Summary

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) recorded a total of 9,734 asylum applications in the first half of 2026 – a decline of 16 percent compared to the previous year (–1,907 applications). In June 2026, 1,777 applications were received, representing a decline of 20 percent compared to June 2025. The main countries of origin are Afghanistan (456), Eritrea (222), and Algeria (175). In June, the SEM made first-instance decisions on 2,235 applications; asylum was granted in approximately one-third of cases. 872 persons left Switzerland in a controlled manner, of which 527 did so voluntarily.

Persons

  • State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) (Swiss authority)

Topics

  • Swiss asylum policy
  • Migration figures
  • Refugee protection
  • Deportations

Clarus Lead

The 20 percent decline in asylum applications in June 2026 reflects European shifts in migration routes: declining landing numbers in southern Italy and falling applications from Turkey are changing the volume at the Swiss border. This development provides short-term relief to the asylum system, while the composition of countries of origin (Afghanistan, Eritrea, Algeria) reflects structural causes of flight in specific regions.

Detailed Summary

The SEM's asylum statistics document a clear trend: the decline in the first semester of 2026 (–1,907 applications, –16%) is reinforced by June data (–436 applications, –20%). This difference between semester and monthly trends is explained by external factors – specifically reduced landings in southern Italy and fewer applications from Turkish applicants. Compared to May 2026, however, there is a slight counter-movement: June recorded 153 additional applications (+9%), indicating volatility in monthly flows.

The geographic distribution of countries of origin remains stable: Afghanistan dominates with 456 applications, followed by Eritrea (222) and Algeria (175). This consistency suggests ongoing causes of flight in these regions. In terms of application types, 1,426 applications (80%) were primary applications and 351 (20%) were secondary applications (births, family reunification, multiple applications). Primary applications declined compared to June 2025 by 25 percent (–463), while they increased compared to the previous month by 11 percent (+137).

The decision-making practice in June shows: the SEM made first-instance decisions on 2,235 applications; asylum was granted in approximately one-third of cases. Regarding departures, 872 persons were recorded in a controlled manner, of which 527 (60%) departed voluntarily and 345 (40%) were deported by police to countries of origin, Dublin countries, or third countries.

Key Statements

  • Asylum applications in H1 2026: 9,734 (–16% y-o-y); June: 1,777 (–20% y-o-y)
  • Decline due to falling landings in southern Italy and reduced Turkish applications
  • Main countries of origin: Afghanistan (456), Eritrea (222), Algeria (175)
  • Asylum approval rate (June): approx. 33%; 872 persons departed in a controlled manner (527 voluntarily, 345 by police)

Critical Questions

  1. Evidence/Data Quality: What delays exist between application submission and decision, and how do these affect the statistics of "first-instance decisions" in the reporting month?

  2. Conflicts of Interest: To what extent does the decline in Turkish applications correlate with political or administrative changes in Turkey or in visa issuance?

  3. Causality: Are the declining landings in southern Italy attributable to changed flight routes, improved border controls, or seasonal factors?

  4. Feasibility: How is the 60 percent rate of voluntary departures achieved, and what incentives or sanctions are associated with it?

  5. Data Comparability: Does the recording methodology for secondary applications differ between 2025 and 2026, which could explain the decline?

Sources

Primary Source: Asylum Statistics June 2026 – State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) – https://www.news.admin.ch/de/newnsb/WVEYSRTDQfRd

Verification Status: ✓ 16.07.2026

This text was created with the assistance of an AI model. Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-check: 16.07.2026