Tasks

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is responsible for all matters covered by legislation on foreign nationals and asylum seekers in Switzerland.

Entry and residence

Anyone wishing to remain in Switzerland for an extended period of time must have both a valid travel document and a residence permit. Such permits are issued more readily to nationals of EU/EFTA member states than to nationals of other countries. Foreign nationals claiming persecution in their country of origin may apply for asylum.

Employment

Nationals of EU and EFTA member states who wish to work in Switzerland may do so by virtue of the Swiss-EU Bilateral Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons. Highly qualified third-state nationals are authorised to work in Switzerland and the number of permits issued is limited by quotas. Asylum seekers are not authorised to work for the first three months after they have submitted their asylum application.

Integration

Foreign nationals who live in Switzerland for an extended period of time should be integrated into the Swiss labour force and everyday life. Integration is a process involving both the Swiss population and the foreign national. The Confederation may lend support to integration projects.

Naturalisation

Well-integrated foreign nationals may apply for naturalisation, which falls mainly within the jurisdiction of cantonal and communal authorities. The Confederation establishes the criteria for naturalisation.

Protection from persecution

Switzerland affords temporary or long-term protection to foreign nationals who face persecution in their native countries or who must escape the ravages of war. Asylum seekers undergo an asylum procedure to determine whether they qualify for refugee status.

Returning abroad

Irregular migrants and asylum seekers whose application has been rejected and whose return to their home country is lawful, reasonable and feasible must leave the country. The SEM encourages voluntary return but also enforces repatriation.

Last modification 10.10.2020

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