Switzerland to Ease Work Access for Some Third-Country Nationals

Employment to Become Easier for Foreigners Under Protection & Graduates of Swiss Institutions.

Switzerland is set to make employment more accessible for certain groups of third-country nationals, including individuals with protection status S and graduates of Swiss educational institutions.

In 2025, the government will grant 8,500 residence permits for skilled foreign workers, maintaining the quota at last year’s level.

The proposed changes aim to improve integration and simplify access to the Swiss labour market, according to Schengen News.

Who Will Benefit From the New Swiss Work Permit Rules?

The Swiss Federal Council is currently discussing amendments to the Aliens and Integration Act (AIG), the Asylum Act (AsylG), and the Ordinance on Admission, Residence, and Employment (VZAE). A consultation process on these changes will last until June 2, 2025.

According to the official statement, the new rules will apply to:

- People with protection status S
- Third-country nationals who have obtained qualifications in Switzerland

The Swiss Federal Council believes that simplifying employment for these categories will accelerate their integration and reduce administrative burdens.

"[The Federal Council] wants to accommodate the persons concerned by making administrative arrangements easier, and on the other hand, potential employees should be encouraged to contribute even more to their own employment."

Migrants Under Protection Status S Can Work Anywhere in Switzerland

The Swiss government has proposed allowing migrants with protection status S to change cantons freely for employment purposes. This is a major shift from previous policies, which restricted their movement between regions.

If they decide to move to a new canton, they will only need to register with the new local authorities—without needing to apply for a separate work permit.

Additionally, individuals in this category must register with public employment agencies, making it easier for them to find jobs.

Foreign Graduates of Swiss Institutions to Get More Work Opportunities

Another significant proposal involves making employment easier for foreign graduates of Swiss institutions. This applies to individuals working in sectors of high scientific or economic interest.

Previously, only Swiss university graduates were eligible for these benefits, but now graduates of higher vocational schools and postdoctoral researchers will also have better job prospects.

Work Permit Quotas for Foreigners Remain Unchanged in 2025

The Swiss government has decided to maintain its 2024 quota of 8,500 residence permits for foreign skilled workers:

- 4,500 B residence permits (long-term residence)
- 4,000 L short-term residence permits

Additionally, UK citizens—who are now considered third-country nationals post-Brexit—will receive 3,500 permits:

- 2,100 B residence permits
- 1,400 L short-stay permits

Switzerland is thus adjusting its labour policies to address economic challenges while maintaining a balance between foreign workforce integration and national interests.