The Swiss immigration landscape underwent significant developments in 2024, creating a complex but evolving environment for employers and employees alike. While 2023 hinted at a recovery from previous challenges, 2024 brought unexpected hurdles. This article reviews key immigration changes in 2024 and offers insights into what employers can anticipate for 2025. Topics include quota updates, the S-Status for Ukrainian nationals, the UK-Switzerland service provider agreement, and digitalization trends.
Immigration Quotas in 2024 and 2025
Quota usage in 2024 was notably lower than in 2023, reflecting hesitancy among employers in hiring foreign nationals requiring quota permits. Despite this, the Federal Council announced on November 27, 2024, that quotas for 2025 will remain unchanged:- EU Quotas: 500 B permits, 3,000 L permits
- Non-EU Quotas: 4,500 B permits, 4,000 L permits
- UK Quotas: 2,100 B permits, 1,400 L permits
What This Means for Employers
The stability of quotas provides employers with predictability for hiring foreign talent. Croatian nationals will become a readily available labor pool in 2025, reducing administrative barriers. However, employers should monitor developments closely as quotas for Croatians could return in 2026.Protection Status S for Ukrainian Nationals
The Swiss government extended Protection Status S (S Permit) for Ukrainian nationals until at least March 4, 2026, enabling access to the labor market. However, this status is contingent on the situation in Ukraine and is subject to Swiss political decisions. In 2025, employers may apply to convert S Permits to B Permits for greater stability.Risks and Opportunities
While S-Status simplifies hiring Ukrainian nationals, its temporary nature poses risks. Employers relying on these workers should consider transitioning to B Permits to secure long-term workforce stability.UK-Switzerland Service Provider Agreement
Since Brexit, UK nationals have fallen under the same regulations as third-country nationals. However, a bilateral agreement allows UK-based service providers to use a simplified notification procedure for short-term work (up to 90 days per calendar year). This provision will remain effective until December 31, 2025.Implications for 2025
Employers can continue leveraging this agreement for short-term assignments. As the deadline approaches, it remains uncertain whether the simplified notification procedure will be extended or replaced by stricter processes.Digitalization of Immigration Processes
Swiss cantonal authorities embraced digitalization in 2024, implementing online platforms for work and residence permit applications. However, the rollout varies across cantons, leading to inconsistent user experiences. On a broader scale, Switzerland plans to introduce digital Schengen visa applications by January 2028, signaling a long-term commitment to modernization.What to Watch in 2025
The success of digitalization efforts will depend on system integration, scalability, and user-friendliness. Employers should prepare for increased reliance on digital tools, which could improve processing times and reduce administrative burdens.Looking Ahead to 2025
As 2025 begins, several developments will shape Swiss immigration policies:- Quota Stability: Employers can rely on consistent quotas, with Croatian nationals gaining unrestricted access to the labor market.
- S-Status Opportunities and Risks: Employers must navigate the temporary nature of S-Status while considering transitions to B Permits.
- Digitalization Progress: Continued implementation of digital platforms will drive efficiency but may require adaptation to evolving systems.
- UK Agreement Continuity: The fate of the UK-Switzerland notification agreement remains uncertain beyond 2025.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros- Stability in quotas simplifies planning for hiring foreign nationals.
- Croatian nationals gain unrestricted access, expanding the labor pool.
- Digitalization promises efficiency in permit applications.
- The UK service provider agreement offers flexibility for short-term assignments.
- S-Status is temporary and tied to geopolitical developments, posing risks for long-term employment.
- Digitalization progress varies across cantons, leading to inconsistencies.
- The future of the UK-Switzerland notification agreement remains unclear.
- Reintroduction of quotas for Croatian nationals may occur in 2026.