Switzerland | Protection status S extended through 2028 with new restrictions

Switzerland’s Federal Council announced the extension of protection status S and Program S support measures for Ukrainian nationals through March 4, 2028.

Key takeaways:

Protection status S for Ukrainian nationals will continue until March 4, 2028. Similarly, support measures for Ukrainian nationals with protection status S, known as Program S, will continue until March 4, 2028. These support measures include federal government monetary contributions to the cantons’ integration efforts, language support, and access to education and employment.

The Swiss government is imposing additional restrictions on protection status S. Effective Aug. 20, 2026, protection status S will be granted only to individuals who are in compliance with Ukrainian military obligations. The new rule applies to applications submitted on or after Aug. 20, 2026, and has no impact on Ukrainian nationals already granted protection status S.

Individuals with protection status S are entitled to a B residence permit after five years’ residence in Switzerland under the Asylum Act. The Swiss government clarified that if protection status S is revoked, residence permits linked to protection status S will no longer be valid.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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