World Immigration News

(Le News)Swiss government committee calls for an immigration tax on EU workers

Release Date: 2026-08-21
Media: Le News
Summary: A Swiss Council of States committee has proposed an annual immigration levy if migration rises sharply after the Bilateral Agreements III with the EU take effect. The measure would be introduced only after the Federal Council activates the safeguard clause.

The levy would be at least CHF 4,000 per year, generally paid by employers for newly arrived foreign workers, while adults entering through family reunification would pay a lower charge themselves. Once activated, the system would also cover immigrants from non-EU countries. Revenue would be redistributed to Switzerland’s resident population.

Supporters argue that the levy would encourage employers to recruit domestic workers, make newcomers contribute to immigration-related costs, and provide financial benefits to existing residents.

However, the Federal Council has raised legal concerns, saying a levy on EU and EFTA nationals could violate the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons, while charges on family members could conflict with the European Convention on Human Rights. The Council of States is expected to consider the proposal during its autumn session.
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