Switzerland: Unchanged Quotas in 2026

In 2026, Switzerland will retain the same work permit quotas for European Union (EU)/European Free Trade Association (EFTA) nationals on assignment, UK nationals, and non-EU/EFTA nationals as it had in 2025 (and 2024 before that). Quota figures will be as follows:   

• EU/ EFTA nationals on assignment: 3,000 short-term L permits and 500 long-term B permits.    
• UK nationals: 1,400 L permits and 2,100 B permits.    
• Non-EU/EFTA nationals: 4,000 L permits and 4,500 B permits. 

Despite the recent trend of these specific quota spots not being fully exhausted, employers are nonetheless advised to submit work permit applications early to avoid rejections due to the quotas being filled.       

Each of these above quotas – will be issued in four quarterly instalments across 2026, commencing on January 1, 2026.      

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.