Switzerland and EU Sign “Bilaterals III” Package, Modernising Free-Movement Rules
205 Flight Disruptions Hit Zurich, Geneva and Basel in Single Day
Deutsche Bahn–SBB Measures Boost Stuttgart–Zurich Punctuality to 80 %
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Switzerland and EU sign landmark “Bilaterals III” accords, streamlining free-movement and cross-border business
On 2 March 2026 Switzerland and the EU signed the long-awaited “Bilaterals III” package. The accords modernise the free-movement rules, introduce a digital social-security certificate for cross-border workers, and update air- and land-transport provisions, giving employers simpler compliance and travellers smoother border crossings. Ratification is pending but the deal removes major uncertainty for multinationals operating between Switzerland and the EU.
FOCA issues guidance on passenger rights amid Middle-East flight cancellations
On 2 March Switzerland’s civil-aviation regulator reminded travellers that they remain entitled to refunds, re-routing and care services under EU Regulation 261/2004, even though compensation is unlikely because the Middle-East crisis counts as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’. Companies should alert travelling staff, keep receipts for hotel and food expenses, and use the FDFA Travel Admin app for consular help if stranded.
Switzerland halts visa processing in Tehran and urges nationals to leave Iran
Citing escalating security risks, Switzerland has stopped issuing all visas in Tehran and advised Swiss citizens to leave Iran immediately. The suspension disrupts student exchanges and business travel, forcing companies to reroute visa applications through third-country consulates and to update evacuation and remote-work plans for staff in Iran.
New Swiss legitimation card launched for diplomats and UN staff, valid as Schengen residence permit
From 2 March 2026 Switzerland is issuing a redesigned legitimation card to diplomats and staff of international organisations. The card now explicitly functions as a Schengen residence permit and carries enhanced security features, giving holders smoother border crossings and clearer proof of status for banks and landlords.