IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Quotas for EU nationals for both long-term B and short-term L permits have largely been exhausted for 2015. Some cantons may have reserve quotas available, and short-term non-quota permits are possible.

What does the change mean? Employers wishing to send EU nationals on assignment starting in 2015 should contact their BAL representative to discuss feasibility.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: B and L permits.
  • Who is affected: EU nationals assigned to Switzerland.
  • Business impact: Employers may have to adjust recruitment or project schedules and start dates for EU assignees in Switzerland.
  • Next steps: BAL will continue to monitor the situation; however, employers are encouraged to contact their BAL representative should they have plans for EU national assignments in 2015.

Background: Since Switzerland lowered its quota numbers in 2015, there has been pressure on the caps on foreign workers – especially L permits for EU nationals, which have been oversubscribed in the past four quarters. Although cantons and businesses hoped the quotas would be raised in 2016, the Swiss government recently announced they will remain at the same levels.

BAL Analysis: Employers should work with their BAL attorney on possible alternative planning for EU nationals from now until January. Meanwhile, businesses should anticipate similar quota pressure in the coming year when planning assignments in Switzerland.

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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