrate basic fluency in the German language, along with knowledge of Liechtenstein's political structure and laws. A shorter waiting period may be possible with community approval, requiring Liechtenstein Parliament and Prince's grant of citizenship.

Liechtenstein permits dual citizenship partially. Naturalized citizens must renounce their original citizenship. However, Liechtenstein citizens are allowed to hold dual citizenship, meaning that if a Liechtenstein citizen acquires citizenship in another country that permits dual citizenship, they can maintain dual citizenship with Liechtenstein.

Relocating to Liechtenstein offers a unique opportunity to experience a picturesque Alpine setting, vibrant culture, and the benefits of a prosperous economy. Whether you're moving for work, family, education, or other reasons, understanding the residency and citizenship options is essential for a smooth transition to this charming principality.