Fourth meeting of the Switzerland–United Kingdom Joint Committee on the Citizens' Rights Agreement
Update Explained
In the recent meeting between Switzerland and the United Kingdom regarding the Citizens' Rights Agreement, both nations decided not to prolong the provision that allows service providers to continue their economic activities in each other's territories under contracts made before January 1, 2021. This part of the agreement will remain effective until December 31, 2025. The decision not to extend it is based on the minimal usage of this provision by service providers since the agreement's implementation. Meanwhile, service providers from both countries are still able to offer new services in the other country under the Services Mobility Agreement, which has been extended through 2029.
What changed
The decision was made not to extend the provision allowing service providers to continue activities under contracts made before 2021.
Why it matters
Service providers with contracts made before January 2021 can only rely on the original provision until the end of 2025, after which they will have to rely on the Services Mobility Agreement for new service provisions.
Who is affected
- Swiss service providers working in the UK
- UK service providers working in Switzerland
Key dates
Meeting Date
Nov 13, 2023
Fourth meeting of the Switzerland–United Kingdom Joint Committee on the Citizens' Rights Agreement
Provision End
Dec 31, 2025
Provision allowing existing contracts to continue without permit ends
Services Mobility Agreement End
Dec 31, 2029
Extension for providing new services under Services Mobility Agreement
Key details
- The existing provision applies to contracts concluded before January 1, 2021.
- The Citizens' Rights Agreement allows for the cross-border provision of services without permits for up to 90 days per year.