Swiss Work Permit Quotas 2026: Complete Guide to B & L Permits
2026 Swiss work permit quotas: 8,500 permits for third countries, 3,500 for UK citizens. Learn the priority principle and application process.
The Swiss Federal Council confirmed in November 2025 that work permit quotas for 2026 remain unchanged compared to 2025. This decision provides employers with much-needed predictability in a labor market still facing significant skills shortages.
1. For Third-Country Citizens (Non-EU/EFTA)
A total of 8,500 permits are available for workers coming from outside the European Union and EFTA zone.
- Permit B (Long-term): 4,500 permits
- Permit L (Short-term): 4,000 permits
Note: Employers must still demonstrate that they could not find a suitable candidate among Swiss or EU/EFTA citizens before these permits can be granted.
2. For United Kingdom Citizens
Following Brexit, the UK operates under a separate system with a dedicated allocation of 3,500 permits:
- Permit B (Long-term): 2,100 permits
- Permit L (Short-term): 1,400 permits
British citizens are not subject to standard third-country quotas; they have a dedicated allocation under the Services Mobility Agreement.
3. For Seconded Workers (EU/EFTA)
For posted workers from the EU/EFTA staying longer than 120 days, a separate quota of 3,500 permits exists:
- Permit L: 3,000 permits
- Permit B: 500 permits
Permit Types Explained
| Permit | Type | Duration | Tie-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| L | Short-term | 4-12 months | Tied to specific employer/project |
| B | Residence | 1-5 years | The "Holy Grail" for most expats |
| G | Cross-border | Weekly return | Must live in bordering country (FR/DE/IT) |
Digital Procedures in 2026
Applications in 2026 are now processed through the SwissPost-E-Gov digital portal. Employers are responsible for uploading candidate certificates and submitting the application to the respective cantonal authorities.
Summary: Who has the best chance?
While quotas remain strict, they are predictable. UK citizens have a guaranteed separate pool, while others compete for the 8,500 places.
Specialized skills and a demonstrated shortage of local candidates remain the key factors for a successful application in 2026.