Switzerland Wants to Make Employment More Accessible for These Third-Country Nationals

The Federal Council of Switzerland has discussed making some changes regarding the status of third-country nationals in the country, aiming at making residence permits more accessible for foreigners.

According to a press release issued by the authority, these changes will concern two categories of people: people with protection status S and third-country nationals who have obtained qualifications in Switzerland, Schengen.News reports. 

The consultation on the corresponding changes to the Aliens and Integration Act (AIG), the Asylum Act (AsylG), the Ordinance on Admission, Residence and Employment (VZAE) and the Ordinance on the Integration of Foreign Nationals (VIntA) will last until June 2, 2025.

These Categories Can Be Granted Easier Access to Employment in Switzerland 
The press release reveals that persons with protection status S will have easier access to the labour market. During the meeting that was held on February 26, the Federal Council agreed to open the consultation on amendments to acts concerning the integration of foreigners into the Swiss society and labour market as well as the Asylum Act.

In addition, the Federal Council has clarified that employed persons with protection status S would be eligible to change cantons, allowing them to be employed anywhere they want within the Swiss territory. 

If they do decide to change their cantons, it is required to convert the current permit for employment into a simple registration. In addition, this category of migrants is now required to register with the public employment agency.

Foreigners Enrolled in Swiss Education Institutions Should Have Improved Employment Opportunities 
The Federal Council also points out that third-country nationals who have completed their higher vocational school or postdoctoral studies in Switzerland and are employed in sectors of “high scientific or economic interest” should be given more job opportunities from the labour market. This already applies to third-country nationals who have obtained a Swiss university degree. 

The Swiss government will maintain last year’s quota for foreign skilled workers, granting about 8,500 residence permits for employment purposes.

A special quota will be dedicated to UK workers, who since Brexit are considered third-country nationals. In 2025, the Swiss government will grant residence permits to 3,500 workers from the EU. Around 2,100 of them will be granted B residence permits, and 1,4000 will be granted L short-stay permits.

Source: https://schengen.news/switzerland-wants-to-make-employment-more-accessible-for-these-third-country-nationals/