Federal Act
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Chapter 1 Subject Matter and Scope of Application |
Art. 2 Scope of application
1 This Act applies to foreign nationals, provided no other provisions of the federal law or international treaties concluded by Switzerland apply. 2 For citizens of member states of the European Community (EC), their family members, and employees posted to Switzerland by employers resident or with their registered office in these states, this Act applies only to the extent that the Agreement of 21 June 19994 between the Swiss Confederation on the one hand and the European Community and their Member States on the other hand on Freedom of Movement does not contain any different provisions or that this Act provides for more advantageous provisions. 3 For citizens of member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), their family members, and employees posted to Switzerland by employers resident or with their registered office in these states, this Act applies only to the extent that the Agreement amending the Convention establishing the European Free Trade Association from 21 June 20015 does not contain any different provisions or that this Act provides for more advantageous provisions. 4 The provisions on the visa procedure and on entry and exit apply only insofar as there are no provisions to the contrary in the Schengen Association Agreements.6 5 The Schengen Association Agreements are listed in Annex 1 No. 1.7 5 SR 0.632.31;the Protocol of 21 June 2001, which is an integral part of the Agreement applies to relations between Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 6 Inserted by Art. 127 below (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). 7 Inserted by No 1 of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). |
Chapter 3 Entry and Exit |
Art. 5 Entry requirements
1 Foreign nationals who wish to enter Switzerland:
2 They must provide a guarantee that they will leave Switzerland if only a temporary period of stay is planned. 3 The Federal Council may provide for exceptions to the entry requirements in paragraph 1 on humanitarian or national interest grounds or on the basis of international obligations.11 4 The Federal Council shall determine the recognised identity documents for crossing the border.12 8 Amended by No IV 3 of the FA of 19 June 2015 (Amendment to the Law of Criminal Sanctions), in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 1249; BBl 2012 4721). 11 Amended by No I of the FA of 21 June 2019, in force since 1 Dec. 2019 (AS 2019 3539; BBl 2019 175). 12 Amended by Art. 127 below, in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). |
Art. 6 Issue of the visa
1 Visas are issued by the Swiss representation abroad on behalf of the competent authority of the Confederation or the cantons or by another authority appointed by the Federal Council. 2 In the case of a refusal of the visa for a period of stay not requiring a permit (Art. 10), the competent foreign representation shall issue a decision on a standard form on behalf of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)13 or the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). The Federal Council may provide that other offices of the FDFA may also issue decisions on behalf of the FDFA.14 2bis A written objection may be filed against this decision with the relevant authority (SEM or FDFA) within 30 days. Article 63 of the Federal Act of 20 December 196815 on Administrative Procedure applies mutatis mutandis.16 3 To cover any residence, supervision and return costs, a formal obligation limited in time, the deposit of a surety bond or other types of guarantee may be required.17 13 The name of this administrative unit was amended by Art. 16 para. 3 of the Publications Ordinance of 17 Nov. 2004 (AS 2004 4937), in force since 1 Jan. 2015. This amendment has been made throughout the text. 14 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 16 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 11 Dec. 2009 (Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes relating to the Visa Information System) (AS 2010 2063; BBl 2009 4245). Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 17 Amended by Art. 127 below, in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). |
Art. 7 Crossing the border and border controls 18
1 Entry and exit are governed by the Schengen Association Agreements. 1bis The Confederation shall work with the European Union agency responsible for the surveillance of the Schengen external borders. This cooperation shall in particular involve the development of planning instruments for the agency based on Regulation (EU) 2019/189619.20 2 The Federal Council regulates possible checks on persons at the border in accordance with these Agreements. If entry is refused, the authority responsible for the border control shall issue a removal order in accordance with Article 64.21 3 If checks at the Swiss border are temporarily reintroduced in accordance with the Schengen Borders Code22 and entry is refused, the authority responsible for the border controls shall issue a reasoned and appealable decision on a form in accordance with Annex V Part B of the Schengen Borders Code.23 The refusal of entry may be enforced immediately. An appeal has no suspensive effect.24 18 Amended by Art. 127 below, in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). 19 Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13. November 2019 on the European Border and Coast Guard and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1052/2013 and (EU) No 2016/1624, last amended by OJ L 295 of 14.11.2019, p. 1. 20 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FD of 1 Oct. 2021 relating to the adoption of Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 on the European Border and Coast Guard, in force since 1 Sept. 2022 (AS 2022 462; BBl 2020 7105). 21 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 22 Regulation (EU) 2016/399 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 establishing a Community Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code), OJ. L 77 of 23.3.2016, p. 1; last amended by Regulation (EU) 2017/2225, OJ. L 327 of 9.12.2017, p. 1. 23 Amended by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). 24 Inserted by Art. 2 of the FD of 13 June 2008 on the Approval and the Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the European Community on the Acceptance of the Schengen Borders Code (AS 2008 56295405Art. 2 let. b). Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). |
Art. 825
25 Repealed by Art. 127 below, with effect from 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). |
Chapter 5 Admission Requirements |
Section 1 Admission for a Period of Stay with Gainful Employment |
Art. 19 Self-employment
Foreign nationals may be admitted to work on a self-employed basis if:
26 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). 27 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). |
Art. 20 Limitation measures
1 The Federal Council may limit the number of first-time short stay and residence permits (Art. 32 and 33) for work purposes. It shall consult the cantons and the social partners beforehand. 2 It may define quotas for the Confederation and the cantons. 3 SEM may, within the federal quota limits, grant first-time short stay and residence permits or increase the cantonal quotas. In doing so, it shall take account of the needs of the cantons and overall economic interests. |
Art. 21 Precedence
1 Foreign nationals may be permitted to work only if it is proven that no suitable domestic employees or citizens of states with which an agreement on the free movement of workers has been concluded can be found for the job. 2 Domestic employees include:
28 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). 29 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). 30 Inserted by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Simplified Admission for Foreign Nationals with University Degrees), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5957; BBl 2010 427445). |
Art. 21a Measures for persons seeking employment 31
1 The Federal Council shall introduce measures to make full use of the Swiss employment market potential. It shall consult the cantons and social partners beforehand. 2 In the event of an above-average level of unemployment in specific professions, areas of employment or economic regions, temporary measures shall be taken to assist persons who are registered with public employment agencies as seeking employment. The measures may be restricted to specific economic regions. 3 In the professions, areas of employment or economic regions with an above-average level of unemployment, employers must notify the public employment agencies of vacant positions. Access to information about the notified vacancies shall be restricted for a limited period to persons registered with public employment agencies in Switzerland. 4 The public employment agency shall within a short period of time provide the employers with the relevant details of persons registered as seeking employment. The employer shall invite suitable candidates for an interview or an aptitude test. The results shall be communicated to the public employment agencies. 5 Where vacant positions in accordance with paragraph 3 are filled by persons registered as seeking employment with public employment agencies, it is not required to notify the public employment agency of the vacant positions. 6 The Federal Council may specify additional exceptions to the obligation to give notice of vacant positions in accordance with paragraph 3, in particular in order to take account of the special situation of family businesses or in relation to persons who previously worked for the same employer; before issuing the implementing provisions, it shall consult the cantons and social partners. Furthermore, it shall regularly draw up lists of professions and areas of employment with above-average levels of unemployment in which the obligation to give notice of vacant positions applies. 7 If the requirements of paragraph 2 are met, a canton may request the Federal Council to introduce an obligation to give notice of vacant positions. 8 If the measures under paragraphs 1–5 do not achieve the desired effect or should new problems arise, the Federal Council, having consulted the cantons and social partners, shall submit proposals for additional measures to the Federal Assembly. In the event of serious problems, in particular problems caused by cross-border commuters, a canton may request the Federal Council to introduce further measures. 31 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). |
Art. 22 Salary and employment conditions and compensation for expenses incurred by posted employees 32
1 Foreign nationals may only be admitted in order to work if:
2 The employer shall compensate employees posted to Switzerland for expenses they incur in providing a cross-border service or in connection with a posting as part of an operational transfer, such as travel expenses and board and lodging. These compensation payments are not regarded as part of the salary. 3 In the case of long-term postings, the Federal Council may issue provisions on the duration of the obligation to compensate under paragraph 2. 32 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Arrangements and Information Systems), in force since 1 April 2020 (AS 2019 1413, 2020 881; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 23 Personal requirements
1 Short stay and residence permits for work purposes may only be granted to managers, specialists and other qualified workers. 2 In deciding whether to grant residence permits, the professional qualifications of applicants and their professional and social adaptability, language skills and age must also indicate that there is a prospect of lasting integration in the Swiss job market and the social environment. 3 By way of derogation from paragraphs 1 and 2, the following applicants may be admitted:
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Art. 25 Admission of cross-border commuters
1 Foreign nationals may only be admitted as cross-border commuters in order to work if:
2 Articles 20, 23 and 24 are not applicable. |
Art. 26a Admission of caregivers and teachers 33
1 Foreign nationals may be admitted as religious caregivers or teachers or as teachers of their native language and culture if, in addition to meeting the requirements of Articles 18–24, they:
2 In deciding whether to grant short stay permits, the competent authorities may derogate from the requirement under paragraph 1 letter b. 33 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Section 2 Admission for Residence without Gainful Employment |
Art. 27 Education and training
1 Foreign nationals may be admitted for education or training purposes if:34
2 In the case of minors, their supervision must be guaranteed. 3 A continued stay in Switzerland following completion or discontinuation of the education or training course is governed by the general admission requirements contained in this Act.36 34 Amended by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Simplified Admission for Foreign Nationals with University Degrees), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5957; BBl 2010 427445). 35 Amended by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Simplified Admission for Foreign Nationals with University Degrees), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5957; BBl 2010 427445). 36 Inserted by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Simplified Admission for Foreign Nationals with University Degrees), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5957; BBl 2010 427445). |
Art. 29a Persons seeking employment 37
Foreign nationals residing in Switzerland solely in order to seek employment, and their family members, are not entitled to social assistance. 37 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). |
Section 3 Derogations from the Admission Requirements |
Art. 30
1 Derogations from the admission requirements (Art. 18–29) are permitted in order to:
2 The Federal Council shall establish the general conditions and regulate the procedure. 38 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 23 Dec. 2011 on Extra-Procedural Witness Protection, in force since 1 Jan. 2013 (AS 2012 6715; BBl 2011 1). 39 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 20 June 2014 on Continuing Education and Training, in force since 1 Jan. 2017 (AS 2016 689; BBl 2013 3729). 40 Repealed by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Simplified Admission for Foreign Nationals with University Degrees), with effect from 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5957; BBl 2010 427445). |
Section 4 Stateless Persons |
Art. 31
1 Any person recognised as stateless by Switzerland has the right to a residence permit in the canton in which they are lawfully residing. 2 If the stateless person satisfies the criteria in Article 83paragraph 7, the provisions on temporarily admitted persons of Article 83 paragraph 8 apply. 3 Stateless persons in accordance with paragraphs 1 and 2 and stateless persons who are subject to a legally enforceable order for expulsion from Switzerland under Articles 66a or 66abis SCC42 or Article 49a or 49abis MCC43, or a legally enforceable expulsion order under Article 68 of this Act may work anywhere in Switzerland.44 Article 61 AsylA45 applies by analogy.46 44 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 46 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Chapter 6 Regulation of the Period of stay |
Art. 32 Short stay permit
1 The short stay permit is granted for limited periods of stay of up to one year. 2 It is granted for a specific purpose of stay and may be made subject to additional conditions. 3 It may be extended by up to two years. A change of job is only possible for good cause. 4 The short stay permit may only be granted again after an appropriate interruption of stay in Switzerland. |
Art. 33 Residence permit
1 The residence permit is granted for periods of stay with of more than a year. 2 It is granted for a specific purpose of stay and may be made subject to additional conditions. 3 It is subject to a time limit and may be extended, provided there are no grounds for revocation in terms of Article 62 paragraph 147. 4 When the residence permit is granted or extended, the integration of the person concerned will be taken into account to determine the period of validity.48 5 The granting and extension of the residence permit may be linked to the conclusion of an integration agreement if there is a special need for integration in accordance with the criteria set out in Article 58a.49 47 Term in accordance with No IV 3 of the FA of 19 June 2015 (Amendment to the Law of Criminal Sanctions), in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 1249; BBl 2012 4721). This amendment has been made throughout the text. 48 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 49 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 34 Settlement permit
1 The settlement permit is granted for an unlimited duration and without conditions. 2 Foreign nationals may be granted a settlement permit if:
3 The settlement permit may be granted after a shorter qualifying period if there is good cause. 4 Foreign nationals may be granted a settlement permit if they have resided in Switzerland for the past five years without interruption while holding a residence permit, if they meet the requirements of paragraph 2 letters b and c, and if they are able to communicate well in the national language spoken at their place of residence.52 5 Temporary periods of stay, in particular for education or training (Art. 27), do not count towards the uninterrupted period of stay in the last five years in accordance with paragraphs 2 letter a and 4.Periods of stay for education or training (Art. 27) are included if the person concerned, after their completion, held a settlement permit for an uninterrupted period of two years.53 6 If the settlement permit has been revoked in accordance with Article 63 paragraph 2 and replaced by a residence permit, the settlement permit may be granted again at the earliest five years after integration has been successful.54 50 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 51 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 52 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 53 Amended by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Simplified Admission for Foreign Nationals with University Degrees), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5957; BBl 2010 427445). 54 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 35 Cross-border commuter permit
1 The cross-border commuter permit is granted for employment in a border zone (Art. 25). 2 Persons with a cross-border commuter permit must return to their place of residence abroad at least once a week; the cross-border commuter permit may be made subject to additional conditions. 3 It is subject to a time limit and may be extended. 4 After an uninterrupted period of employment of five years, the holder has the right to extend a cross-border commuter permit, provided there are no grounds for revocation in terms of Article 62 paragraph 1. |
Art. 37 Change of the place of residence to another canton
1 Persons with a short stay permit or a residence permit who would like to relocate their place of residence to another canton must apply for the appropriate permit from the new canton beforehand. 2 Persons with a residence permit are entitled to move to another canton provided they are not unemployed and there are no grounds for revocation in terms of Article 62 paragraph 1. 3 Persons with a settlement permit are entitled to move to another canton, provided there are no grounds for revocation in terms of Article 63. 4 No permit is required for a temporary stay in another canton. |
Art. 38 Gainful employment
1 Persons with a short stay permit who are admitted in order to be self-employed or to engage in salaried employment may work as authorised anywhere in Switzerland. A change of job may be approved, if there is good cause and the requirements of Articles 22 and 23 are fulfilled. 2 Persons with a residence permit who are admitted in order to be self-employed or to engage in salaried employment may work anywhere in Switzerland. They require no additional authorisation to change jobs. 3 Persons with a residence permit may be authorised to become self-employed if the requirements of Article 19 letters a and b are fulfilled. 4 Persons with a settlement permit may be self-employed or engage in salaried employment anywhere in Switzerland. |
Art. 39 Employment of cross-border commuters
1 Persons with a cross-border commuter permit may work temporarily outside the border zone. If they want to move the focus of their employment to the border zone of another canton, they must apply for a permit from the new canton beforehand. After working for an uninterrupted period of five years, cross border commuters are entitled to change cantons. 2 Persons with a cross-border commuter permit may be authorised to change jobs if the requirements in terms of Articles 21 and 22 are fulfilled. After working for an uninterrupted period of five years, cross border commuters are entitled to change jobs. 3 Persons with a cross-border commuter permit may be authorised to become self-employed, if the requirements in terms of Article 19 letters a and b are fulfilled. |
Art. 40 Permit-granting authority and preliminary decision based on the employment market
1 The permits in terms of Articles 32–35 and 37–39 are granted by the cantons. The Confederation remains responsible for quotas (Art. 20) as well as for derogations from the admission requirements (Art. 30) and for the approval procedure (Art. 99). 2 If a foreign national is not entitled to work, the competent cantonal authority is required to issue a preliminary decision based on the employment market in order to authorise employment, a change of job, or a change to self-employment. 3 If a canton submits an application to grant a short stay or residence permit in terms of the federal quotas, SEM shall issue a preliminary decision based on the employment market. |
Art. 41 Identity cards
1 Foreign nationals normally receive a corresponding identity card with the permit. 2 Temporarily admitted persons (Art. 83) an identity card that indicates their legal status. 3 Identity cards for persons with a settlement permit are issued for five years for control purposes. 4 The identity card may carry a data chip. This contains the portrait photograph and fingerprints of the holder and the data contained in the machine-readable zone.55 5 The Federal Council specifies which persons are issued with an identity card with a data chip and which data must be stored on the chip.56 6 SEM specifies the form and the content of identity cards. It may delegate the production of identity cards wholly or partly to third parties.57 55 Amended by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). 56 Inserted by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). 57 Inserted by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). |
Art. 41a Security and reading of the data chip 58
1 The data chip must be protected against counterfeiting and its unauthorised reading. The Federal Council shall determine the technical requirements. 2 The Federal Council is authorised to enter into agreements with the states bound by any of the Schengen Association Agreements and with other states on the reading of the fingerprints stored on the data chip, provided the states concerned guarantee a level of data protection equivalent to that in Switzerland. 58 Inserted by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). |
Art. 41b Office issuing biometric identity cards 59
1 The office entrusted with issuing biometric identity cards and the general contractors concerned must prove that:
2 Beneficial owners, shareholders and members of the board or an equivalent management body, executive managers and other persons who have or could have a significant influence on the undertaking or production of foreign national identity cards must be of good reputation. Security screening in accordance with Article 6 of the Ordinance of 19 December 200160 on Personnel Security Screening may be carried out. 3 SEM may at any time request the documents necessary to verify compliance with the requirements listed in paragraphs 1 and 2. If the issuing office is part of a corporate group, the requirements apply to the entire group. 4 The provisions of paragraphs 1–3 apply to service providers and suppliers if the products or services provided are essential for the production of the identify cards. 5 The Federal Council shall specify the additional requirements to be met by the issuing office, general contractors, service providers and suppliers. 59 Inserted by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). 60 [AS 2002 377; 2005 4571; 2006 4177Art. 13, 4705No II 1; 2008 4943No I 3, 5747Annex No 2; 2009 6937Annex 4 No II 2. AS 2011 1031Art. 31 para. 1]. See now the O of 4 March 2011 (SR 120.4). |
Chapter 7 Family Reunification |
Art. 42 Family members of Swiss nationals
1 The foreign spouse and unmarried children under 18 of a Swiss national who live with the Swiss national are entitled to be granted a residence permit and to have their residence permit extended. 2 Foreign family members of Swiss nationals are entitled are entitled to be granted a residence permit and to have their residence permit extended if they are in the possession of a settlement permit from a country with which an agreement on the free movement of persons has been concluded. Family members are:
3 After a law-abiding and uninterrupted period of stay of five years, a foreign spouse is entitled to be granted a settlement permit if the integration criteria set out in Article 58a are met.61 4 Children under twelve are entitled to be granted a settlement permit. 61 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 43 Spouses and children of persons with a settlement permit 62
1 The foreign spouse and unmarried children under 18 of a person with a settlement permit are entitled to be granted a residence permit and to have their residence permit extended provided:
2 In order to obtain a residence permit, it is sufficient to register for a language support programme as an alternative to meeting the requirement set out in paragraph 1 letter d. 3 In the case of unmarried children under the age of 18, the requirement in paragraph 1 letter d does not apply. 4 The granting and extension of the residence permit may be linked to the conclusion of an integration agreement if there is a special need for integration in accordance with the criteria set out in Article 58a. 5 After a law-abiding and uninterrupted period of stay of five years, spouses are entitled to be granted a settlement permit if the integration criteria set out in Article 58a are met. 6 Children under twelve are entitled to be granted a settlement permit. 62 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 44 Spouses and children of persons with a residence permit 64
The foreign spouse and unmarried children under 18 of a person with a residence permit may be granted a residence permit or an extension thereof if:
2 In order to obtain a residence permit, it is sufficient to register for a language support programme as an alternative to meeting the requirement set out in paragraph 1 letter d. 3 In the case of unmarried children under the age of 18, the requirement laid out in paragraph 1 letter d does not apply. 4 The granting and extension of the residence permit may be linked to the conclusion of an integration agreement if there is a special need for integration in accordance with the criteria set out in Article 58a. 64 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 45 Spouses and children of persons with a short stay permit
The foreign spouses and unmarried children under 18 of a person with a short stay permit may be granted a short stay permit, if:
66 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 45a Annulment of marriage 68
If, on assessing the reunification of spouses in accordance with Articles 42–45, the competent authorities have reason to believe that there are grounds under Article 105 numbers 5 or 6 of the Civil Code69 (CC) for the marriage to be annulled, they shall report this to the competent authority under Article 106 CC. The request for the reunification of spouses is suspended until this authority makes its decision. If the authority raises an action for annulment, the request is suspended until a legally binding judgment has been issued. 68 Inserted by No I 1 of the FA of 15 June 2012 on Measures against Forced Marriages, in force since 1 July 2013 (AS 2013 1035; BBl 2011 2185). |
Art. 47 Time limit for family reunification
1 The right to family reunification must be exercised within five years. Children over twelve must be reunified with their family within twelve months. 2 The foregoing time limits do not apply to family reunification in terms of Article 42 paragraph 2. 3 The time limits for family members of:
4 A subsequent family reunification shall be authorised only if there are important family reasons therefor. If necessary, children over 14 shall be consulted on family reunification. |
Art. 48 Children fostered with a view to adoption
1 Foster children are entitled to receive a residence permit and to have their residence permit extended if:
2 If the adoption falls through, the foster children are entitled to an extension of their residence permit and, five years after entry, they are entitled to be granted a settlement permit. |
Art. 49a Exception to the requirement of proof of language proficiency 70
1 The requirement of Articles 43 paragraph 1 letter d and 44 paragraph 1 letter d may be waived where there is good cause. 2 The following shall be regarded as good cause, in particular: a disability, illness or other restriction leading to a substantial impairment of the ability to learn a language. 70 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 50 Dissolution of the family household
1 After the dissolution of the marriage or of the family household, the right of a spouse and the children to be granted a residence permit and to have their residence permit extended in accordance with Articles 42 and 43 subsists if:
2 There are important personal reasons in terms of paragraph 1 letter b in particular if a spouse has been the victim of marital violence or did not marry of his or her own free will and social reintegration in the country of origin appears to be seriously prejudiced.72 3 The time limit for being granted a settlement permit is governed by Article 34. 71 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 72 Amended by No I 1 of the FA of 15 June 2012 on Measures against Forced Marriages, in force since 1 July 2013 (AS 2013 1035; BBl 2011 2185). |
Art. 51 Expiry of the right to family reunification
1 The rights in terms of Article 42 expire if:
2 The rights in terms of Articles 43, 48 and 50 expire if:
73 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Chapter 8 Integration |
Section 1 Encouraging Integration 74
74 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 53 Principles 75
1 In fulfilling their tasks, the Confederation, cantons and communes shall take account of integration concerns and of protection against discrimination. 2 They shall create favourable regulatory conditions for equal opportunities and for the participation of the foreign population in public life. They shall make use of the potential of the foreign population, take account of diversity and encourage individual responsibility. 3 They shall in particular encourage foreign nationals to develop their language skills and other basic skills, to advance professionally and to take preventive health care measures; they shall also support efforts that facilitate co-existence and mutual understanding between the Swiss and the foreign population. 4 The authorities of the Confederation, cantons and communes, social partners, non-governmental organisations and expatriate’ organisations shall cooperate to encourage integration. 5 The cantonal social assistance authorities shall register recognised refugees and temporarily admitted persons who are unemployed with the public employment agencies. 75 Amended by No III 1 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 53a Target groups 76
1 The Federal Council shall determine which groups of persons require integration support. It shall consult the cantons and the communal associations in advance. 2 Priority shall be given to addressing the concerns related to the integration of women, children and young people. 76 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 54 Integration support within standard structures 77
Integration support shall be provided within existing standard structures at federal, cantonal and communal level, namely:
77 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 55 Specific approaches to integration support 78
The specific approaches to encouraging integration at federal, cantonal and communal level shall complement the integration support provided in the standard structures in cases where such support is not accessible or where there are gaps in provision. 78 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 55a Measures for persons with special integration needs 79
The cantons shall provide appropriate integration measures for persons with special integration needs as soon as possible. The Confederation supports the cantons in this task. 79 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 56 Allocation of tasks 80
1 The Federal Council shall determine the integration policy within the remit of the Confederation. It shall ensure that the federal offices, together with the competent cantonal authorities, take measures to encourage integration and to prevent discrimination. 2 SEM shall coordinate the measures by the federal offices to encourage integration and to prevent discrimination, in particular in the areas of social security, vocational education and training, continuing education, and healthcare. The federal offices shall involve SEM in activities that may have an impact on integration. 3 SEM shall ensure there is an exchange of information and experiences with the cantons, communes and other parties involved. 4 The cantons shall determine the integration policy within their remit. They shall ensur that the cantonal authorities, together with the competent communal authorities, take measures to encourage integration and to prevent discrimination. They are SEM’s contact points for integration issues and shall ensure there is an exchange of information and experiences with the communes. 5 In cooperation with the cantons, SEM shall periodically review the integration of the foreign population and guarantee quality assurance in the measures to encourage integration. 80 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 57 Provision of information and advice 81
1 The Confederation, cantons and communes shall provide information and advice to foreign nationals on living and working conditions in Switzerland, and in particular on their rights and obligations. 2 The competent authorities shall provide foreign nationals with information on programmes for encouraging integration. 3 The cantons are responsible for providing initial information to foreign nationals who have newly arrived from abroad. The Confederation shall support the cantons in this task. 4 The Confederation, cantons and communes shall inform the population about integration policy and the special situation of foreign nationals. 5 The Confederation, cantons and communes may delegate the tasks set out in paragraphs 1–4 to third parties. 81 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 58 Financial contributions 82
1 The Confederation shall grant financial contributions to promote integration in accordance with paragraphs 2 and 3. These contributions supplement the payments made by the cantons to promote integration. It shall in particular subsidise projects that support the acquisition of a national language. Contributions are normally only granted if the cantons, communes or third parties share the costs appropriately. 2 The contributions for temporarily admitted persons, recognised refugees and vulnerable persons with residence permits whose social assistance costs are reimbursed to the cantons by the Confederation under Article 87 of this Act and Articles 88 and 89 of the AsylA83 shall be granted to the cantons as flat-rate payments for integration or funding for cantonal integration programmes. They may be made dependent on the achievement of socio-political goals and be restricted to specific groups. 3 The other contributions shall be granted for funding cantonal integration programmes and programmes and projects of national importance that help to promote the integration of foreign nationals irrespective of their status. The coordination and conduct of programme and project activities may be delegated to third parties. 4 The Federal Council shall fix the level of the federal contributions under paragraphs 2 and 3. 5 The Federal Council, in consultation with the cantons, shall indicate the areas requiring aid and regulate the details of the procedure under paragraphs 2 and 3. 82 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Section 2 Integration Requirements84
84 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 58a Integration criteria
1 When assessing integration, the competent authority shall take the following criteria into account:
2 Due account shall be taken of the situation of persons who because of disability or illness or other important personal circumstances are unable to meet or have difficulty meeting the integration criteria referred to in paragraph 1 letters c and d. 3 The Federal Council shall determine which language skills are required when granting or renewing a permit. |
Art. 58b Agreements and recommendations relating to integration
1 The integration agreement sets out the objectives, measures and time frame for individually agreed integration support. It also regulates financing. 2 In particular, it may contain objectives for acquiring language skills, for integration at school or at work, for economic integration and for acquiring knowledge of living conditions, the economic system and the legal system in Switzerland. 3 If the competent authorities require the conclusion of an integration agreement, the residence permit shall not be issued or renewed until the agreement has been concluded. 4 The competent authorities may issue recommendations to persons to whom Article 2 paragraphs 2 and 3 and Article 42 apply. |
Chapter 9 Travel Documents and Ban on Travel 85
85 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 59 Issue of travel documents 86
1 SEM may issue travel documents87 to foreign nationals without identification documents. 2 Foreign nationals are entitled to travel documents if:
3 Any person who has seriously or repeatedly violated or represents a threat to public security and order in Switzerland or abroad, or who represents a threat to Switzerland’s internal or external security, or who is subject to a legally enforceable order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abisSCC90 or Article 49a or 49abis MCC91 does not have a right to travel documents.92 4 ...93 5and6 ...94 86 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 87 Term in accordance with No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). This amendment has been made throughout the text. 92 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 93 Repealed by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), with effect from 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 94 Inserted by Art. 2 No 2 of the FD of 13 June 2008 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU on Biometric Passports and Travel Documents (AS 2009 5521, 2011 4033; BBl 2007 5159). Repealed by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), with effect from 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 59a Data chip 95
1 Travel documents for foreign nationals may be furnished with a data chip. The data chip may contain a digitalised facial image, the fingerprints of the holder and further personal data, as well as details of the travel document. The data specified in Article 4 paragraph 1 letter g of the Federal Act of 20 June 200396 on the Information System on Matters relating to Foreign Nationals and Asylum may also be stored on the chip. Article 2a of the Federal Identity Documents Act of 22 June 200197 (IDA) applies mutatis mutandis. 2 The Federal Council shall determine the types of travel documents for foreign nationals that will be furnished with a data chip and what data is to be stored thereon. 95 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 59b Biometric data 98
1 The task of recording biometric data and forwarding identity card data to the issuing body may be delegated wholly or in part to third parties. Article 6a IDA99 applies by analogy. 2 SEM and the cantonal authorities responsible for dealing with applications for the issue of travel documents may process biometric data already recorded in the Central Migration Information System (ZEMIS) in order to issue or renew a travel document. 3 The biometric data required for the issue of a travel document shall be updated every five years. The Federal Council may specify a shorter period for the updating of data if this is required due to changes in the facial features of the person concerned. 98 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 59c Travel ban for refugees 100
1 Refugees are forbidden to travel to their native country or country of origin. If there is a justified suspicion that this ban on travel will be disregarded, SEM may ban all refugees from the native country or country of origin concerned from travelling to other states, and in particular to states neighbouring their native country or country of origin. 2 SEM may authorise a person to travel to a state subject to a travel ban in accordance with paragraph 1 second sentence if there is good cause for doing so. 100 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Arrangements and Information Systems), in force since 1 April 2020 (AS 2019 1413, 2020 881; BBl 2018 1685). |
Chapter 10 End of the Period of Stay |
Section 1 Return and Reintegration Assistance |
Art. 60
1 The Confederation may facilitate the independent and proper exit of foreign nationals by providing return and reintegration assistance. 2 The following persons may claim return and reintegration assistance:
3 Return and reintegration assistance includes:
4 The Federal Council shall regulate the requirements and the procedure regarding the payment and accounting of the contributions. 101 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 103 Amended by No IV 2 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2005, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2006 4745,2007 5573; BBl 2002 3709). |
Section 2 Expiry and Revocation of Permits and Expiry of Right of Residence 104
104 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). |
Art. 61 Expiry of permits
1 A permit expires:
2 If a foreign national leaves Switzerland without giving notice of departure, a short stay permit expires after three months, and a residence or settlement permit after six months. On request, a settlement permit may remain valid for a further four years. 105 Inserted by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). Amended by No IV 3 of the FA of 19 June 2015 (Amendment to the Law of Criminal Sanctions), in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 1249; BBl 2012 4721). 108 Inserted by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). |
Art. 61a Expiry of the right of residence of EU and EFTA citizens 109
1 The right of residence of citizens of EU and EFTA member states with a short-stay permit shall expire six months after the involuntary termination of their employment. The right of residence of citizens of EU and EFTA member states with a residence permit shall expire six months after the involuntary termination of their employment if employment ends within the first twelve months of their residence. 2 If unemployment benefit continues to be paid on expiry of the six-month period in accordance with paragraph 1, the right of residence expires when the benefit is no longer paid. 3 There is no right to social assistance in the period from the termination of employment until the expiry of the right of residence in accordance with paragraphs 1 and 2. 4 In the event of involuntary termination of employment following the first twelve months of residence, the right of residence of citizens of EU and EFTA member states with a residence permit expires six months after the termination of their employment. If unemployment benefit continues to be paid on expiry of this six-month period, the right of residence expires six months after the benefit is no longer paid. 5 Paragraphs 1–4 do not apply in the event of termination of employment due to temporary unfitness for work because of illness, accident or invalidity, nor in the case of persons who hold a right to remain under the Agreement of 21 June 1999110 on Freedom of Movement (AFMP) between the Swiss Confederation on the one hand and the European Community and their Member States on the other or under the Convention of 4 January 1960111 establishing the European Free Trade Association (EFTA Convention). 109 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). |
Art. 62 Revocation of permits and other rulings 112
1 The competent authority may revoke permits, with the exception of a settlement permit, and other rulings under this Act if the foreign national:
2 Revocation is not permitted if justified solely by conviction for an offence for which a sentence or measure has been imposed, where the court has refrained from imposing an order for expulsion from Switzerland. 112 Amended by No IV 3 of the FA of 19 June 2015 (Amendment to the Law of Criminal Sanctions), in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 1249; BBl 2012 4721). 114 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the Swiss Citizenship Act of 20 June 2014, in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 2561; BBl 2011 2825). 116 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). Correction by the FA Drafting Committee of 10 Aug. 2018, published on 18 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3213). |
Art. 63 Revocation of a settlement permit
1 A settlement permit may be revoked only if:
2 A settlement permit may be revoked and replaced by a residence permit if the residence criteria referred to in Article 58a have not been met.121 3 Revocation is not permitted if justified solely by conviction for an offence for which a sentence or measure has been imposed, where the court has refrained from imposing an order for expulsion from Switzerland.122 117 Amended by No IV 3 of the FA of 19 June 2015 (Amendment to the Law of Criminal Sanctions), in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 1249; BBl 2012 4721). 118 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the Swiss Citizenship Act of 20 June 2014, in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 2561; BBl 2011 2825). 120 Originally: let. d. Repealed by No IV 3 of the FA of 19 June 2015 (Amendment to the Law of Criminal Sanctions), with effect from 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 1249; BBl 2012 4721). 121 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 122 Inserted by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). |
Section 3 Procedures to Remove and Keep People Away |
Art. 64 Removal order 123
1 The competent authorities shall issue an ordinary removal order if:
2 Where foreign nationals who are illegally resident in Switzerland hold a valid residence document for another State that is bound by one of the Schengen-Association Agreements124 (a Schengen State), they must be requested without any formal procedure to proceed immediately to that State. If they fail to comply with this request, an order in accordance with paragraph 1 must be issued. If immediate departure is required on grounds of public security and order or internal or external security, an order must be issued without a prior request to leave. 3 An appeal against orders under paragraph 1 letters a and b must be filed within five working days of notification of the order. The appeal does not have suspensive effect. The appellate authority shall decide within ten days on whether suspensive effect will apply. 4 The competent cantonal authorities shall immediately appoint a representative for any unaccompanied minor foreign national to safeguard the minor's interests during the removal proceedings. 5 The Federal Council shall determine the role, responsibilities and duties of the representative mentioned in paragraph 4.125 123 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 124 These Agreements are listed in Annex 1 No 1. 125 Inserted by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). |
Art. 64a Removal under the Dublin Association Agreements 126
1 If a different state that is bound by one of the Dublin Association Agreements (para. 4) is responsible for conducting an asylum procedure on the basis of Regulation (EC) No. 604/2013127 (Dublin State), SEM shall issue a removal order against a person who is residing illegally in Switzerland.128 2 An appeal must be filed within five working days of notification of the order. The appeal does not have suspensive effect. The foreign national may apply for the order to be suspended within the deadline for filing the appeal. The Federal Administrative Court shall decide on the matter within five days of receipt of the application. If the removal order is not suspended within this period, it may be enforced. 3 The canton of residence of the foreign national concerned is responsible for the enforcement of the removal order and, if necessary, for the payment and funding of social and emergency assistance. 3bis In the case of unaccompanied minors, Article 64 paragraph 4 applies.129 4 The Dublin Association Agreements are listed in Annex 1 no. 2. 126 Inserted by No 1 of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 127 Council Regulation (EC) No 604/2013 of 26 June 2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an asylum application lodged in one of the Member States by a third-country national; (new version), Amended by OJ L 180 of 29.6.2013, p. 31. 128 Amended by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 129 Inserted by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). |
Art. 64b Removal order on standard form 130
Where a person has entered Switzerland illegally, they are notified of the removal order by means of a standard form. 130 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 64c Removal without formal procedure 131
1 Foreign nationals shall be removed without being subjected to any formal procedure if:
2 If requested immediately by the person concerned, an order shall be issued on a standard form (Art. 64b). 131 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 132 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). 133 See footnote to Art. 7 para. 3. |
Art. 64d Departure deadline and immediate enforcement 134
1 On issuing the removal order, an appropriate departure deadline of between seven and thirty days must be set. A longer period must be set or the departure deadline extended if special circumstances such as the family situation, health problems or a long period of stay so require. 2 The removal order must be enforced immediately or a departure deadline of less than seven days may be set where:
3 The following specific indications in particular lead to the belief that a person intends to evade deportation:
134 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 135 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). 136 See footnote to Art. 7 para. 3. 137 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 64e Obligations on giving notice of a removal order 138
On giving notice of a removal order, the competent authority may require the foreign national concerned:
138 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 64f Translation of the removal order 139
1 The competent authority shall ensure that, if requested, the removal order is translated in writing or verbally into a language understood by the person concerned or which he or she may be assumed to understand. 2 If notice is given of the removal order by means of a standard form under Article 64b, no translation is made. The person concerned shall be provided with an information sheet with an explanation of the removal order. 139 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 65 Refusal of entry and removal at the airport 140
1 If entry is refused at the border control at the airport, the foreign national must leave Switzerland immediately. 2 The authority responsible for the border control shall on SEM’s behalf issue a reasoned and appealable decision within 48 hours on a form in accordance with Annex V Part B of the Schengen Borders Code141. A written objection may be filed with SEM against this decision within 48 hours of notification thereof. The objection does not have suspensive effect. SEM shall decide on the objection within 48 hours.142 2bis An appeal may be filed against SEM’s objection decision within 48 hours of notification thereof. The appeal does not have suspensive effect. The appellate authority shall decide on the appeal within 72 hours.143 3 Persons subject to a removal order are permitted to remain in the airport international transit zone for a maximum of 15 days in order to prepare for their onward journey, provided deportation (Article 69) or detention pending deportation or coercive detention (Art. 76, 77 and 78) is not ordered. The provisions on temporary admission (Article 83) and on the filing of an asylum application (Article 22 AsylA144) are reserved.145 140 Amended by Art. 2 of the FD of 13 June 2008 on the Approval and the Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the European Community on the Acceptance of the Schengen Borders Code, in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 56295405Art. 2 let. b; BBl 2007 7937). 141 Regulation (EU) 2016/399 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 establishing a Community Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code), OJ. L 77 of 23.3.2016, p. 1; last amended by Regulation (EU) 2017/458, OJ. L 74 of 18.03.2017, p. 1. 142 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 143 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 145 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). |
Art. 66146
146 Repealed by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), with effect from 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 67 Ban on entry 147
1 SEM shall, subject to paragraph 5, order a ban on entry against foreign nationals who have been issued with a removal order if:
2 A ban on entry may be ordered against foreign nationals who:
3 The ban on entry shall be ordered for a maximum duration of five years. It may be ordered for a longer period if the person concerned represents a serious risk to public security or order. 4 The Federal Office of Police (fedpol) may order a ban on the entry of any foreign national in order to safeguard Switzerland’s internal or external security; it shall consult the Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) beforehand. fedpol may order a ban on entry for a period of more than five years or in serious cases for an unlimited period. 5 The authority issuing the ban on entry may by way of exception refrain from imposing a ban on entry on humanitarian grounds or for other good cause or revoke the ban permanently or temporarily. In reaching its decision, the authority must in particular consider whether grounds for issuing the ban on entry and the need to protect public security and order and to safeguard Switzerland’s internal or external security outweigh the private interests of the person concerned in not being subject to the ban.150 147 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 148 Amended by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). 149 Amended by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). 150 Amended by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). |
Art. 68 Expulsion
1 fedpol may order the expulsion of a foreign national in order to safeguard the internal or the external security of Switzerland; it shall consult the FIS beforehand.151 2 In cases of expulsion, an appropriate departure deadline must be set. 3 An expulsion order shall be combined with a limited or unlimited ban on entry. The authority issuing the order may temporarily revoke the ban on entry for good cause. 4 If the person concerned has seriously or repeatedly violated or represents a threat to public security and order or represents a threat to internal or external security, expulsion may be enforced immediately. 151 Amended by No I 2 of the O of 12 Dec. 2008 on the Amendment of Statutory Provisions due to the Transfer of the Intelligence Units of the Service for Analysis and Prevention to the DDPS, in force since 1 Jan. 2009 (AS 2008 6261). |
Art. 68a Alert in the Schengen Information System 152
1 The competent authority shall enter in the Schengen Information System (SIS) the data on third-country citizens subject to any of the following return decisions:
2 Data on third-country citizens against whom bans on entry in accordance with Articles 67 and 68 paragraph 3 and an order for expulsion from Switzerland have been issued shall entered by the competent authority in the SIS provided the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2018/1861156 have been met. 3 SEM may supply biometric data to the SIS that is already available in the automated fingerprint identification system under Article 354 SCC (AFIS) or in ZEMIS. The supply of data may be automated. 4 The competent authorities for issuing an alert on decisions in accordance with paragraphs 1 and 2 shall record in ZEMIS the personal data of the person to whom the alert relates. If the facial image and the fingerprints are not already available, they shall record these data in AFIS for delivery to the SIS or have the data recorded there by the authorities entitled to do so. 5 In connection with its alerts, fedpol may supply biometric data to the SIS that is already available in the AFIS. The supply of data may be automated. If no biometric data are available, fedpol may order the retroactive recording of the data from the authorities that detect a hit on these alerts. 6 The Federal Council shall regulate the procedure and responsibilities for recording and transmitting the data in accordance with paragraphs 1–5 for the purpose of alerts in the SIS. It may provide for exceptions to the requirement to record and deliver data with regard to biometric data. 152 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FedD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism and its Additional Protocol and the Strengthening of Criminal Justice Instruments for combating Terrorism and Organised Crime (SIS), para. 3 and 5 in force since 1 July 2021 and para. 1, 24 and 6 in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). 156 Regulation (EU) 2018/1861 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 November 2018 on the establishment, operation and use of the Schengen Information System (SIS) in the field of border checks, and amending the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement, and amending and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1987/2006, last amended by OJ. L 312 of 7.12.2018, p. 14. |
Art. 68b Competent authority 157
1 Additional information in connection with an alert in accordance with Article 68a paragraphs 1 and 2 shall be exchanged between the Schengen States via the contact, coordination and consultation point for the exchange of information in connection with alerts in the SIS (SIRENE Office). 2 If the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security158 and the cantonal police authorities responsible for controlling the Schengen external borders or in Switzerland establish that a third-country national subject to an alert from another Schengen State for the purpose of return has not complied with their obligation to return, they shall notify the SIRENE Office. 3 If a consultation with the competent authorities of other Schengen States is required in connection with an alert in the SIS, this shall take place via the SIRENE Office. 157 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). 158 The name of this administrative unit was changed in application of Art. 20 para. 2 of the Publications Ordinance of 7 Oct. 2015 (SR 170.512.1). |
Art. 68c Exit and confirmation of return 159
1 If the third-country national subject to an alert in the SIS from another Schengen State for the purpose of return leaves the Schengen area, the competent border control authority shall issue a confirmation of return to the SIRENE Offices. The SIRENE Office shall transmit the confirmation to the Schengen State issuing the alert for the purpose of deleting the alert for return in the SIS. 2 The SIRENE Office shall forward confirmations of return from other Schengen States to the authority issuing the alert in Switzerland for the purpose of deleting the alert. 159 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). |
Art. 68d Deletion of Swiss alerts in the SIS 160
1 Alerts in accordance with Article 68a paragraph 1 shall be deleted by the authority issuing the alert as soon as:
2 The deleting of alerts on return in the SIS in accordance with Article 68a paragraph 1 shall be carried out by the competent border control authority as soon as the person subject to the alert leaves the Schengen area via Switzerland. 3 Alerts for refusal of entry or stay in accordance with Article 68aparagraph 2 shall be deleted by the authority issuing the alert as soon as:
4 When deleting alerts on return in accordance with paragraph 1 letter a or paragraph 2, if applicable an alert for refusal of entry or stay shall be immediately activated in the SIS. 160 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). |
Art. 68e Disclosure of SIS data to third parties 161
1 The data stored in the SIS and the related supplementary information shall not be transmitted to third countries, international organisations, private bodies or natural persons. 2 SEM may transmit these data and information to a third country if, in relation to the return of a person from a third country who is staying illegally in Switzerland, this person is to be identified or issued with a travel document or identity document, provided the State issuing the alert has given its consent and the requirements of Article 15 of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1860162 have been met. 161 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). 162 Regulation (EU) 2018/1860 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 November 2018 on the use of the Schengen Information System for the return of illegally staying third-country nationals, last amended by OJ. L 312 of 7.12.2018, p. 1. |
Section 4 Deportation and International Return Interventions 163
163 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). |
Art. 69 Ordering deportation
1 The competent cantonal authority shall deport foreign nationals if:
2 In the case of foreign nationals who are able to travel lawfully to more than one state, the competent authority may deport them to the country of their choice. 3 The competent authority may postpone deportation for an appropriate period if special circumstances such as the ill-health of the person concerned or a lack of transport so require. The competent authority shall confirm the postponement of deportation to the person concerned in writing.167 4 The competent authority shall ensure before the deportation of unaccompanied foreign minors that he or she will be returned in the State of return to a family member, a nominated guardian or reception facilities that guarantee the protection of the child.168 164 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 167 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 168 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 70 Search
1 During expulsion or removal proceedings, the competent cantonal authority may arrange for the person concerned as well as the belongings they are carrying to be searched in order to seize travel and identity documents. The search may be conducted only by a person of the same sex. 2 If the court of first instance has issued a decision, the judicial authority may order a search of a dwelling or of other premises if it is suspected that a person subject to a removal or expulsion order may be hiding there, or that travel and identity documents required for the procedure and enforcement are hidden there.169 169 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). |
Art. 71 Federal support for the implementation authorities
1 The Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP) shall support the cantons responsible for enforcing the removal or the expulsion of foreign nationals or the enforcement of an order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC170 or Article 49a or 49abis MCC171, in particular by:172
2 In fulfilling its tasks under paragraph 1, in particular letters a and b, the FDJP may work with the European Union agency responsible for the surveillance of the Schengen external borders.174 172 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). 173 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 174 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FD of 1 Oct. 2021 relating to the adoption of Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 on the European Border and Coast Guard, in force since 1 Sept. 2022 (AS 2022 462; BBl 2020 7105). |
Art. 71a International return interventions 175
1 SEM and the cantons shall work together in the case of international return interventions on the basis of Regulation (EU) 2019/1896176; they shall provide the required personnel. The Confederation shall make compensatory payments to the cantons for these interventions. The Federal Council shall regulate the amount and modalities of these compensatory payments.177 2 The FDJP may enter into agreements with the competent European Union agency for the surveillance of the Schengen external borders relating to the deployment of personnel from SEM and the cantons in connection with international return interventions and the deployment of third parties to monitor returns. 3 The FDJP shall enter into an agreement with the cantons on the modalities of the deployment of personnel. 175 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC-Return Directive (Directive 2008/115/EG) (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). 176 See footnote to Art. 7 para. 1bis. 177 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 1 Oct. 2021 relating to the adoption of Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 on the European Border and Coast Guard, in force since 1 Sept. 2022 (AS 2022 462; BBl 2020 7105). |
Art. 71abis Supervision of deportation procedures and international return interventions 178
1 The Federal Council shall regulate the procedure and the responsibilities for supervising deportation procedures and international return interventions. 2 It may delegate tasks relating to the supervision of deportation procedures and international return interventions to third parties. 178 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). |
Art. 71b Disclosure of medical data for the assessment of fitness to travel 179
1 The attending medical professional shall on request disclose the medical data required to assess the fitness to travel of persons subject to a legally binding removal or expulsion order to the following authorities insofar as these authorities require the data to fulfil their statutory duties:
2 The Federal Council regulates the retention and deletion of the data. 179 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 3101, 2017 6171; BBl 2014 7991). |
Art. 72 COVID-19 test on deportation 180
1 In order to ensure the enforcement of removal or expulsion or expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC181 or Article 49a or 49abis MCC182, foreign nationals are required to undergo a COVID-19 test if this is necessary in order to comply with the entry requirements of the person's native country or country of origin or of the competent Dublin State or the requirements of the airline concerned. 2 The competent authorities shall inform the person concerned in advance about this requirement and about the possibility of the compulsory conduct of tests under paragraph 3. 3 If the person concerned refuses to undergo a COVID-19 test, the competent authorities for the enforcement of removal or expulsion or expulsion from Switzerland may conduct the test against the person's will, unless deportation can be enforced by other less stringent means. While conducting the test, no force may be used that could endanger the health of the person concerned. The compulsory conduct of COVID-19 tests is not permitted in the case of children and young persons under the age of 15. 4 The COVID-19 tests shall be conducted by medical personnel who have been specifically trained for the purpose. They shall use the least invasive form of test suitable for the person concerned. If the personnel take the view that conducting the test could harm the health of the person concerned, they shall not conduct the test. 180 Amended by No I of the FA of 1 Oct. 2021, in force since 2 Oct. 2021 to 31 Dec. 2022 (AS 2021 587; BBl 2021 1901), extended from 17 Dec. 2022 to 30 June 2024 in accordance with No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2022 (Covid-19 Test on Deportation) (AS 2022 818; BBl 2022 1359). |
Section 5 Coercive Measures |
Art. 73 Temporary detention
1 The competent authority of the Confederation or the canton may detain persons who do not hold a short stay, residence or settlement permit:
2 The person may be detained only for the duration of the required cooperation or questioning and the required transport if necessary, and for a maximum of three days. 3 If a person is detained, they must:
4 If detention is expected last longer than 24 hours, the person concerned shall be given the opportunity beforehand to attend to or have someone else attend to urgent personal matters. 5 On request, the competent judicial authority must review the legality of the detention. 6 The duration of detention shall not be deducted from the duration of any detention pending deportation, in preparation for departure, or coercive detention. |
Art. 74 Restriction and exclusion orders
1 The competent cantonal authority may require a person not to leave the area they were allocated to or not to enter a specific area if:
1bis The competent cantonal authority shall require a person who is accommodated in a special centre under Article 24aAsylA185 not to leave the area they were allocated to or not to enter a specific area.186 2 These measures shall be ordered by the authority of the canton that is responsible for the implementation of removal or expulsion. In the case of persons staying in federal centres, the canton where the centre is located is responsible. The prohibition from entering a specific area may also be issued by the authority of the canton where this area is located.187 3 Appeals may be lodged with a cantonal judicial authority against the ordering of these measures. The appeal has no suspensive effect. 183 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 184 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 186 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 187 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). |
Art. 75 Detention in preparation for departure
1 To facilitate the conduct of removal or expulsion proceedings or criminal proceedings in which the potential penalty includes an order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC188 or Article 49a or 49abis MCC189, the competent cantonal authority may detain a person who does not hold a short stay, residence or settlement permit while preparing to decide on that person’s residence status for a maximum of six months if that person:190
2 The competent authority shall decide on the residence status of the person held in detention without delay. 190 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 191 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 192 Inserted by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 193 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC) (AS 20105925; BBl 20098881). Repealed by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), with effect from 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675) |
Art. 76 Detention pending deportation
1 If the court of first instance has issued an expulsion or removal order or an order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC194 or Article 49aor 49abis MCC195, the competent authority may ensure the enforcement of the decision by:196
1bis The detention order in Dublin cases is governed by Article 76a.203 2 Detention in terms of paragraph 1 letter b number 5 may last a maximum of 30 days.204 3 The days in detention count towards the maximum duration in terms of Article 79.205 4 The required arrangements for the enforcement of the removal, expulsion or the order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC or Article 49a or 49abis MCC must be taken without delay.206 196 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 197 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 198 Repealed by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, with effect from 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). 199 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 201 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 202 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC) (AS 20105925; BBl 20098881). Repealed by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), with effect from 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 203 Inserted by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 204 Amended by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 205 Amended by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 206 Amended by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). |
Art. 76a Detention under the Dublin procedure 207
1 The competent authority may order the detention of the foreign national concerned to ensure removal to the Dublin State responsible for the asylum proceedings, if in the case concerned:
2 The following specific indications suggest that the person concerned intends to evade removal:
3 The person concerned may remain or be placed in detention from the date of the detention order for a maximum duration of:
4 If a person refuses to board the means of transport being used to effect the transfer to the competent Dublin State, or if they prevent the transfer in any other way through their personal conduct, they may, in order to guarantee the transfer, be placed in detention if a detention order under paragraph 3 letter c is no longer possible and a less restrictive measure will not achieve a satisfactory result. The person may be detained until transfer is again possible, but no longer than six weeks. The period of detention may be extended with the consent of a judicial authority if the person concerned remains unprepared to modify their conduct. The maximum duration of this period of detention is three months. 5 The days in detention count towards the maximum duration in terms of Article 79. 207 Inserted by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 208 See footnote to Art. 64a para. 1. 210 Inserted by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 211 Commission Regulation (EC) No 1560/2003 of 2 Sept. 2003 laying down detailed rules for the application of Council Regulation (EC) No 343/2003 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an asylum application lodged in one of the Member States by a third-country national, OJ L 222 of 5.9.2003, p. 3. |
Art. 77 Detention pending deportation due to lack of cooperation in obtaining travel documents
1 The competent cantonal authority may detain a person to ensure the enforcement of their removal or expulsion if:
2 Detention may last a maximum of 60 days. 3 The required arrangements for the enforcement of the removal or expulsion must be made without delay. |
Art. 78 Coercive detention
1 If a person does not fulfil their obligation to leave Switzerland by the appointed deadline and if the legally enforceable removal or expulsion order or legally enforceable order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC212 or Article 49a or 49abis MCC213 cannot be enforced due to their personal conduct, they may be detained to ensure the obligation to leave Switzerland is complied with, provided it is not permitted to order detention pending deportation and a more lenient measure would lead to the goal.214 2 Detention may be ordered for one month. It may, however, be extended by two months with consent of the cantonal judicial authority if the person concerned remains unwilling to change their conduct and leave the country. Article 79 remains reserved.215 3 Detention and its extension are ordered by the authorities of the canton which is responsible for enforcing the removal or expulsion order. If the person concerned is already in detention based on Articles 75, 76 or 77, they may be left in detention if the requirements of paragraph 1 are fulfilled.216 4 The first-time detention order must be reviewed at the latest after 96 hours by a judicial authority on the basis of an oral hearing. At the request of the detainee, the extension of detention must be reviewed by the judicial authority within eight working days on the basis of an oral hearing. The power of review is governed by Article 80 paragraphs 2 and 4. 5 The conditions of detention are governed by Article 81. 6 The detention order is revoked if:
214 Amended by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). 215 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 216 Amended by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). |
Art. 79 Maximum term of detention 217
1 Detention in preparation for departure, detention pending deportation in accordance with Articles 75–77 and coercive detention in accordance with Article 78 must not together exceed the maximum term of detention of six months. 2 The maximum term of detention may be extended with the consent of the cantonal judicial authority for a specific period, but in no case for more than twelve months and in the case of minors aged between 15 and 18, by a maximum of six months where:
217 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 80 Detention order and detention review
1 Detention shall be ordered by the authorities of the canton responsible for enforcing the removal or expulsion order. In the case of persons staying in federal centres, the canton where the centre is located is responsible for ordering detention in preparation for departure. In cases covered by Article 76 paragraph 1 letter b number 5, detention shall be ordered by the canton where the centre is located.218 1bis In cases under Article 76 paragraph 1 letter b number 5, detention is ordered by the canton in which the federal centres are located; if in accordance with Article 46 paragraph 1bis third sentence AsylA219 a canton other than the canton where the centres are located is responsible for executing removal, that canton is also responsible for ordering detention.220 2 The legality and the appropriateness of detention must be reviewed at the latest within 96 hours by a judicial authority on the basis of an oral hearing. If detention pending deportation has been ordered in accordance with Article 77, the detention review procedure shall be carried out in writing.221 2bis In the case of detention under Article 76 paragraph 1 letter b number 6, the legality and the appropriateness of detention shall be reviewed at the request of the detainee by a judicial authority in a written procedure. This review may be requested at any time.222 3 The judicial authority may dispense with an oral hearing if deportation is anticipated within eight days of the detention order and the person concerned has expressed their consent in writing. If deportation cannot be carried out by this deadline, an oral hearing must be scheduled at the latest twelve days after the detention order. 4 When reviewing the decision to issue, extend or revoke a detention order, the judicial authority shall also take account of the detainee’s family circumstances and the circumstances behind the enforcement of detention. In no event may any detention order in preparation for departure, detention pending deportation or coercive detention be issued in respect of children or young people who have not yet attained the age of 15.223 5 The detainee may submit a request for release from detention one month after the detention review. The judicial authority must issue a decision on the request on the basis of an oral hearing within eight working days. A further request for release in the case of detention in accordance with Article 75 may be submitted after one month or in the case of detention in accordance with Article 76, after two months. 6 The detention order shall be revoked if:
218 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 220 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 221 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 222 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC) (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 223 Second sentence amended by No I of the FA of 26 Sept. 2014, in force since 1 March 2015 (AS 2015 533; BBl 20143373). |
Art. 80a Detention order and detention review under the Dublin procedure 224
1 The following authorities are responsible for issuing detention orders under Article 76a:
2 ...227 3 The legality and appropriateness of detention shall be reviewed at the request of the detainee by a judicial authority in a written procedure. This review may be requested at any time.228 4 The detainee may apply for release from detention at any time. The judicial authority must decide on the application within eight working days in a written procedure. 5 The detention of children and young persons under 15 years of age is not permitted. 6 In the case of a detention order in respect of an unaccompanied minor seeking asylum, the representative under Article 64a paragraph 3bis of this Act or under Article 17 paragraph 3 AsylA will be informed in advance. 7 The detention order shall be revoked if:
8 When reviewing the decision to issue, extend or revoke a detention order, the judicial authority shall also take account of the detainee’s family circumstances and the circumstances behind the enforcement of detention. 224 Inserted by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 225 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 227 Repealed by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, with effect from 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). 228 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 March 2019 (AS 2016 3101, 2018 2855; BBl 2014 7991). |
Art. 81 Conditions of detention 229
1 The cantons shall ensure that a person in Switzerland designated by the detainee is notified. Detainees may communicate with their legal representatives as well as with their family members and consular authorities both verbally and in writing. 2 Detention shall take place in detention facilities intended for the enforcement of preparatory detention, detention pending deportation and coercive detention. If this not possible in exceptional cases, in particular because of insufficient capacity, detained foreign nationals must be accommodated separately from persons in pre-trial detention or who are serving a sentence.230 3 The needs of vulnerable persons, unaccompanied minors and families with minor children must be taken into account in the detention arrangements.231 4 The detention arrangements are otherwise governed by:
5 The competent authority may order that the opportunities for detainees to have contact with specific persons or groups either directly or via third parties be restricted if:
6 If the restrictions under paragraph 5 prove inadequate to counter the risk to internal or external security, the competent authority may order solitary confinement.238 229 Amended by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 18 June 2010 on the Adoption of the EC Directive on the Return of Illegal Immigrants (Directive 2008/115/EC), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5925; BBl 2009 8881). 230 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 231 Amended by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 232 Directive 2008/115/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 Dec. 2008 on common standards and procedures in Member States for returning illegally staying third-country nationals, Amended by OJ L 348 of 24.12.2008, p. 98. 233 See footnote to Art. 64a para. 1. 234 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 236 Inserted by Annex No I 1 of the FD of 26 Sept. 2014 (Adoption of R[EU] No 604/2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection), in force since 1 July 2015 (AS 2015 1841; BBl 2014 2675). 237 Inserted by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 238 Inserted by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). |
Art. 82 Funding by the Confederation 239
1 The Confederation may wholly or partially finance the construction or establishment of cantonal detention centres that are used exclusively for detaining persons in preparation for departure or pending deportation, or placing persons in coercive detention or for short-term detention and which are of a certain size. The calculation of contributions and the procedure are governed mutatis mutandis by Sections 2 and 6 of the Federal Act of 5 October 1984240 on Federal Subsidies for the Execution of Sentences and Measures. 2 The Confederation shall contribute to the cantons’ operating costs for detaining persons in preparation for departure or pending deportation, or placing persons in coercive detention by making a flat-rate daily payment. The flat-rate payment shall be made in the case of:
239 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). |
Chapter 11 Temporary Admission |
Art. 83 Order for temporary admission
1 If the enforcement of removal is not possible, not permitted or not reasonable, SEM shall order temporary admission.242 2 Enforcement is not possible if the foreign national is unable to travel or be brought either to their native country or to their country of origin or a third country. 3 Enforcement is not permitted if Switzerland’s obligations under international law prevent the foreign national from making an onward journey to their native country, to their country of origin or to a third country. 4 Enforcement may be unreasonable for foreign nationals if they are specifically endangered by situations such as war, civil war, general violence and medical emergency in their native country or country of origin. 5 The Federal Council shall designate native countries or countries of origin or areas of these countries to which return is reasonable.243 If foreign nationals being removed come from one of these countries or from a member state of the EU or EFTA, enforcement of removal is reasonable.244 5bis The Federal Council shall periodically review the decision under paragraph 5.245 6 Temporary admission may be requested by the cantonal authorities. 7 Temporary admission shall not be ordered in terms of paragraphs 2 and 4 if the person removed:246
8 Refugees for whom there are reasons for refusing asylum in accordance with Articles 53 and 54 AsylA250 shall be granted temporary admission. 9 Temporary admission shall not be granted or shall expire if an order for expulsion from Switzerland under Article 66a or 66abis SCC or Article 49a or 49abis MCC251, or an expulsion order under Article 68 of this Act becomes legally enforceable.252 10 The cantonal authorities may conclude integration agreements with temporarily admitted persons if there is a special need for integration in accordance with the criteria set out in Article 58a.253 242 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 243 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). See also the transitional provision to this amendment at the end of the text. 244 Second sentence amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 245 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). See also the transitional provision to this amendment at the end of the text. 246 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 247 Amended by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). 249 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 252 Inserted by Annex No I of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain offences) (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 253 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 84 Termination of temporary admission
1 SEM periodically examines whether the requirements for temporary admission are still met. 2 SEM shall revoke temporary admission and order the enforcement of removal if the requirements no longer met.254 3 At the request of the cantonal authorities, fedpol or the FIS, SEM may revoke temporary admission due to the unreasonableness or impossibility of enforcement (Art. 83 paras 2 and 4) and order the enforcement of removal if there are grounds in terms of Article 83 paragraph 7.255 4 Temporary admission expires in the event of definitive departure, an unauthorised stay abroad of more than two months, or on the granting of a residence permit.256 5 Applications for a residence permit made by temporarily admitted foreign nationals who have resided in Switzerland for more than five years are closely examined relating to integration, family circumstances and the reasonableness of return to the country of origin. 254 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 255 Amended by No I 2 of the Ordinance of 12 Dec. 2008 on the Amendment of Statutory Provisions due to the Transfer of the Intelligence Units of the Service for Analysis and Prevention to the DDPS, in force since 1 Jan. 2009 (AS 2008 6261). 256 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). |
Art. 85 Regulation of temporary admission
1 The permit for temporarily admitted persons (Art. 41 para. 2) is issued by the canton of residence for a maximum of twelve months for control purposes and is extended subject to the reservation of Article 84. 2 For the allocation of temporarily admitted persons, Article 27 AsylA257 applies mutatis mutandis. 3 Temporarily admitted persons must submit their application to move to another canton to SEM. SEM shall make a final decision subject to the reservation of paragraph 4 on the change of canton after hearing the cantons concerned. 4 The decision on the change of canton may only be contested on the ground that it violates the principle of family unity. 5 Temporarily admitted persons are free to choose their place of residence within their current canton or the canton to which they are allocated. The cantonal authorities may allocate a place or residence or accommodation to temporarily admitted persons who are not recognised as refugees, and who are in receipt of social assistance.258 6 ...259 7 Spouses and unmarried children under 18 years of temporarily admitted persons and temporarily admitted refugees may be reunited with the temporarily admitted persons or refugees at the earliest three years after the order for temporary admission and included in that order if:
7bis In order to be granted temporary, it is sufficient to register for a language support programme as an alternative to meeting the requirement set out in under paragraph 7 letter d.263 7ter In the case of single children under the age of 18, the requirement set out in paragraph 7 letter d does not apply. The requirement of Article 49a paragraph 2 may be also waived for good cause.264 8 If, on assessing the reunification of spouses in accordance with Articles 42–45, SEM has reason to believe that there are grounds under Article 105 numbers 5 or 6 CC265 for the marriage to be annulled, they shall report this to the competent authority under Article 106 CC. The request for the reunification of spouses is suspended until this authority makes its decision. If the authority raises an action for annulment, the request is suspended until a legally binding judgment has been issued.266 258 Second sentence inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). 259 Repealed by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), with effect from 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 260 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 261 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 263 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 264 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 266 Inserted by No I 1 of the FA of 15 June 2012 on Measures against Forced Marriages, in force since 1 July 2013 (AS 2013 1035; BBl 2011 2185). |
Art. 85a Right to work 267
1 Temporarily admitted persons may work anywhere in Switzerland if the salary and employment conditions customary for the location, profession and sector are satisfied (Art. 22). 2 The employer must report the start or end of employment to the cantonal authority responsible for the place of work in advance. The report must, in particular, contain the following information:
3 The employer must include a declaration in the report, stating that he is aware of the salary and employment conditions customary for the location, profession and sector, and that he is committed to observing them. 4 The authority referred to in paragraph 2 shall immediately send a copy of the report to the supervisory bodies responsible for verifying compliance with the salary and employment conditions. 5 The Federal Council shall designate the competent supervisory bodies. 6 It shall regulate the reporting procedure. 267 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 86 Social assistance and health insurance
1 The cantons shall regulate the terms and the payment of social assistance and emergency aid for temporarily admitted persons. The provisions of Articles 80a–84 AsylA268 relating to asylum seekers apply. Support for temporarily admitted persons is normally provided in the form of benefits in kind. The level of support is less than that offered to persons resident in Switzerland.269 1bis The same provisions on social assistance standards apply to the following persons as for refugees who have been granted asylum in Switzerland:
2 In relation to compulsory health insurance for temporarily admitted persons, the corresponding provisions for asylum seekers in accordance with the AsylA and the Federal Act of 18 March 1994274 on Health Insurance apply. 269 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 270 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 273 Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). |
Art. 87 Federal subsidies
1 The Confederation pays the cantons:
2 The assumption of departure costs and payment of return assistance are governed by Articles 92 and 93 AsylA. 3 Flat-rate payments in terms of paragraph 1 letters a and b are made for a maximum of seven years after entry.282 4 Flat-rate payments in terms of paragraph 1 letter d are made for a maximum of five years after recognition of statelessness.283 275 Amended by Annex No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). 277 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 3101, 2017 6171; BBl 2014 7991). 278 Inserted by No IV 2 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2005, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2006 4745,2007 5573; BBl 2002 3709). 279 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015 (AS 2016 3101, 2017 6171; BBl 2014 7991). Amended by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). 282 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 3101, 2017 6171; BBl 2014 7991). 283 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2015, in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2016 3101, 2017 6171; BBl 2014 7991). |
Art. 88 Special charge on assets 284
1 Temporarily admitted persons shall be subject to the obligation to pay the special charge on assets in accordance with Article 86 AsylA285. The provisions of the 2nd section of Chapter 5, Chapter 10 and Article 112a of the AsylA apply. 2 The obligation to pay the special charge applies for a maximum of ten years from the date of entry. 284 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2018 (AS 2017 6521; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 88a Registered partnerships 286
The provisions of this Chapter on foreign spouses apply mutatis mutandis to registered same-sex partnerships. 286 Inserted by No I 1 of the FA of 15 June 2012 on Measures against Forced Marriages, in force since 1 July 2013 (AS 2013 1035; BBl 2011 2185). |
Chapter 12 Obligations |
Section 2 Obligations of Carriers 287
287 Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). |
Art. 92 Duty of care 288
1 Air carriers transporting persons must take all reasonable measures to ensure that they only transport persons who possess the required travel documents, visas and residence documents to enter the Schengen area or to travel through international transit zones of the airports. 2 The Federal Council shall regulate the extent of the duty of care. 288 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). |
Art. 93 Obligation to provide assistance and to cover costs 289
1 The air carrier is obliged at the request of the competent federal or cantonal authorities to provide immediate assistance to any passengers that it is carrying who are denied entry to the Schengen area.290 2 The obligation to provide assistance covers:
3 If the air carrier is unable to provide evidence that it has fulfilled its duty of care, it must additionally bear:291
4 Paragraph 3 does not apply if the person being transported has been granted entry to Switzerland in terms of Article 22 AsylA292. The Federal Council may provide for further exceptions, in particular for exceptional circumstances such as war or natural disasters.293 5 The Federal Council may stipulate a flat-rate charge based on the expected costs. 6 It may request security for the payment of costs. 289 Amended by Art. 127 below, in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). 290 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 291 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 293 Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). |
Art. 94 Cooperation with the authorities 294
1 The air carriers shall cooperate with the competent federal and cantonal authorities. The modalities of this cooperation may be stipulated in the operating licence or in an agreement between SEM and the carrier. 2 The following may also be stipulated in the operating licence or agreement in particular:
3 If special measures under paragraph 2 letter a are stipulated, the operating licence or the agreement may provide that any amount that an air carrier must pay under Article 122a paragraph 1 be reduced by up to a half. 294 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). |
Art. 95 Other carriers 295
The Federal Council may make other commercial carriers subject to Articles 92–94, 122a and 122c if Swiss national borders become a Schengen external border. In doing so, it shall take account of the requirements of Article 26 of the Convention of 19 June 1990296 implementing the Schengen Agreement (Schengen Convention). 295 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 296 Convention of 19 June 1990 implementing the Schengen Agreement of 14 June 1985 between the Governments of the States of the Benelux Economic Union, the Federal Republic of Germany and the French Republic on the gradual abolition of checks at their common borders, OJ. L 239 of 22.9.2000, p. 19. |
Section 3 Obligations of Airport Operators297
297 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). See also the transitional provisions to this Amendment at the end of this text. |
Chapter 13 Tasks and Responsibilities of the Authorities |
Art. 96 Exercise of discretion
1 In exercising discretion, the competent authorities shall take account of public interests and personal circumstances as well as the integration of foreign nationals.298 2 If a measure is competent, but the circumstances are not appropriate, the person concerned may be issued with a warning on pain of this penalty. 298 Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). |
Art. 97 Administrative assistance and disclosure of personal data 299
1 The authorities entrusted with the implementation of this Act shall support each other in the fulfilment of their tasks. They shall provide the required information and on request allow the inspection of official files. 2 Other authorities of the Confederation, the cantons and the communes are obliged to disclose data and information required for the implementation of this Act at the request of the authorities mentioned in paragraph 1. 3 The Federal Council shall determine what data must be reported to the authorities mentioned in paragraph 1 in the case of:
4 If an authority in accordance with paragraph 1 receives data pursuant to Article 26a SBA about a claim for supplementary benefits, it shall automatically notify the body responsible for determining and paying out the supplementary benefits of the possibility that the residence permit will not be extended or will be revoked.307 299 For data in connection with illegal employment, Arts. 11 and 12 of the FA of 17 June 2005 on Illegal Employment (SR 822.41) apply. 300 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 301 Inserted by No III 1 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 303 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 304 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 305 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012 (AS 2013 4375; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). Amended by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 306 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). Repealed by No III 1 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), with effect from 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 307 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Controlling Immigration and Improving Implementation of the Free Movement Agreements), in force since 1 July 2018 (AS 2018 733; BBl 2016 3007). |
Art. 98 Allocation of tasks
1 SEM is responsible for all tasks that are not expressly reserved to other federal authorities or the cantonal authorities. 2 The Federal Council shall regulate the entry and exit, admission as well as residency of the persons benefiting from privileges, immunities and facilities in accordance with Article 2 paragraph 2 of the Host State Act of 22 June 2007308.309 3 The cantons shall designate the authorities who are responsible for the tasks that have been entrusted to them. 309 Amended by Art. 35 of the Host State Act of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 20076637; BBl 20068017). |
Art. 98a Use of police control and restraint techniques and police measures by the enforcement authorities 310
The persons entrusted with the enforcement of this Act may use police control and restraint techniques and police measures in order to fulfil their duties, provided it is justified by the legal interests to be protected. The Use of Force Act of 20 March 2008311 applies. 310 Inserted by Annex No 2 of the Use of Force Act of 20 March 2008, in force since 1 Jan. 2009 (AS 20085463; BBl 20062489). |
Art. 98b Delegation of duties to third parties in the visa procedure 312
1 The FDFA in consultation with SEM may authorise third parties to carry out the following tasks in relation to the visa procedure:
2 The FDFA and SEM shall ensure that the third parties to whom duties are delegated comply with the regulations on data protection and security. 3 The Federal Council shall determine the conditions under which third parties may be delegated duties in accordance with paragraph 1. 312 Inserted by Art. 2 No 1 of the FD of 11 Dec. 2009 (Approval and Implementation of the Exchanges of Notes relating to the Visa Information System), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 20635761; BBl 2009 4245). |
Art. 98c Cooperation and coordination with fedpol 313
1 SEM shall work with fedpol within the scope of its statutory duties in relation to combating terrorism. 2 It shall coordinate the measures within its sphere of responsibility with fedpol’s preventive police and administrative measures. 313 Inserted by No I 2 of the FA of 25 Sept. 2020 on Police Counterterrorism Measures, in force since 1 June 2022 (AS 2021 565; 2022 300; BBl 2019 4751). |
Art. 98d Security duties of the migration authorities 314
SEM and the cantonal authorities that are responsible for implementing this Act shall assess within the scope of their duties and responsibilities whether foreign nationals pose a risk to Switzerland’s internal or external security or its international relations. In the case of police alerts, fedpol shall be notified. If required, further cantonal authorities that are involved may be notified. 314 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). |
Art. 99 Approval procedure 315
1 The Federal Council shall determine the cases in which the granting of short stay, residence and settlement permits and cantonal preliminary labour market decisions are to be submitted to SEM for approval. 2 SEM may refuse to approve the decision of a cantonal administrative or appellate authority or make the decision subject to a time limit or to conditions and requirements. 315 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 100 International agreements 316
1 The Federal Council shall encourage bilateral and multilateral migration partnerships with other states. It may conclude agreements to improve cooperation in the field of migration as well as to reduce illegal migration and its negative consequences. 2 The Federal Council may conclude agreements with foreign states or international organisations on:317
3 In the case of readmission and transit agreements, it may in terms of its responsibilities grant or withhold services and advantages. In doing so, it shall take account of obligations under international law as well as the all the relations Switzerland has with the affected state.318 4 The responsible departments may enter into agreements with foreign authorities or international organisations on the technical implementation of agreements in accordance with paragraph 2.319 5 Until the conclusion of a readmission agreement within the meaning of paragraph 2 letter b, the FDJP may enter into agreements with the competent foreign authorities and in consultation with the FDFA in which organisational issues connected with the return of foreign nationals to their native countries and with return assistance and reintegration are regulated.320 316 Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). 317 Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). 318 Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). 319 Amended by No I of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). 320 Inserted by No 1 of the FA of 13 June 2008 (Amendments in implementation of the Schengen and Dublin Association Agreements), (AS 2008 54075405Art. 2 let. c; BBl 20077937). Amended by Annex No 1 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Adoption of Regulation [EU] 2016/1624 on the European Border and Coast Guard), in force since 15 Sept. 2018 (AS 2018 3161; BBl 2017 4155). |
Art. 100a Use of documentation advisers 321
1 In order to combat illegal migration, use may be made of documentation advisers. 2 Documentation advisers shall in particular provide support in checking documents to the authorities responsible for border controls, air carriers and foreign representations. They shall act only in an advisory capacity and shall not exercise any sovereign function. 3 The Federal Council may enter into agreements on the use of documentation advisers with foreign States. 321 Inserted by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010 (Automated Border Controls, Documentation Advisers, MIDES Information System), in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5755; BBl 2009 8881). |
Art. 100b Federal Commission on Migration 322323
1 The Federal Council shall appoint an advisory commission comprising foreign and Swiss nationals. 2 The Commission shall deal with social, economic, cultural, political, demographic and legal issues that arise from the entry, residence and return of all foreign nationals, including asylum seekers. 3 It shall work with the competent authorities of the Confederation, the cantons and the communes and with non-governmental organisations involved in migration matters; these include the cantonal and communal commissions for foreign nationals involved in integration. It shall participate in the international exchange of views and experiences. 4 The Commission may be consulted on questions of principle relating to the promotion of integration. It is entitled to request financial contributions from SEM for conducting integration projects of national importance. 5 The Federal Council may assign additional tasks to the Commission. 322 Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 Dec. 2016 (Integration), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2017 6521, 2018 3171; BBl 2013 2397, 2016 2821). 323 The name was amended on 1 Jan. 2016 pursuant to Art. 20 para. 2 of the Publications Ordinance of 7 Oct. 2015 (SR 170.512.1). |
Chapter 14 Data Processing and Data Protection 324
324 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Section 1 General 325
325 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 101 Data processing 326
SEM, the cantonal immigration authorities and, where it has jurisdiction, the Federal Administrative Court may process or instruct someone else to process personal data, including particularly sensitive data and personality profiles of foreign nationals as well third parties involved in procedures in accordance with this Act, insofar as they need this data to fulfil their statutory duties. 326 Amended by No I 1 of the Ordinance of the Federal Assembly of 20 Dec. 2006 on the Adaptation of Legislation to the Provisions of the Federal Supreme Court Act and the Federal Administrative Court Act, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2006 5599; BBl 2006 7759). |
Art. 102 Data collection for the purpose of identification and determining age 327
1 When verifying entry requirements and in procedures concerning foreign nationals, the competent authorities may in individual cases collect and record biometric data pertaining to foreign nationals for identification purposes. For specific categories of persons, collection and recording may be carried out systematically.328 1bis If there are indications that an alleged foreign minor has reached the age of majority, the competent authorities may arrange an expert report on that person's age.329 2 The Federal Council shall determine the categories of persons for which data may be recorded systematically and which biometric data shall be collected in accordance with paragraph 1, and shall regulate access to this data.330 327 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). 328 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Arrangements and Information Systems), in force since 1 April 2020 (AS 2019 1413, 2020 881; BBl 2018 1685). 329 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2014 (AS 2013 43755357; BBl 2010 4455, 2011 7325). 330 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Arrangements and Information Systems), in force since 1 April 2020 (AS 2019 1413, 2020 881; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 102a Biometric data for identity cards 331
1 The competent authority may save and store the biometric data required for the issue of the foreign national identity cards. 2 The task of recording biometric data and forwarding identity card data to the issuing body may be delegated wholly or in part to third parties.332 3 The competent authority may process biometric data already recorded in ZEMIS in order to issue or renew a travel document.333 4 The biometric data required for the issue of an identity card shall be updated every five years. The Federal Council may specify a shorter period for the updating of data if this is required due to changes in the facial features of the person concerned.334 331 Inserted by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). 332 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 333 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 334 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 102b Verifying the identity of the identity card holder 335
1 The following authorities are authorised to read the data stored on the chip in order to verify the identity of the holder or verify that the document is genuine:
2 The Federal Council may authorise airlines, airport operators and other agencies that must verify the identity of persons to read the fingerprints stored on the data chip in order to carry out checks on persons. 335 Inserted by Art. 2 No I of the FD of 18 June 2010 (Development of the Schengen Acquis and Introduction of Biometric Data into Foreign National Identity Cards), in force since 24 Jan. 2011 (AS 2011 175; BBl 201051). |
Section 2 Passenger Data, Monitoring and Controls at Airports and Air Carriers' Duty to provide Data 336
336 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 103 Monitoring of arrivals at the airport
1 The arrival of flight passengers may be monitored using technical identification procedures. The authorities responsible for border controls (Art. 7 and 9) shall use the collected data:337
2 The competent authorities shall notify the FIS if they discover a specific threat to internal or the external security during this monitoring. They may forward the corresponding data with the report.338 3 The collected data must be erased within 30 days. If it is required for pending criminal, asylum proceedings or proceedings under the law on foreign nationals, the Federal Council may provide for specific data to be stored for a longer period. 4 The Confederation may pay the cantons where the international airports are located contributions to the costs of supervision in accordance with paragraph 1. 5 The Federal Council shall regulate the specifications that a facial recognition system must satisfy, as well as the details of the monitoring procedure and the passing on of information to the FIS.339 337 Second sentence amended in accordance with Art. 127 below, in force since 12 Dec. 2008 (AS 2008 5405Art. 2 let. a). 338 Amended by No I 2 of the Ordinance of 12 Dec. 2008 on the Amendment of Statutory Provisions due to the Transfer of the Intelligence Units of the Service for Analysis and Prevention to the DDPS, in force since 1 Jan. 2009 (AS 2008 6261). 339 Amended by No I 2 of the Ordinance of 12 Dec. 2008 on the Amendment of Statutory Provisions due to the Transfer of the Intelligence Units of the Service for Analysis and Prevention to the DDPS, in force since 1 Jan. 2009 (AS 2008 6261). |
Art. 103a Information system on refusals of entry 340
1 SEM shall maintain an internal information system on refusals of entry in accordance with Article 65 (INAD System). It shall be used when imposing penalties for violations of the duty of care under Article 122a, and to compile statistics. 2 The system shall contain the following data on persons who have been refused entry to the Schengen area:
3 The data recorded in the system shall be anonymised after two years. 4 At the border crossing, the data contained in the biometric passport or on the participation card may be compared with the data in the computerised police search system (RIPOL) and the SIS.341 340 Originally Art. 103b. Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 341 Inserted by Annex 1 No 1 of the FD of 18 Dec. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Exchange of Notes between Switzerland and the EU relating to the Adoption of the Legislation on the Establishment, Operation and Use of the Schengen Information System (SIS), in force since 22 Nov. 2022 (AS 2021 365; 2022 636; BBl 2020 3465). |
Art. 103b Entry and exit system 342
1 In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/2226343, the entry and exit system (EES) contains the personal data of third-country citizens who enter the Schengen area for a stay of a maximum of 90 days in any period of 180 days or whose entry into the Schengen area is refused. 2 The following categories of data are transferred via the national interface to the EES:
3 If third-country citizens are visa-exempt, in addition to the data under paragraph 2, the responsible authority shall fingerprint the persons concerned and transfer the fingerprints to the EES. 342 Inserted by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). 343 Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2017 establishing an Entry/Exit System (EES) to register entry and exit data and refusal of entry data of third-country nationals crossing the external borders of the Member States and determining the conditions for access to the EES for law enforcement purposes, and amending the Convention implementing the Schengen Agreement and Regulations (EC) No 767/2008 and (EU) No 1077/2011, last amended by OJ L 327 of 9.12.2017, p. 20. |
Art. 103c Recording, consulting and processing data in the EES 344
1 The following authorities may enter and process data in the EES online in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/2226345:
2 The following authorities may consult the data in the EES online:
3 The authorities under paragraph 2 may consult the data online that the automated calculator under Article 11 of Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 provides. 4 The following authorities may request EES data from the central access point under paragraph 5 in order to prevent, detect or investigate terrorist or other serious offences:
5 The central access point under Article 29 paragraph 3 of Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 is the fedpol Operations Centre 344 Inserted by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). 345 See footnote to Art. 103b para. 1. |
Art. 103d Disclosure of EES data 346
1 The data obtained from the EES may not in principle be disclosed to third countries, international organisations, private bodies or natural persons. 2 SEM may however disclose data to a state that is not bound by any of the Schengen Association Agreements, or an international organisation listed in Annex I of Regulation (EU) 2017/2226347 if this is required to prove the identity of a third-country citizen for the purpose of return and the conditions under Article 41 of Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 are met. 346 Inserted by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). 347 See footnote to Art. 103b para. 1. |
Art. 103e Exchange of information with EU member states that do not apply Regulation (EU) 2017/2226 348
The EU member states in which Regulation (EU) 2017/2226349 has not yet come into force or is not applicable may send their requests for information to the authorities under Article 103c paragraph 4. 348 Inserted by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). 349 See footnote to Art. 103b para. 1. |
Art. 103f Implementing provisions on the EES 350
The Federal Council shall regulate:
350 Inserted by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). |
Art. 103g Automated border controls at airports 351
1 The authorities responsible for border controls at airports may operate an automated border control procedure. 2 Persons aged 12 and over may participate in the automated border control procedure, irrespective of their nationality, provided they hold a travel document that has a data chip. This contains a facial image of the holder, the authenticity and integrity of which may be tested. 3 The Federal Council shall regulate the modalities of automated border controls. 4 As part of the automated border control procedure, the fingerprints and the facial image of the person concerned may be compared with the data on the travel document containing the data chip. 351 Inserted by the Annex to the FD of 21 June 2019 (Adoption of the Legislation for Establishing and Using an Entry and Exit System [EES], Regulations [EU] 2017/2226 and 2017/2225), in force since 1 May 2022 (AS 2021 732; BBl 2019 175). |
Art. 104 Air carriers' duty to provide data 352
1 In order to improve border controls and to combat unlawful entry into the Schengen area and transit through the international transit zones of the airports, at the request of the border control authorities SEM may require air carriers to provide personal data on the passengers it is carrying and data on the flight to SEM or to the authority responsible for the border controls. The data must be transmitted immediately after departure.353 1bis SEM may extend the duty to provide data to other flights:
1ter The data must be transmitted immediately after departure.355 2 The order to provide data must contain:
3 The duty to provide data applies to the following data categories:
4 The air carriers shall inform the persons concerned in accordance with Article 18a of the Federal Act of 19 June 1992356 on Data Protection. 5 Orders imposing or lifting the duty to provide data are made as general rulings and are published in the Federal Gazette. Appeals against such rulings do not have suspensive effect. 6 Air carriers may retain the data in accordance with paragraph 3 solely for evidentiary purposes. They must erase the data:
352 Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 353 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 354 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 355 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 104a Passenger information system 357
1 SEM shall maintain a passenger information system (API System) in order to:
1bis The API System contains the data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3 and the results of comparisons in accordance with paragraph 4.359 2 In order to check whether air carriers are fulfilling their duty to provide data, and to enforce penalties under Article 122b, SEM may retrieve data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3 from the API System.360 3 In order to improve border controls and to combat unlawful entry into the Schengen area and transit through the international transit zones of the airports, the authorities responsible for checks on persons at the Schengen external borders may retrieve data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3 from the API System.361 3bis If it is suspected that a person is preparing for or committing offences under Article 104 paragraph 1bis letter a, fedpol may retrieve the data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3.362 4 The data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3 letters a and b shall be automatically and systematically compared with the data from RIPOL, the SIS, the ZEMIS and the Interpol database for stolen and lost documents (ASF-SLTD).363 5 The data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3 and the results of the comparisons in accordance with paragraph 4 may only be used following the arrival of the flight concerned in order to conduct criminal or asylum proceedings, or proceedings under the law on foreign nationals. It must be erased:
6 The data may be retained in anonymised form for statistical purposes beyond the deadlines set out in paragraph 5. 357 Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). 358 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 359 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 360 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 361 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 362 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). 363 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 104b Automatic transmission of data from the API System 364
1 The data in accordance with Article 104 paragraph 3 shall be transmitted automatically in electronic form to the FIS. 2 The FIS may process the data in order to fulfil its duties under Article 104a paragraph 1 letter c. 364 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 104c Access to passenger data in individual cases 365
1 In order to conduct border controls, to combat illegal migration or to enforce removal orders, air carriers must on request provide the authorities responsible for border controls with passenger lists. 2 The passenger lists must contain the following data:
3 The duty to provide the passenger lists ends six months after the flight takes place. 4 The authority responsible for border controls shall delete the data within 72 hours of receipt. 365 Originally Art. 104b. Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2014 (Violations of the Duty of Care and to Report by Air Carriers, Information Systems), in force since 1 Oct. 2015 (AS 2015 3023; BBl 2013 2561). |
Section 3 Disclosure of Personal Data Abroad 366
366 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2018 (Procedural Regulations and Information Systems), in force since 1 June 2019 (AS 2019 1413; BBl 2018 1685). |
Art. 105 Disclosure of personal data abroad
1 In order to fulfil their duties, and in particular to combat criminal offence in terms of this Act, SEM and the competent authorities of the cantons may disclose personal data of foreign nationals to foreign authorities and international organisations entrusted with corresponding duties provided such authorities and organisation guarantee a level of data protection equivalent to that in Switzerland. 2 The following personal data may be disclosed:
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Art. 106 Disclosure of personal data to the native country or country of origin
For the implementation of removals or expulsions to the native country or country of origin, the authority responsible for organising the departure may only disclose the following data to foreign authorities if this does not put the foreign national or the next of kin at risk:
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Art. 107 Disclosure of personal data under readmission and transit agreements
1 In order to implement the readmission and transit agreements mentioned in Article 100, SEM and the competent authorities of the cantons may also disclose the required personal data to states that do not provide a level of data protection equivalent to that in Switzerland. 2 For the purpose of the readmission of its citizens, the following data may be disclosed to another contracting state:
3 For the purpose of the transit of members of third countries, the following data may be disclosed to the other contracting state:
4 Purpose limitation, any security measures and the competent authorities must be defined in the readmission or transit agreement. |