New Rules for Obtaining S Status in Switzerland
As of August 20, 2023, Switzerland has tightened the rules for obtaining S status for Ukrainians, granting it only to those who do not violate military obligations to Ukraine. This decision reflects the approach of the European Union, which has narrowed access to temporary protection since July 31. The S status in Switzerland has been extended until March 4, 2028, and the support program Programme S has also been continued.
Starting August 20, Ukrainians applying for protection in Switzerland will undergo additional checks. S status will be granted only to those who have no violations regarding military obligations, concerning conscription-age citizens, reserve individuals, and volunteers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This new rule is applied exclusively to new applications submitted on or after August 20. It is important to note that those who have already received S status are not subject to the new restrictions.
Impact of New Rules on Ukrainians
It should be noted that on July 30, EU countries extended temporary protection until March 4, 2028. Since July 31, the EU offers temporary protection only to those fulfilling current military obligations in Ukraine. The Federal Council of Switzerland decided not to deviate from European practice, confirming the common approach of countries towards the protection of Ukrainians.
The S status in Switzerland, as well as the support program Programme S, has been extended until March 4, 2028. The support program, launched in April 2022, provides a federal budget supplement of 3,000 francs per person per year to cantons. In March 2027, the first Ukrainians who requested protection in Switzerland will have lived in the country for five years.
The asylum law in Switzerland grants the right to obtain a residence permit of category B, which is linked to S status. The category B permit is issued by cantonal authorities without the need for approval from the State Secretariat for Migration. If S status is revoked, the category B permits automatically lose their validity. Additionally, Ukrainians may apply for a residence permit through a procedure for cases of personal hardship, which cantons issue with the consent of SEM.
Changes in the rules for obtaining S status in Switzerland indicate an increase in control over immigration processes, aligning with a general European trend. This may impact the number of Ukrainians who can receive protection in Switzerland, especially among youth subject to military obligations. The continuation of the support program Programme S may help mitigate the effects of these new regulations for those who already have status or are in the process of completing their paperwork.