Couple refused passport as they don't have friends

A Dutch couple living near Zurich have been refused citizenship as the local municipality believe they haven’t made enough Swiss friends.

The 72- and 66-year-olds have lived in Unteriberg for 20 years, have no criminal record and speak German fluently. 

They were defending themselves before the municipal council after the initial decision. They highlighted they belonged to several local associations. But it wasn’t enough to change the council’s mind. 

The couple are now considering appealing to the cantonal courts. 

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