Asylum law-related
Asyl
Asyl

Asylum law-related

How does the asylum system work in Switzerland? What rights are associated with the different residence permits? Where can I find legal advice on asylum matters? This section lists useful information.

Asylum system in Switzerland

The asylum system in Switzerland is based on the Swiss Asylum Act as well as international agreements such as the Geneva Refugee Convention.

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is responsible for the realisation of asylum procedures. Since the revision of the Asylum Act in 2019, most procedures are completed within 140 days. Switzerland pursues a policy of expedited procedures to ensure that people in need of protection receive it quickly, while those without a protection claim leave Switzerland promptly.

Permits & rights

There are five different permits in the asylum area. The rights associated with each status vary depending on the type of permit.

  • Permit N, asylum seeker
  • Permit S, person with S protection status
  • Permit B, refugee with asylum
  • Permit F, temporarily admitted refugees
  • Permit F, temporarily admitted persons

Family reunification

Family reunification (for direct relatives or the spouse) depends on the nationality and residency status of the person residing in Switzerland. Certain conditions must be met. The application must be submitted within a specific timeframe: 5 years for spouses and children under the age of 12, and one year for children aged between 12 and 18.

Cases of hardship

A hardship case in the Swiss asylum system allows rejected asylum seekers to obtain a residence permit in exceptional cases when returning to their home country would be unreasonable. Key criteria include long residence in Switzerland, good integration, health issues, the welfare of children, and potential dangers in the country of origin. The decision is made by the cantonal authorities in coordination with the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

Asylum and protection systems in Europe

Overview of the various legislative practices in the field of asylum.