Switzerland to Strengthen Border Controls

Name: Switzerland to Strengthen Border Controls | IaM (Immigration and Migration)
Uploaded: 2025-02-19T16:00:00+00:00
Description: The Swiss government has announced plans to tighten border checks to combat irregular immigration, enhance

The Swiss government has announced plans to tighten border checks to combat irregular immigration, enhance security, and reduce cross-border crime.

Switzerland’s Federal Council has approved a motion calling for increased border controls.

The proposal, put forward by the Council of States' Committee on Political Institutions, aims to:

Prevent unauthorised migration
Improve internal security
Reduce crime along Swiss borders

Additionally, the plan includes measures to ensure that individuals without valid residence permits—who do not apply for asylum—are systematically returned to their home countries.

While Swiss authorities already conduct border checks, the commission believes these efforts must be reinforced. The Federal Council has agreed, stating that any new measures will align with Switzerland’s obligations under the Schengen Agreement.

The Federal Council also emphasised that stricter border controls must comply with the non-refoulement policy. This means that even with increased checks, individuals cannot be deported from Switzerland if they face the death penalty or other serious risks in their home country.

Although specific details about the border control measures are still unclear, significant delays for travellers are not expected. Daily commuters should not be affected unless unexpected long queues arise.

Borders with Schengen Neighbors

Switzerland shares a 1,935-km border with five countries: Italy, France, Germany, Austria, and Liechtenstein. All are part of the Schengen Zone, where border controls are usually minimal.

The only time Switzerland fully closed its borders in recent history was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Otherwise, checks are typically random and sporadic.

One of the most open crossings is between Switzerland and Liechtenstein—where a simple bridge allows people to drive or walk freely between the two countries. This ease of movement has even led to some amusing incidents, like the Swiss army accidentally “invading” its tiny neighbor multiple times.

With these new measures, Switzerland is taking steps to balance security with its Schengen commitments while maintaining smooth travel across its borders.

Do you have plans to visit Switzerland in the coming days? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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