Federal Council leaves third-country quotas for 2026 unchanged
Update Explained
The Swiss Federal Council has decided to maintain the same quotas for employment-related permits for third-country nationals, service providers from the EU/EFTA, and UK nationals for the year 2026. This means that in 2026, Swiss companies can recruit up to 8,500 qualified workers and specialists from non-EU/EFTA countries, with 4,500 residence permits (B permits) and 4,000 short stay permits (L permits) available. Additionally, the quotas for EU/EFTA service providers remain at 3,500 permits, which includes 3,000 L permits and 500 B permits. For UK nationals, who have a separate quota due to Brexit, there are 3,500 permits available, split into 2,100 B permits and 1,400 L permits. The decision to keep these quotas unchanged is based on current labor market conditions, historical utilization of quotas, and economic needs, aimed at providing Swiss companies with planning security.
What changed
No changes were made to the quotas for third-country nationals, EU/EFTA service providers, and UK nationals for 2026.
Why it matters
Swiss companies needing to hire foreign workers have the same opportunities and constraints in 2026 as they did in the previous year, allowing for continuity in recruitment planning.
Who is affected
- Third-country nationals seeking employment in Switzerland
- Service providers from EU/EFTA countries
- UK nationals in employment
Key dates
Effective
Jan 1, 2026
The unchanged quotas will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Key details
- 8,500 work permits for third-country nationals with 4,500 B permits and 4,000 L permits.
- 3,500 permits for EU/EFTA service providers with 3,000 L permits and 500 B permits.
- 3,500 permits for UK nationals with 2,100 B permits and 1,400 L permits.