Long-stay visas (Type D)
Liechtenstein Short-Term Residence Permit L for Gainful Employment
For those taking up employment in Liechtenstein for a limited period, typically under twelve months. This short-term residence permit suits fixed-term or temporary roles rather than indefinite work.
Important information
- Issuing authority
- Migration and Passport Office (Ausländer- und Passamt)
- Permit type
- L permit (short-term residence permit)
- Typical duration
- Short-term, generally up to 12 months
- Tied to the employment/purpose; extension is limited.
- Purpose
- Temporary or fixed-term gainful employment
Who it's for
- EEA/Swiss nationals with a fixed-term or short-duration job in Liechtenstein
- Workers on defined projects or assignments
- Highly qualified third-country specialists in exceptional cases
Requirements
- A short-term or fixed-term employment relationship in Liechtenstein
- Valid identity document / passport
- Accommodation for the period of stay
- Compliance with quota and, for non-EEA nationals, labour-market conditions
What you can do
- Reside in Liechtenstein for the limited, approved period
- Work for the employer and role covered by the permit
How to apply
The employer and applicant apply to the Migration and Passport Office before the stay begins, providing the employment contract and personal documentation. Third-country nationals additionally need the relevant labour-market clearance and, where required, an entry visa.
Documents
- Application form for a short-term residence permit
- Valid passport or national ID
- Fixed-term / short-term employment contract
- Proof of accommodation
- Passport photo
Frequently asked questions
The L permit is for short-term stays (generally under a year) and is tightly linked to a specific temporary purpose, while the B permit is the longer-term residence permit for stays of more than twelve months.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Liechtenstein visas
- WORKLIVE AND WORKLOTTERY ALLOCATEDResidence Permit B for Gainful Employment (Draw)The main long-term permit for those wanting to live and work in Liechtenstein for more than 12 months. Very few are issued each year, with roughly half allocated by lottery.View visa details
- SETTLEMENTNON-WORKINGFINANCIALLY INDEPENDENTResidence Permit B Without Gainful Employment (Draw)A long-term residence permit for financially independent people (including retirees) who do not intend to work in Liechtenstein, allowing them to settle without taking up gainful employment.View visa details
- STUDYSTUDENTSNO EMPLOYMENTShort-Term Residence Permit L for Study / TrainingFor students, this short-term residence permit allows enrolment in study or training in Liechtenstein without taking up gainful employment during the course.View visa details