If a student leaves Switzerland, the authorities may consider that their permit has become invalid and cancel it. This is a possibility if a student leaves Switzerland for a period of time (e.g. if they have to return to their country of origin for personal reasons). The set times are:
- 3 months for short-term residence permits (L permits)
- 6 months for residence permits (B permits)
In these cases, a permit will be terminated even if the student has not completed their course and wishes to resume it.
It is important to remember that the authorities have wide access to border control files. In addition, they consider the cancellation of a health insurance policy as a strong indication of departure from Switzerland.
Legal basis: Art. 61 FNIA