Swiss Senate votes in favour of toughening rules for granting S status
The Swiss Senate has voted in favour of tightening the rules for granting S protection status to Ukrainian refugees to put an end to the “tourism” of those who take advantage of the current conditions to receive the same aid multiple times, according to a statement published on the website of the country’s parliament.
“The Swiss Senate on Wednesday passed two proposals to tighten the rules of the S… statute. It wants to put an end to the “tourism” of S status, which is becoming less and less acceptable to the Swiss population. Some Ukrainian citizens give it up (the status – ed.), get help to return (to Ukraine – ed.) and after a few weeks return to Switzerland and get protected status again. The costs are great,” the document said.
It is specified that the Senate proposes that S status be revoked or not renewed if the person concerned leaves Switzerland for a certain period, if he or she has been provided with assistance for return or similar assistance, or if he or she has obtained his or her status improperly.
According to the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, 65,829 Ukrainians had S refugee status in the country as of 28 March. Since 24 February 2022, more than 24,000 Ukrainians have lost this status. The special S status gives the right to work, including self-employment, insurance, schooling for children, the ability to move freely within and outside the country, and the possibility of family reunification.
In November, the Swiss government approved the extension of the protective status of Ukrainian refugees in the country until 4 March 2025, provided that their activity rate reaches 40% by the end of 2024.
