Switzerland Maintains 2025 Quota for Skilled Foreign Workers at 8,500
Switzerland has announced it will maintain its quota for skilled foreign workers at 8,500 for 2025, matching the levels set for the current year. The Federal Council confirmed this decision to support the country’s economic needs and ensure a steady flow of skilled talent from abroad.
Breakdown of Quotas for 2025
The quota will allow for the recruitment of up to 8,500 skilled workers from non-European Union (EU) countries. These workers will be issued two types of permits:
- 4,500 B Residence Permits: Long-term residence permits for qualified workers.
- 4,000 L Short-Term Residence Permits: Permits issued for temporary stays.
The Federal Council emphasized that these measures are in place to address skills shortages in various industries while maintaining a balance in immigration levels.
Special Quotas for UK Workers
Switzerland will also continue its separate quotas for workers from the United Kingdom. Following Brexit, UK citizens are classified as third-country nationals, which complicates their work eligibility within EU countries. To address this, Switzerland has established transitional quotas specifically for UK workers:
- 3,500 UK Workers Quota:
- 2,100 B Residence Permits
- 1,400 L Short-Term Permits
The Federal Council indicated plans to eventually integrate these UK-specific quotas into the broader foreign worker quota system in the coming years.
Utilization of Quotas in Previous Years
In 2023, only 78% of the foreign worker quota was used, and data from 2024 shows a utilization rate of just 63%. This shortfall is likely due to stringent requirements and prioritization of domestic and EU/EFTA workers over non-EU nationals.
Economic Impact and Future Goals
Switzerland’s foreign worker admission policies are tailored to the country’s economic needs. While domestic and EU/EFTA workers are given priority, the reserved quotas for non-EU skilled workers ensure that businesses can access talent when local labor markets fall short.
By maintaining the 2025 quota, the Federal Council aims to provide businesses with flexibility to address workforce gaps while ensuring a controlled and needs-based immigration approach.
