Switzerland Immigration Policy

There are 2 separate system of admission governing Switzerland immigration policy. Some existing rules have been eased out for the convenience of the people. On the other hand, some rules have become stricter to safeguard the immigration policies of the country. Those rules that applied to EU/EFTA nationals have been made flexible. On the other hand rules that were formulated keeping in mind the third country nationals have been made more stringent so as to safeguard the interests of the country.

Free movement of people:

This is as according to the agreement which has been signed on the 1st of June, 2002. People can move freely within the country and EU people can enter the country and reside in any part of the country as long as they fulfill the necessary criteria. The criteria that need to be satisfied are specified in the agreement.

As far as third country nationals are concerned:

The conditions that are laid out in the Federal Act on Foreign Nationals apply to the third country nationals. Those who are non EU nationals, their admission is highly restricted. It is based on the judgment of the authorities. Sometimes authorization for residing is granted if the rules pertaining to foreign nationals and the labor market compile.

But generally there are no automatic rights. But authorization for residence is permitted in case of specified purposes. These purposes include education, training, family reunification, retirement etc. but even them some conditions need to be fulfilled.

When it comes to family reunification of third country nationals:

Those coming from third countries and have a permanent place of residence can be joined in the country with their children and their spouse. Those who have annual residence permit do not enjoy such benefits. But they can get permission for reunification of their family within the borders of Switzerland if they can show the authorities that they can arrange for residence where their family will put up and if they can support their family financially.

For this they have to have adequate income. Stability is another important factor, that is, there should be no complains registered against the person who is being joined by his family. Their spouse / children may be employed themselves or may seek employment within the country. The immigration policies of Switzerland are same throughout the country and are applicable to everyone. People are classified by the government in the above mentioned ways.