Switzerland extends funding for programmes that help expats integrate

The Swiss government has announced that it will continue to fund cantonal integration programmes until 2027, to help expats and internationals better integrate in Switzerland. 130 million francs will be spent on the scheme between 2024 and 2027.

Swiss government to fund integration programmes in Switzerland

In a statement on October 19, the Federal Council announced that it will increase the funding given to Swiss cantons for schemes that better integrate people who hold residence permits, and help showcase their potential as workers. The funding will “finance measures intended for migrants from EU or EFTA countries, as well as those from third countries.”

The majority of the funding will be spent on cantonal integration programmes (CIP). Started in 2014, CIPs are government-funded schemes that hope to promote the integration of expats into the Swiss community, especially those who are unable to easily integrate through participation at work or school.

Cantonal integration programmes in Switzerland

Cantonal integration programmes are controlled and run by each individual canton, so there is a large variance between regions. Generally, CIPs are:

• Language courses
• Training programmes
• Support programmes for expats that are looking for a job in Switzerland
• Cultural mediation services
• Protective services against discrimination

In the statement, the government said they will give cantons 32 million francs a year between 2024 and 2027 to help fund the scheme. The council was quick to stress that this doesn’t include the large contributions planned to help integrate Ukrainian refugees on S-residence permits. For more information about cantonal integration programmes, check out the official website (in German).