Switzerland is a popular country among expats, as it guarantees its residents safety, highly developed healthcare and education systems, and is a real haven of peace near major European capitals. Working here also has numerous advantages. Find out how many foreigners will be able to obtain the right to work in Switzerland in 2025

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BUY

In December 2024, the Swiss government set a quota for work permits for 2025. The number of visas allowed has remained unchanged since 2024. How many expats will be able to obtain a work permit in Switzerland in 2025 is explained below.

Work permit quotas in Switzerland set for 2025

The number of permits has remained unchanged for EU/European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizens, citizens of non-EU/EFTA countries, including the UK, as well as Kenya, Tajikistan, Malaysia and Costa Rica.

- B permits

B permits are issued to foreigners who are permanently resident in Switzerland for a specific purpose and who may or may not be working. Quota for 2025:

1. EU/EFTA citizens – 500.

2. Non-EU/EFTA citizens (excluding the UK) – 4,500.

3. UK citizens – 2,100.

- L permits

Foreign nationals can apply for an L permit if they are temporarily staying in Switzerland for a specific purpose, usually less than one year, and may or may not be working. Quota for 2025:

1. EU/EFTA citizens – 3,000.

2. Non-EU/EFTA citizens (excluding the UK) – 4,000.

3. UK citizens – 1,400.

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

Special features of employment in Switzerland for representatives of certain countries

UK

In connection with the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons between Switzerland and the UK entered into force on 1 January 2021.

Swiss companies can hire qualified workers from the UK, which is why the Swiss Federal Council has decided to maintain separate quotas for employed UK citizens again in 2025.

Croatia

The Swiss Federal Council has adopted an amendment to the Decree on the Free Movement of Persons to grant Croatian citizens full access to the Swiss labor market from January 1, 2025.

The last increase in quotas in Switzerland was carried out in 2019 to address labor shortages and respond to business demands for greater access to skilled workers, and Swiss officials have decided to keep the same quotas for the sixth consecutive year, despite the underutilization of the quotas recently.

As a reminder, Switzerland is facing a significant labor shortage, and many companies are struggling to attract qualified workers in various fields. The country is known for its high wages and quality of life, which makes it attractive for expats. We have already talked about the labor market in Switzerland, salary levels, how to apply for a job and other important details.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe trip abroad, I advise you to contact a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations while traveling around the world.

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