Immigration – Political initiative to limit immigration to Switzerland accepted

What was decided?

On February 9, 2014, Swiss voters voted yes for the political initiative to limit immigration into Switzerland ("Masseneinwanderungsinitiative") for EU nationals. The goal of the initiative is to limit the immigration of foreigners to Switzerland by introducing new quotas for foreigners who want to work and live in Switzerland. This includes EU nationals who, so far, benefit from the Free Movement of Persons Act in place between Switzerland and the EU allowing them to work and live in Switzerland.

What are the changes?

There are no immediate changes to the legislation or current immigration processes for employees coming to Switzerland.

What’s next?

The Swiss political organizations are required to make changes to the current legislation in order to meet the requirements postulated in the initiative within the next three years.

We will monitor this situation closely. As soon as there are further changes made we will inform you accordingly.