Switzerland plans to ban asylum seekers from traveling abroad, but will make an exception for Ukrainians

Switzerland is tightening rules for asylum seekers, banning them from traveling abroad, even within the Schengen area. Find out why an exception has been made for Ukrainians and what conditions will apply after the legislation is updated

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Switzerland is preparing to introduce new rules for people seeking asylum in the country. According to parliamentary decisions, they will be prohibited from leaving the country, including traveling within the Schengen area or to their countries of origin. Exceptions will only be made in special cases, such as the death or serious illness of a relative. At the same time, there will be some leniency for Ukrainians who have temporary protection in Switzerland.

Restrictions for asylum seekers: what will change

As reported by srf.ch, the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) will have the right to allow travel only in exceptional situations. These may include the need to complete paperwork, resolve inheritance or family matters, prepare for return home, or confirm property or work rights. The maximum duration of such trips will be up to 30 days.

The government plans to complete consultations on the new rules by early February 2026. After that, it is expected that the relevant amendments to the regulations will be adopted, which will restrict the movement of asylum seekers even within the Schengen area.

Ukrainians — an exception to the general rule

A separate procedure will apply to Ukrainian citizens who have been granted temporary S protection status. They are allowed to visit Ukraine for up to 15 days every six months. This decision is explained by the special circumstances of the war: many Ukrainian families have been separated, and the need to visit relatives or resolve property issues remains high.

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Criticism from international organizations

Back in 2021, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) criticized this initiative, calling it disproportionate. According to agency representatives, a complete travel ban violates the rights of families who have been separated by war or persecution. Such restrictions can create additional psychological and social problems for people who are already in a vulnerable position.

The Federal Council, in turn, explained the delay in implementing the rules by saying that the priority in 2022 was to introduce S protection status for Ukrainians after the start of russia's full-scale invasion.

What Ukrainians in Switzerland should know

For Ukrainian citizens who are under temporary protection, the possibility of short-term trips to Ukraine remains important. However, even in this case, it is necessary to comply with the terms of stay outside Switzerland in order not to lose status. If you have any doubts about completing documents, extending permits, or returning to Ukraine, it is worth contacting specialists.

Visit Ukraine lawyers help Ukrainians abroad resolve migration issues, including protection status, legalization, leaving the country, or family reunification. Consulting a specialist will help you avoid violating the rules of stay and preserve all your rights.

We remind you! Switzerland has extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2027, but has changed the conditions for granting it. Read about who will retain S status, which regions are considered safe for return, and how to avoid refusal to extend protection.

Photo: UnSplash

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