Switzerland: Workers from third countries can enter from July 6

As per a Press Release [dated June 24, 2020] by the Federal Council of Switzerland, from July 6, “all corona-related restrictions on the admission of workers from third countries” will be lifted.

Moreover, from July 6, the cantons will also begin processing residence applications from third-country citizens that are not planning on working in Switzerland. For example, retirees.

Normal criteria will be applicable for the processing of residence applications for third-country citizens not looking at work overseas opportunities in Switzerland.

By ‘canton’ is implied a district or part of a country. 26 cantons or federal states make up the Swiss federation.

Nevertheless, third-world country nationals will still not be allowed to Travel to Switzerland for holiday purposes. Entry into Switzerland for stays less than 90 days – that is, not normally requiring a permit – will be authorised only in “cases of special necessity”.

According to the official Press Release, “Restrictions on entry continue to apply for third-country citizens who wish to come to Switzerland for a short stay of less than 90 days, e.g. for a holiday, for a short course, for medical treatment or for non-urgent business meetings. As is currently the case, such trips will only be permitted in cases of special necessity. If possible, Switzerland plans to lift these final entry restrictions at the same time as the other Schengen states.”

With the lifting of restrictions – from July 6, 2020 – on the admission of workers from third countries, it will again be possible for such individuals to work in the culture or tourism sectors. Beginning July 6, third-country nationals can also take up education or training courses while working, for instance, as an agricultural trainee or as an au pair, or on a youth exchange program.

However, in view of the developing COVID-19 situation in the individual third countries, there is a possibility that health-related measures might be introduced at the border for any individuals entering into Switzerland from such states.

On June 15, Switzerland had lifted entry restrictions at all its internal borders with the other Schengen States. No border controls are being carried out at the internal borders between Switzerland and the other Schengen States.

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

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