I'm a legal alien!

Finally, in my possession.  The famous C-pass, or more properly known as the Niederlassungsbewilligung!

For those not in the know, the C-Pass is pretty much like a US permanent resident card.  I can live, work and pay my taxes (and even claim a refund!) like a Swiss citizen, but I can't vote.  No worries.  I find the Swiss political system a bit mind-boggling.

Oh the joy when I saw the yellow & white Post pick-up slip.  Last day before return, August 16, my birthday.  I thought it would be fitting to wait till B-day, but I was far too excited so I picked it up yesterday before work.  I mean anything could have happened before the 16th!

It's a huge relief for me as now my living in this country is not dependent on my employer signing a piece of paper every year stating I can work for the company for yet another year.

And, it all went so smoothly this time round. Luzern is so super efficient I must say.
So much easier than my Zürich nightmare, grhhh!

For those interested in applying for a C-pass in the city of Luzern:
Print & complete form: http://www.migration.lu.ch/index/formulare.htm (It's Formular 4)
and send to

Amt für Migration
Fruttstrasse 15
Postfach
6002 Luzern

There is also a list of requirements one needs to meet before the application is considered. Ability to speak one of the languages of CH is one such, as well it should be.

Some ex-pats living in Switzerland might wonder what the big deal is.  If one needs to wonder then this place is not the place for you in the long run.

Now off to Zürich to meet friends, pop open some cava and watch the Street Parade roll by. Salute!