Is your 2025 move to Switzerland affected? Alliance Relocation’s Guide to Immigration and Social Policy Changes
What’s New? Alliance Relocation Switzerland’s Guide to Changes in Immigration and Social Security Policy
There are a few changes to the Immigration rules for those Relocating to Switzerland in 2025. Here is a short guide to the latest updates on permits, social security, and tax changes that could impact your move this year. At Alliance Relocation we like to keep our clients informed so that your move can be as smooth as possible.
Inbound Permits: What’s New?
Full Freedom for Croatian Citizens
Exciting news for our Croatian friends! As of 2025, all restrictions have been lifted. Quotas are a thing of the past, and permits can now be issued without any limitations. This makes working and settling in Switzerland simpler and more accessible.
Third-Country Nationals
For professionals from outside the EU/EFTA, the quotas remain unchanged:
4,000 L permits (short-term residency)4,500 B permits (long-term residency)
Postings from EU/EFTA Countries
The quotas for temporary assignments also stay the same:
3,000 L permits 500 B permits
UK Citizens
While Brexit brought changes, opportunities remain steady with these quotas:
1,400 L permits 2,100 B permits
New Quotas for US Interns
Here’s a fresh opportunity: 300 permits are now available for US interns. It’s a golden chance to gain experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic and innovative economies!
Outbound Switzerland: Changes for UK Travellers
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Starting 8 January 2025, non-European travellers who don’t require a visa—including those from the USA, Canada, and Australia—must apply for an ETA to enter or transit through the UK. European travellers will also need an ETA from 2 April 2025.
Cost: £10Validity: Two years or until your passport expiresApplication: Quick and easy via an app or websiteDuration: Covers stays of up to six months
Social Security Updates
First Pillar (AHV/IV)
Pension Increase: From January 2025, pensions will increase by 2.9%: Minimum pension: CHF 1,260 Maximum pension: CHF 2,520 Married couples: CHF 3,780 Minimum Contributions: Self-employed or not gainfully employed: CHF 530/year Voluntary AHV/IV contributions: CHF 1,010/year Helplessness Allowance: Rates for third-party assistance increase to CHF 35.30/hour (+CHF 1).
AHV 21: Second Stage
Women born after 1960, take note! Your reference retirement age will gradually rise to 65 by 2028, aligning with men.
Family Allowances
Child allowance: CHF 215/month (up from CHF 200)Education allowance: CHF 268/month (up from CHF 250)Beneficiaries: Employees in cantons like Aargau, Basel-Landschaft, Glarus, Solothurn, Ticino, Thurgau, and Zurich, among others where cantonal allowances exceed these minimums.
Second Pillar (BVG)
Coordination Deduction: Raised to CHF 26,460 Entry Threshold: Increased to CHF 22,680 Minimum Interest Rate: Holds steady at 1.25%
Third Pillar (Pillar 3a)
New Contribution Rules: Retroactive contributions for up to 10 years are now possible for gaps arising after 2025. Maximum Tax Deductions:With a second pillar: CHF 7,258 Without a second pillar: CHF 36,288
Tax Updates
France: Teleworking Certificates
From 1 January 2025, French cross-border commuters must receive a teleworking certificate when leaving a company. Ensure compliance to avoid any legal hiccups.
Germany: Double Taxation Agreement
Changes to Articles 15 and 15a are on the way, clarifying key details for cross-border workers, including:
Number of actual working days for tax purposesDefinition of the place of workNon-return days, leave of absence, and severance pay
The implementation date is still pending, but changes are expected in 2025.
In Closing
Staying on top of these updates ensures a smooth transition for both individuals and businesses. For further information please reach out to us on info@alliance-relocation.ch to see how we can assist you with your upcoming move.
Details thanks to NZZ and Dagmar Richardson at International HR Services