Swiss immigration landscape in 2025
cWhile certain updates bring more flexibility for specific permit holders, others maintain the status quo on quotas and regulations. Experts from leading law firms and consulting firms shed light on the evolving legal landscape, offering insights into what the future holds for immigration in Switzerland.
S-permit updates: greater flexibility, but uncertain long-term outlook
One of the most discussed immigration topics in Switzerland is the S-permit, initially introduced as a temporary measure for displaced individuals. According to Laure Baumann (pictured), Counsel Immigration Law at Lenz & Staehelin, several key updates are being considered at the federal level. The right to travel for S-permit holders is expected to remain in effect until further notice, pending a legal amendment. Measures are being proposed to encourage employment among S-permit holders, including mandatory registration with public employment services, the right to change cantons for work, and a shift from work authorization requirements to a simple notification obligation. Baumann adds: “These measures could facilitate job access by reducing administrative burdens, enabling individuals to seek employment more freely across Switzerland”
Work permit quotas: stability with a notable exception for Croatian nationals
Switzerland’s yearly immigration quotas for non-EU/EFTA nationals remain unchanged in 2025. However, a significant shift applies to Croatian nationals. “As of January 1, 2025, work permit quotas for Croatian nationals have been lifted, allowing them unrestricted access to the Swiss labor market”, notes Baumann. This policy change could benefit sectors experiencing labor shortages, particularly in key economic regions.
The digitalisation of immigration procedures
Despite Switzerland’s federal structure, where each canton manages immigration autonomously, the push for digitalization is gaining momentum. Baumann explains:”The Federal department of Justice and police has implemented an online visa system to accelerate short-term visa applications. However, not all Swiss representations currently support this system”. At the cantonal level, more authorities are integrating digital solutions, streamlining processes such as address changes and departure notifications. While the transition to fully digitalized procedures remains gradual, experts anticipate broader adoption in the coming years.
Corporate and individual demand for legal assistance
The demand for immigration-related legal services continues to evolve. Law firms report three main areas of inquiries. The first type concerns third-country nationals seeking to relocate for work or retirement, often inquiring about residence permits and family reunification. The second type comes from current Swiss residents looking to secure their stay, with a focus on settlement permits and naturalization. The third type involves companies hiring foreign talent, navigating employment conditions and permit processing timelines. “While corporate demand remains stable, individual demand is rising, driven by geopolitical instability and an increasing number of foreigners wishing to relocate to Switzerland”, Baumann highlights.
Click here to download the MAG and read the full story, with further contributions by Timo Heck, Partner at Fragomen, and Jehona Islami, Director of Immigration at Deloitte Switzerland.
