Brexit

In 2016, the UK voted to leave the EU. The withdrawal agreement came into force on 31st January 2020, ensuring an orderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU. Brexit also has consequences for Switzerland, as relations between Switzerland and the UK were largely governed by the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons (AFMP) between Switzerland and the EU.

Transition period until the end of December 2020

In the withdrawal agreement, the UK and the EU agreed upon a transition period until 31st December 2020. Until the end of said transition period, the same rules applied for UK nationals as for citizens of EU member states.

This also meant that the AFMP between Switzerland and the EU was still valid for UK citizens until 31st December 2020, with the same rules in place as for EU/EFTA citizens.  

Situation from January 2021

From January 2021, UK nationals wanting to work in Switzerland may no longer acquire AFMP rights and must adhere to the provisions for third-country nationals.

The Federal Council has decided to create separate quotas for UK citizens, set as follows for 2021: 2,100 residence permits and 1,400 short-stay permits Switzerland-wide.