Am I allowed to work?

Whether you are allowed to work depends on your permit. Here is the general rule. If in doubt, ask the Amt für Migration.

Your permit (Ausweis) decides if and how you are allowed to work. The rules are complicated. This page only gives a rough overview.

Permits in the asylum area

  • N (asylum seekers): You first need a permission from the canton. In the federal asylum centre you are not allowed to work.
  • F (temporarily admitted): You are allowed to work in all of Switzerland. Your employer reports the work to the canton.
  • S (people in need of protection): You are allowed to work. Your employer reports the work.
  • B as a recognised refugee: You are allowed to work. Your employer reports the work.

The employer makes the report online on EasyGov.swiss. You do not have to submit anything to the SEM yourself.

Other permits

  • From EU/EFTA countries: In general you are allowed to work (free movement of persons).
  • From other countries with B or L: Your employer usually needs a permit. The employer submits the application to the canton.

For permit C and all other cases: Ask the Amt für Migration.

Without a report or permit

Working without a report or permit is not allowed. Ask your employer to make the report. Ask for a copy.

What you can do now

  1. Look at your permit. Which letter is on it?
  2. Show your employer the permit. The employer makes the report or the application.
  3. Keep a copy of the report or permit.
  4. Unsure? Ask FABIA or the Amt für Migration. This app is not legal advice.

SEM, Erwerbstätige aus dem Asylbereich (2026-09-21)

Find help