Another country has changed the rules for granting protection to Ukrainians of conscription age From August 20, S status protection will be limited for certain other groups of individuals. The Federal Council of Switzerland made this decision at its meeting on August 19, following consultations with relevant stakeholders.This is stated in the press release of the Federal Department of Justice and Police EJPD of Switzerland.
What are the restrictions
At the same time, they decided to limit access to temporary protection in the EU: from July 31, temporary protection is granted only to those who fulfill their military obligations in Ukraine.Read also
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The requirement to fulfill military obligations applies, in particular, to Ukrainian citizens of conscription age, those in the reserve, and those who have voluntarily joined the armed forces. Switzerland is not legally bound by this decision made by the Council of the EU.However, the Federal Council believes it is in Switzerland’s interest to align its practice with that of the EU. Therefore, S status protection will now be granted only to individuals who fulfill their military obligations, which they may have in Ukraine. This new rule applies to all new applications filed on or after August 20. It does not affect individuals who have already been granted S status protection.Read also
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The restriction of S status protection, applicable to individuals obligated to perform military service, requires amendments to the Federal Council’s general decision of October 8, 2025, regarding temporary protection in connection with the situation in Ukraine.
Continuation of integration measures
Regarding the extension of S status protection, the Federal Council has also decided to continue special support measures for refugees from Ukraine with this status until March 4, 2028; these measures, known as Program S, were first adopted on April 13, 2022.Individuals who, after five years of residence in Switzerland, are granted a residence permit of category B, linked to S status protection, are entitled to integration support within the framework of cantonal integration programs.Read also
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Changes after five years of residence
From March 2027, the first Ukrainians seeking protection in Switzerland will have lived here for five years. This five-year period is significant for the residence status of these individuals.The Asylum Act stipulates that individuals requiring protection are entitled, after five years, to a residence permit (permit B) associated with S status protection.If the S status protection is revoked, these residence permits will automatically become invalid. Permits are issued by the cantonal authorities and do not require SEM approval.According to: Finance.ua# MigrantsSpace for your advertisement