Updates on "S Status" Migration
The Swiss parliament has decided to change the criteria for granting S migration status to Ukrainian refugees. Moving forward, this status will be automatically granted only to individuals from regions occupied by Russia or regions where active hostilities are taking place.
Ukrainians who currently hold S status can retain it until martial law in Ukraine is lifted, regardless of their place of residence. The status will only be revoked in cases of legal violations. However, a final decision on extending the status is expected in March 2025.
The National Council, the larger chamber of the Swiss parliament, approved this proposal, which was initially presented by Council of States member Esther Friedli. The Minister of Justice Beate Jans opposed the measure, stating that it "fails to recognize the true security situation in Ukraine, undermines European solidarity, and ultimately benefits Russia."
At the same time, the parliament rejected proposals to revoke S status for refugees from areas under Ukrainian control and did not support initiatives to strip foreign nationals of this status. However, it was decided that individuals would lose their S status if they leave Switzerland for an extended period, such as more than two weeks.
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