Quotas exhausted for third quarter

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? The quota for L permits for EU/EFTA nationals has been exhausted for the third quarter of 2016.

What does the change mean? EU/EFTA nationals who are assigned to Switzerland may need to wait until new quotas for L permits are available Oct. 1. Each canton has its own procedures when the quota is exhausted. The quota exhaustion does not affect 120-day permits or four-month short-term permits.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: L permits.
• Who is affected: EU/EFTA nationals on assignment to Switzerland.
• Business impact: Employers may need to adjust start dates and business schedules.
• Next steps: Depending on the canton, employers may be able to apply for a temporary permit or a provisional approval to cover the period until Oct. 1.

Individual cantonal procedures. Cantons have implemented procedures in response to the quarterly exhaustion of quotas in recent years. Below are the procedures for major cantons:

• Zurich – Authorities will grant temporary permit approvals for one month. Applicants may then request an L permit for the period between the expiration of the month and Oct. 1.
• Basel, Geneva – Authorities will make preliminary decisions on permits, allowing assignees to start work. Permits will be issued Oct. 1.
• Ticino – Authorities will not issue preliminary decision or temporary approvals. Employers must wait until Oct. 1 for new L permits.
• BAL Analysis: Employers are encouraged to contact their BAL professional for information on individual cantons and how best to plan for EU/EFTA assignees.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Switzerland. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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Founded in 1980, Berry Appleman & Leiden (BAL) provides comprehensive global immigration services from seven offices across the U.S. and from offices in Geneva, London, Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney. BAL manages global visa matters and customized application approaches for work permits, business visas, and residence permits in more than 100 countries. With a single cost center for worldwide operations, BAL offers centralized management with regional and local support for the complete spectrum of global immigration matters.
Source: Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP