The first point of call to migrate as a pharmacist to Switzerland would be to figure out whether you can obtain a work permit. This is pretty straightforward if you are from the EU, however, if you are not it is somewhat more arduous.
Non-EU/EFTA citizens will need to get a special residence permit with authorisation to work in Switzerland. This usually comes if you have been offered a job in Switzerland already, once you have found employment, the employer then seeks authorisation for a work visa on your behalf. There are three types of work permits you can obtain in Switzerland:
- Permit L – short-term for up to one year.
- Permit B – short-term, usually a year but can be extended.
- Permit C – settlement permit for those who have lived in Switzerland for at least 10 years.
The second point of call would be to check whether your foreign degree is recognised. This process is performed by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) they can be contacted via:
- Web site: www.bag.admin.ch
- email: MEBEKO-Ausbildung@bag.admin.ch
The organisation will require that you have all important papers translated into one of the national languages of Switzerland, in some cases these translations may need to be notarized. Only submit copies of originals, never the originals themselves. Even though the exact requirements depend on your profession and types of qualifications, you will probably need some or all of the following documents:
- application form – correctly and fully completed
- copy of passport or ID card
- diploma
- proof of professional experience
- a character reference, health certificate, certificate of good conduct
- proof of solvency (this would be in the form of a recent bank statement)
Switzerland Pharmacist Exam
The Switzerland Pharmacist Exam for migrant pharmacy graduates is designed to assess the competencies of foreign-trained pharmacists to ensure they meet the standards required to practice in Switzerland. Here’s a general overview:
- Eligibility: Before taking the exam, foreign-trained pharmacists must demonstrate that their educational and professional qualifications are equivalent to the Swiss standard. This often involves a detailed assessment of their credentials by a recognized Swiss body.
- Language Proficiency: Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Depending on the region where the pharmacist intends to practice, they may need to demonstrate proficiency in one or more of these languages. This is crucial as pharmacists need to communicate effectively with patients, other healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies.
- Examination Structure:
- Written Examination: This tests the theoretical knowledge of the pharmacist in various areas such as pharmacology, pharmaceutical care, pharmaceutical technology, and Swiss pharmacy law.
- Oral Examination: This is an interactive session where candidates might be presented with case studies or scenarios to assess their clinical judgment, decision-making skills, and interpersonal communication.
- Practical Examination: This hands-on assessment tests the candidate’s skills in compounding, dispensing, and other pharmacy-related tasks.
- Training Period: Some foreign-trained pharmacists might be required to undergo a period of supervised practice or internship in a Swiss pharmacy. This provides them with practical experience and familiarizes them with the Swiss healthcare system.
- Cultural and Ethical Aspects: Switzerland has its own set of cultural and ethical guidelines related to healthcare. The exam may include questions or scenarios that test the candidate’s understanding of these aspects to ensure they can practice with sensitivity and professionalism.
- Passing Standards: Candidates must achieve a minimum score or grade to pass the examination. Those who do not pass may have the opportunity to retake the exam after a specified period.