Big dreams find a home with these 5 best immigration lawyers in Zurich
I’ll never forget when my cousin arrived, suitcase in hand, convinced she could sort out her residence permit in a quick afternoon. Several weeks later, she admitted the process was less a brisk stroll and more an uphill hike.
What made all the difference was finding a reliable immigration lawyer in Zurich who spoke her language—literally and figuratively—and guided her through the red tape without losing the Swiss sense of order.
So, to save you from unnecessary detours and help you settle into life in Zurich, here are some standout immigration lawyers who know both the rules and the realities. With their support, your journey can be significantly smoother.
How much do immigration lawyers charge in Zurich?
Immigration lawyers in Zurich generally charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from CHF 200 to CHF 500 per hour. The majority fall within a mid-range of CHF 250 to CHF 350 per hour.
1. Swiss Law International
Address: Richtistrasse 2, 8304
Contact Details: +41 44 523 61 24
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Swiss Law International is led by managing director Juan Isidro Fabian Feliz, whose leadership ensures a clear focus on the complex landscape of Swiss immigration law.
They handle a wide range of legal matters, from general immigration issues to specialised procedures like obtaining permanent residency or Swiss nationality through investment.
Their scope covers the entire relocation process, from work permit applications and residence registration to guidance for those moving from specific countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, India, or Ukraine or for employee transfers.
Several people I spoke with praised the firm’s unique “Express Visa Check” service. For a straightforward EUR 125 fee, you get a quick, honest assessment of your passport’s eligibility for a Swiss or Schengen visa.
It’s perfect if you’re just exploring your options and aren’t quite ready to dive into the full application process. Swiss Law International aims to support a diverse clientele and offers services in several languages.
However, it’s unclear how many staff are fluent in each language, and it’s not certain if all documents can be provided in your preferred language. This is worth considering if language support is important to you.
Expertise in family reunification and work visas
“Especially in the areas of family reunification and work visas, the work is very professional and satisfactory. The local people are very friendly and committed.”
– Lucas Nieschwietz, Google Review
Highly recommended for family reunification cases
“A very good address when it comes to family reunification. I was helped very well. The 5 stars are fully deserved.”
– Simone Schermbeck, Google Review
2. Legal XII Tables Avocats
Address: Uraniastrasse 18, 8001
Contact Details: +41 43 883 22 65
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Lionel Patrick Serex at Legal XII Tables Avocats specialises in law for foreigners and immigration (“Droit des étrangers et droit de l’immigration”), working with both individuals and families.
I spoke to a client who shared how Lionel helped her secure a residency permit for her elderly father—a process she expected to be overwhelmingly complicated, but found surprisingly manageable thanks to the firm’s guidance.
Beyond straightforward cases, the firm is experienced with challenging situations, including appeals and complex cross-border matters.
When a case requires knowledge of both Swiss and foreign law, they can seamlessly connect with international experts to provide the right guidance.
Language barriers aren’t an issue either. Everyone I talked to appreciated being able to choose French, English, German, or Arabic for their consultations.
And if you’re new to Swiss immigration law or feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—you can book an initial consultation online, manage appointments, submit your documents, and keep track of your case.
But it’s important to note that the firm offers a broad range of legal services. Those seeking highly specialised, boutique expertise exclusively in immigration law might prefer a more niche practice.
Supportive legal guidance
“I highly recommend Lionel Patrick Serex as an outstanding lawyer. He has provided me with excellent advice on how to approach my case step by step, ensuring I understand the process and feel well-prepared. His professionalism, clear communication, and dedication have been truly impressive. What I appreciate most is his availability and quick responses, which have made me feel supported throughout. I am grateful for his guidance and would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone in need of legal expertise”
– Ahmed Al-Dbei, Google Review
Reliable legal partnership
“Mr. lic. iur. Lionel Patrick Serex, LL.M., Executive MBA, is an extremely competent attorney who is distinguished by his conscientiousness and expertise. His strong vision and ability to make strategically sound decisions make him an ideal partner and a valuable support in legal matters.”
– Anton Wiesner, Google Review
3. Rechtskraft Advokatur
Address: Badenerstrasse 21, 8004
Contact Details: +41 43 300 55 70
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Rechtskraft Advokatur is an award-winning law firm known for its transparency. With lawyers like Markus J. Meier, Naomi Adotsang, Simone Thoni, and Andreas Bellwalder, you’ll be in very capable hands.
I’ve heard positive feedback about how supportive and attentive they are when helping people with residence permits, asylum proceedings, family reunification, and visa questions.
Another helpful feature is their initial legal assessment. It’s a straightforward review of your case that gives you clarity about your legal position and the steps you should consider next—plus, it doesn’t require a big financial commitment up front.
If you’re feeling uncertain, this is a practical way to get answers before deciding on more extensive legal assistance.
And if your situation happens to overlap with corporate relocation, family changes, or even criminal matters that could impact your residency, Rechtskraft’s multidisciplinary team is ready to advise.
However, keep in mind that Rechtskraft describes itself as a specialist team rather than a large, full-service law firm. While this means you’ll get personalised attention, it may also result in fewer resources or availability compared to very large firms.
Exceptional migration support
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Rechtskraft Advokatur & Business Coaching agency and their exceptionally talented lawyer, Simone Thoni. From the moment I reached out to them for assistance with my migration case in Switzerland, I was met with nothing but professionalism, dedication, and a genuine commitment to my cause. Simone Thoni’s legal expertise and in-depth knowledge of the Swiss migration system proved invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. Simone’s meticulous attention to detail, coupled with her personable approach, made the entire process feel less daunting and more manageable. Throughout my case, Simone was always available to answer my questions and address any concerns. Her clear communication and guidance not only kept me well-informed, but also reassured me that I had made the right choice in selecting Rechtskraft Advokatur & Business Coaching agency for my legal needs. I wholeheartedly recommend Rechtskraft Advokatur & Business Coaching agency and Simone Thoni to anyone in need of outstanding legal representation and compassionate support. They have exceeded my expectations and have earned a well-deserved five-star rating.”
– Ivan Tur, Google Review
Dedicated service for fast, successful residency outcomes
“I would like to take an opportunity and say many thanks to Mr. Markus J. Meier for outstanding help in process to get my new residency in Switzerland. He was very dedicated at his job, and in just few weeks i had my new ID in my hands, I m sure without his help I would not be able to stay in Switzerland. Thank you so much for all your help, Petar Savkov”
– Petar Savkov, Google Review
4. Wenger Vieli AG
Address: Dufourstrasse 56, 8008
Contact Details: +41 58 958 58 58
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Wenger Vieli AG is a business-oriented firm known for its advisory work on complex transactions, such as supporting 3i in the sale of its participation in MAIT.
When it comes to immigration and employment matters, Stefan Müller, Sabine Taxer, and Florin Loris Koller are repeatedly named as the go-to lawyers.
The trio’s real edge is in business and investment-related immigration, such as legal residency and work permits. Their expertise is especially evident where these issues intersect with corporate moves, expansions, or even full-scale restructurings.
One HR manager I spoke to described how the team handled all the intricacies of relocating executives to Switzerland, efficiently navigating cross-border tax implications and work authorisation steps.
Another thing I find impressive is their experience with the more specialised side of immigration, like athlete visas and sports law.
They understand the interplay between sports regulations and immigration policy, which is not something every corporate law firm offers.
However, the firm’s services are primarily tailored to business clients and transactions. If you need personal or family immigration support, you may be better served by a firm specialising in personal immigration cases.
Friendly and knowledgeable legal consultation
“Bruno Bächli gave me competent advice. The conversation was friendly and very accommodating. My recommendation.”
– Matthias Schuster, Google Review
Expert advice
“Excellent advice and service on closing a three continent, four nations, international transaction.”
– James Freeman, Google Review
5. Sgier & Partner
Address: Tödistrasse 67, 8002
Contact Details: +41 44 228 78 90
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Sgier & Partner, led by Antonia Sgier, is a recognised specialist in work permits and relocation services. The firm caters to both companies and individuals seeking to move to Switzerland.
Their services include not only legal advice but also practical relocation support. These include home-finding and settling-in assistance, designed for foreign professionals and their families.
For businesses considering hiring talent from abroad, their “Swiss-Permit-Check” is particularly noteworthy.
I’ve come across professionals who describe it as a real game-changer. Within 48 hours, companies receive a clear and realistic assessment of whether their candidate’s work permit application is likely to succeed.
Their proprietary Permit24 software enables clients, especially those processing a high volume of permits, to outsource the entire immigration process. This service offers real-time online updates, full transparency, and control over immigration cases.
And if you are ever faced with urgent questions or tricky border cases, Sgier & Partner offers direct access to an expert via a dedicated hotline (CHF 4.50/min).
Just note that it’s only available on weekdays during regular office hours, so it might not be an option if you need help in the evenings or on weekends.
Competent, efficient, and friendly immigration specialists
“Excellent advice – competent and efficient I was looking for information on work and residence permits in Switzerland for my son’s girlfriend, who comes from a non-EU country. During my research, I came across Sgier + Partner’s Case Assessment – a preliminary assessment service costing CHF 99, which proved to be absolutely valid. From the first contact, the advice was professional, clear and very targeted. An immigration specialist provided me with all the necessary information and explained precisely what steps to take. I was particularly struck by the combination of great competence, clear communication and authentic friendliness. Thanks to Sgier + Partner I now have a clear vision of the process to follow and I know that we are in good hands. I can recommend the team without any reservations – real support in an often complex area!”
– Laura Zambelli, Google Review
Step-by-step support
“We had a complex immigration case and Sgier Partner led us step by step to success”
– Christina Marangoni, Google Review