The Swiss Federal Council has decided that the total number of work permits will be reduced from 12,000 to 8,750 in 2015. This 27% decrease is likely meant to encourage Swiss companies to utilize the local Swiss workforce rather than seeking out non-EU and non-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) workers. The new quota will allow for 4,000 L-permits and 2,500 B-permits for highly qualified non-EU/EFTA nationals. Additionally, 2,000 L-permits and 250 B-permits will be granted to service providers of EU/EFTA member countries. Eligible service provider applicants must seek to provide services in Switzerland for more than 90 days or 120 days in a single calendar year. Companies should be aware of the new quotas and plan accordingly.
Please note that this is general information only and not intended as advice on a specific matter. Please feel free to contact Fakhoury Global Immigration directly with questions exclusive to your situation. This news alert may have been prepared using information from Peregrine Immigration Management, which is licensed to Fakhoury Global Immigration.