Switzerland Commits CHF 315 Million to Reinforced Schengen Border Fund
Bern Warns Croatian Hires Could Face Fresh Work-Permit Quotas in 2026
Federal Council Freezes 2026 Work-Permit Quotas for Non-EU Talent
Latest News
Swiss Parliament Approves Annual Work-Permit Ceilings in Sweeping Immigration Overhaul
Parliament has passed a bill that replaces Switzerland’s flexible, demand-driven immigration quotas with fixed annual ceilings voted by lawmakers. The reform also cuts asylum processing from 140 to 90 days and enters into force on 1 July 2026. Companies will have to plan head-counts and assignments earlier, while cantons prepare competitive allocation systems.
ETIAS Fee for Switzerland to Rise to €20, Tripling Cost for Visa-Exempt Business Travellers
Switzerland will align with Schengen partners and increase the ETIAS application fee from €7 to €20 on 1 January 2026. The hike will raise travel-authorisation costs for visa-exempt nationals, including business visitors from the US and UK, prompting corporates to review budgets and update booking tools.
Zurich Airport Completes EU Entry/Exit System Roll-Out—Biometrics Now Mandatory for Non-EU Arrivals
Zurich Airport has fully activated the EU Entry/Exit System, requiring all third-country nationals to complete biometric enrolment on first arrival. While repeat trips will speed up, initial queues reached 40 minutes, and companies are advised to allow extra connection time for employees until traffic patterns normalise.