Switzerland may no longer be a part of the Schengen Zone

Switzerland has warned its nationals that a positive vote in the May 17 referendum would have serious consequences. The Swiss Govt. has asked the people to reject the referendum proposed by the Swiss People’s Party. If the referendum is passed, it could put an end to free movement with the European Union. It could also affect the security of the country.

The Swiss Govt. also warned that an affirmative vote to the May 17 referendum would kick Switzerland out of the Schengen Zone. Switzerland is not a part of the European Union; however, being part of the Schengen Zone allows it passport-free travel within the EU.

Switzerland had established a deal with the European Union in 2007, which allowed Swiss citizens free movement within the EU. The Swiss People’s Party’s referendum aims to put an end to all that. The May 17 referendum has been called Switzerland’s Brexit moment.

If the proposed referendum is passed, Switzerland will have independent control over immigration. However, it will lose the freedom of movement within the EU.

The Swiss Govt. pointed out a positive outcome to the referendum would not only create issues for security and asylum but also for free movement and border traffic. Switzerland will no longer be a part of the Schengen Zone, losing access to the EU market. Having access to the EU single market is vital for the survival of the export-led economy of Switzerland.

As per the latest data from the Swiss authorities, immigration contributed 55,000 newcomers in 2019. The foreign population in Switzerland is around 2.1 million, accounting for almost a quarter of the total population of 8.5 million.

The major immigrant groups living in Switzerland belong to Italy, France, Germany and Portugal. Among non-EU citizens, the largest immigrant group is of Kosovo born citizens.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit, Invest or Migrate Overseas, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company.

If you found this blog engaging, you may also like…

Switzerland adds Georgia to its list of “safe” countries