Switzerland to Ease Employment Access for Foreign Nationals and Graduates

The Swiss Federal Council has proposed significant changes to the status of third-country nationals in the country, with the aim of improving access to the labor market for certain groups. Key changes discussed include easing employment opportunities for individuals with protection status S and those who have completed higher education in Switzerland.

Key Highlights:

• Protection status S holders will have easier access to the labor market.
• Graduates from Swiss education institutions will benefit from improved job opportunities.
• In 2025, approximately 8,500 residence permits will be granted to third-country nationals for employment purposes.

The Swiss government’s efforts to reform the Aliens and Integration Act (AIG), Asylum Act (AsylG), and several related regulations are designed to streamline processes for foreign nationals while contributing to the country's economic and social integration. The consultation period for these proposed changes is open until June 2, 2025.

Expanded Access for Individuals with Protection Status S

The Federal Council's recent proposal includes measures to simplify the administrative processes for individuals holding protection status S, allowing them greater freedom to change cantons within Switzerland. This change will enable them to seek employment in different regions without the need for complex permit modifications. Additionally, those in this category will now be required to register with the public employment agency, ensuring better integration into the job market.

As stated by the Federal Council, the goal is to encourage these individuals to actively contribute to their employment prospects while also facilitating their integration into Swiss society.

Improved Employment Prospects for Graduates

Another important development in the Federal Council’s proposal is the expansion of employment opportunities for third-country nationals who have completed higher vocational education or postdoctoral studies in Switzerland. Specifically, those with qualifications in high-demand sectors, such as science and economics, will have an easier time finding employment. This update also extends to graduates of Swiss universities, who are already given certain employment privileges.

The Swiss government has maintained last year's quota for foreign skilled workers, setting the annual total of residence permits for third-country nationals at 8,500. This includes 4,500 B residence permits and 4,000 L short-term residence permits for qualified workers.

Quota for Skilled Workers and UK Nationals Post-Brexit

The Federal Council also confirmed that 2025 will see 8,500 residence permits granted to skilled workers from third countries, including a special allocation for workers from the United Kingdom. Following Brexit, UK nationals are now considered third-country nationals, and in 2025, they will receive 3,500 residence permits, with 2,100 of them issued as B permits and 1,400 as L permits.

These reforms aim to address Switzerland’s labor market needs while supporting the integration of foreign nationals into the economy.

For further details, the full consultation process will continue until June 2025.

Sources:

• Swiss Federal Council
• Schengen.News