Switzerland’s largest party urged the Federal Council in a statement to immediately stop its irresponsible policy and protect the interests of Swiss residents by not extending the protection status (S), considering cancelling it for all, limiting protection only to people coming from combat zones, and imposing clear work obligations on all working-age individuals holding protection status.

The party also emphasized the need to combat abuse of this protection, including restricting “tourist trips” by these individuals to Ukraine.

The statement condemned these unfair tactics that lead to permanent migration into Swiss social systems and cost taxpayers billions of dollars.

The party pointed out that this policy is unfair to Swiss citizens, noting that extending this residence permit for the fourth time means Ukrainians could stay in the country for five years, qualifying them for permanent residence.

It added that this way, temporary protection becomes a permanent burden on Switzerland, with catastrophic financial consequences. The costs for the Confederation alone reach billions of francs, in addition to the heavy burden on cantons and municipalities responsible for housing and social assistance costs.

The special “S” status entitles holders to work, including self-employment, insurance, schooling for children, freedom of movement within and outside the country, and family reunification. The measure came into effect on May 20, 2022.

This stance came after authorities extended the “S” protection status for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2027.

According to the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration, nearly 69,000 Ukrainians held the “S” status in Switzerland as of June 23, 2025.