Once you have entered Geneva, you must present yourself at the OCPM within 14 days of arrival. You have to register your address, and biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) will be taken in order to issue your residence permit.
Legal basis: Art. 12 FNIA, Art. 10 ASEO
The OCPM requests that when you leave Geneva Canton definitively, you complete and send back Form D – at least two weeks before your actual departure date. This form can be found on the OCPM website.
You should not confuse permanent departure with temporary absence (e.g. due to holidays).
Beware of unannounced departures: your permit could be cancelled. See also the section on the expiry of the residence permit.
See also the section on work, income and social security.