On November 19, 2025, The Swiss Federal Council has confirmed that work permit quotas for third-country nationals and certain service providers will remain unchanged for 2026, ensuring stability for employers seeking skilled talent outside the EU and EFTA.
Key Quotas for 2026
- Third-Country Nationals: 8,500 permits total
- 4,500 B permits (residence permits)
- 4,000 L permits (short-term permits)
- Service Providers from EU/EFTA (assignments over 120 days): 3,500 permits total
- 3,000 L permits
- 500 B permits
- UK Nationals: 3,500 permits total
- 2,100 B permits
- 1,400 L permits
The updated ordinance on admission, stay, and employment (OASA) will take effect January 1, 2026.
Utilization Trends
Historically, these quotas have not been fully used:
- In 2024, only 74% of third-country quotas were utilized.
- EU/EFTA service provider quotas reached 50% usage.
- UK-specific quotas were used at just 21%.
As of September 2025, usage remains moderate:
- Third-country quotas: 52%
- EU/EFTA service providers: 38%
- UK quotas: 17%
Why It Matters
The decision reflects Switzerland’s effort to balance labor market needs with immigration controls, providing predictability for employers amid global economic uncertainty and ongoing talent shortages. Companies can continue to hire non-EU/EFTA workers if they demonstrate that recruitment efforts within Switzerland and the EU/EFTA have been unsuccessful.
The separate UK quota, introduced after Brexit, will remain in place for another year.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.