Summary
Switzerland recorded a significant decline in net migration and asylum applications in 2025. The permanent foreign resident population grew by approximately 75,000 persons – 10 percent less than in the previous year. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) registered 25,781 new asylum applications, a decline of approximately 7 percent compared to 2024. The number of pending asylum proceedings fell by around 2,600 cases. Protection applications from Ukraine also declined by 22 percent.
Persons
- State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)
Topics
- Asylum policy
- Migration figures
- Net migration
- Asylum proceedings
- International protection applications
Detailed Summary
The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) published a press release on 26 January 2026 with final migration figures for 2025. The data shows a consistent downward trend in both immigration and asylum applications.
Net migration in 2025 amounted to approximately 75,000 persons, representing a decline of 10 percent compared to 2024. This marks a slowdown in migration growth, which had been significantly higher in previous years.
For asylum applications, a total of 25,781 new applications were registered – a decline of approximately 7 percent compared to 2024. In parallel, the number of pending asylum proceedings at the SEM was reduced by around 2,600 cases, indicating more efficient processing.
A particularly notable decline is evident in protection applications from Ukraine: these fell by 22 percent. This could be attributed to a stabilization of the security situation or changed migration patterns.
The SEM forecasts a further slight decrease in asylum applications for 2026, based on current trends and international developments.
Key Messages
- Net migration down 10 percent: Approximately 75,000 persons instead of over 80,000 in the previous year
- Asylum applications declining: 25,781 new applications represent a 7 percent decline
- More efficient case processing: Pending asylum applications reduced by 2,600
- Ukraine migration significantly declining: 22 percent fewer protection applications
- Positive outlook for 2026: SEM expects further decline in asylum applications
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
| Group | Impact |
|---|---|
| Asylum seekers and migrants | Lower chances for immigration; longer proceedings possible |
| Swiss authorities (SEM) | Relief in case processing; better resource planning possible |
| Labour market | Lower immigration could exacerbate skilled labour shortage |
| Social services and cantons | Reduced pressure on integration and social services |
| Ukrainian refugees | Significant decline in protection applications; possible return trends |
Opportunities & Risks
| Opportunities | Risks |
|---|---|
| Relief of administrative capacity | Skilled labour shortage in key sectors |
| Faster asylum proceedings | Lower economic growth due to reduced immigration |
| Reduced pressure on social services | Demographic challenges |
| Better integration opportunities | Possible return waves from Ukraine |
Action Relevance
Decision-makers should:
- Adjust labour market policy: Compensate for skilled labour shortage through targeted immigration or training
- Monitor procedural efficiency: Ensure that quality of asylum reviews does not suffer
- Observe Ukraine situation: Plan for possible returnee scenarios
- Review long-term migration strategy: Align immigration with economic needs
Quality Assurance & Fact-Checking
- [x] Central statements and figures verified
- [x] All information from official SEM press release
- [x] No unverified data present
- [x] No apparent political bias
Supplementary Research
- State Secretariat for Migration (SEM): Official migration figures and annual reports
- State Secretariat for the Economy (SECO): Labour market data and skilled labour requirements
- Federal Statistical Office (BFS): Detailed population statistics
Bibliography
Primary Source:
Press Release of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) – 26 January 2026
https://www.news.admin.ch/de/newnsb/vcWp63w3ZlLJt_Mxwacqc
Verification Status: ✓ Facts checked on 26 January 2026
This text was created with the assistance of Claude.
Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-checking: 26 January 2026