Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- New permit quotas have been issued for third-country specialists and EU/EFTA service providers
- Separate quotas exist for UK nationals in 2021 following Brexit
- Switzerland will admit 8,500 third-country specialists in 2021
- Switzerland will admit 3,500 EU/EFTA service providers in 2021
- 2021 quotas for UK nationals include 2,100 Residence B permits and 1,400 L permits
- Quotas for UK nationals may be combined with third-party specialist quotas in 2022
Overview
The Swiss government has specified annual quotas for EU/EFTA service providers and third-country specialists. There is a separate quota for UK nationals in 2021 following the Brexit transition.
What are the Changes?
Quotas will remain unchanged in 2021 for non-EU citizens. A limit of 4,500 applies to Residence B permits. Short-term L permits will be capped at 4,000. A total of 8,500 third-country specialists can be admitted in 2021. Certain permits are not subject to the quota, including those issued for a maximum of four months or 120 days.
The quotas for EU/EFTA service providers will also stay the same. In 2021, the Swiss government will admit 3,500 EU/EFTA service providers. The government will issue 500 Residence B permits and 3,000 short-term L permits. Quotas will be released on a quarterly basis. Permits issued for a maximum of four months or 120 days are exempt from the quota.
Quotas for UK Citizens
In 2021, 2,100 Residence B permits and 1,400 short-term L permits are available for UK nationals. Quotas for UK citizens will be released on a quarterly basis. Quotas are valid for one year.
Looking Ahead
Quotas for UK citizens may be combined with third-country quotas in 2022. Further information will be provided in 2021.
Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.
