Overview
Switzerland has no single national citizenship test. Ordinary naturalisation is handled by the commune, the canton and the federal State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) together. The canton and commune check whether you are successfully integrated and familiar with the Swiss way of life, and cantonal law governs how they do it. The SEM page does not describe a national exam, so ask your own commune or canton whether it uses a written test, an interview or another check.
Who can apply
For ordinary naturalisation you need 10 years of residence in Switzerland and a C permanent residence permit. Years lived in Switzerland between ages 8 and 18 count double, but you must have lived in Switzerland for at least six years. Time on B or C permits counts fully, F permits count half, and N or L permits do not count. Cantonal law adds a minimum residence period of two to five years in the commune and canton concerned, and the canton may set additional integration requirements.
For the federal naturalisation licence you must be successfully integrated, be familiar with the Swiss way of life, and not threaten Switzerland's internal or external security.
Fees
SEM charges CHF 100 for an adult, CHF 150 for spouses applying together and CHF 50 for a person under 18 when the application is made. Communal and cantonal fees are added and set by cantonal law.
How to apply
Apply to the naturalisation authority where you live. The canton checks the formal requirements and prepares a naturalisation report, then sends the file to SEM. If SEM grants the federal naturalisation licence, the canton must make its decision within a year of it being granted, or the licence expires.
Is there one test for all of Switzerland?
No. The procedure in the canton and commune is governed by cantonal law, so each decides how it checks your integration and knowledge of Swiss life.
How long must I have lived in Switzerland?
Ten years at federal level, with extra minimum periods in your canton and commune.