S Protection Status for Ukrainians in Switzerland Extended Until March 2028

The Swiss Federal Council has decided to extend S protection status for Ukrainian citizens until 4 March 2028. At the same time, new rules for obtaining S status will come into effect on 20 August 2026.

New Conditions for Obtaining S Status

From 20 August 2026, new applicants will be granted S status only if they fulfil any military obligations that may apply to them in Ukraine.

This new rule applies only to new applications for S status submitted from 20 August 2026 onwards. It does not affect Ukrainians who have already been granted S protection status in Switzerland.

Continued Integration Support

Switzerland will continue its programmes to support the integration of Ukrainians. Each year, the federal government will provide the cantons with CHF 3,000 per person to fund integration measures.

This includes support for language learning, access to education, professional integration, and entering the labour market.

What Happens After Five Years of Residence

In March 2027, the first Ukrainians who received S status at the beginning of the temporary protection scheme will have lived in Switzerland for five years.

After five years, they will be entitled to a B permit linked to their S status. The permit will be issued by the cantonal authorities without requiring approval from the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

However, this B permit is directly linked to S status. If S protection status ends, the corresponding B permit will also no longer be valid.

Overall, the Federal Council’s decision extends temporary protection for Ukrainians in Switzerland until March 2028, while introducing new conditions for those who apply for S status from 20 August 2026 onwards.

Source: Swiss Federal Council