The Swiss government is preparing a sweeping change to its asylum legislation that would ban asylum seekers from travelling abroad — including to their home countries or any third nation. The proposal, which follows an earlier mandate from parliament, aims to close what officials call “loopholes” in the country’s migration system.
The planned amendment, announced this week by the Federal Council in Bern, would apply to all individuals under asylum procedures or with provisional admission status. Only one group will remain exempt: Ukrainians who fled the Russian invasion and received the special “S-status” introduced in 2022. They will continue to be allowed short visits of up to 15 days per half-year to Ukraine for family or personal matters.
Travel only with special authorisation
Under the proposal, exceptions could be granted for humanitarian reasons — for instance, in the event of a death or serious illness of a close relative. In such cases, asylum seekers could apply for permission to travel abroad for a maximum of 30 days.
Travel to a person’s country of origin would be allowed only if it clearly serves the purpose of preparing for voluntary return, such as resolving property issues, legal matters, or employment arrangements.
The Swiss parliament had already endorsed the concept of such restrictions back in 2021, urging the government to enforce them. Implementation was delayed due to the uncertainty surrounding refugees from Ukraine and the need to adapt the legislation to their unique legal status.
Germany’s approach remains more flexible
In Germany, asylum seekers face similar limits when it comes to visiting their home countries — they require special approval in exceptional circumstances such as funerals or family emergencies. However, unlike the upcoming Swiss model, Germany generally allows asylum seekers to travel to other countries within Europe if they possess valid travel documents and permission from authorities.
Law expected to take effect in 2026
According to Swiss media, the new regulation is expected to come into force next year once the legislative process is complete. It marks one of the most restrictive asylum travel policies in Europe and is likely to reignite debates about integration, human rights and proportionality in Switzerland’s traditionally cautious immigration system.
