Icon
Come back

2 min

08 Apr. 2023

27630

How to change canton or renounce S status in Switzerland?

For refugees
Popular
Switzerland
How to change canton or renounce S status in Switzerland?

Are you planning to change your place of residence in Switzerland or even leave the country? Find out how to do it right – where and what kind of application you need to submit

Issuing a policy Green card for traveling abroad by car
Issuing a policy Green card for traveling abroad by car
ORDER


Ukrainians who came to Switzerland in search of asylum were granted special S status and registered in a certain canton, where it is obligatory to reside. However, the country allows you to change it or refuse temporary protection. Read on to find out all the details on how to do this.


Changing canton: procedure

The canton has to agree to the refugee's move, as it is responsible for his residence and support. 

There are a few simple steps to follow:

  1. Fill out and sign the appropriate application;
  2. Bring or send it to this address: Staatssekretariat für Migration SEM Taskforce Kantonswechsel Quellenweg 63003 Bern-Wabern.


Please note that you have to give all your personal information in your application and state the reason for your move. If this is for employment, private accommodation or health reasons, please indicate this in the appropriate field and have proof of it available.


Usually, the relocation application is approved in these cases:

- Family reunification - spouses, parents with minor children, grandparents;

- Reunification of vulnerable people with important contacts outside the family relationship - unaccompanied minors, people with disabilities or serious illnesses. 


Other reasons require the consent of your canton and where you want to go. These reasons include:

  • Moving to a private residence;
  • Moving to a distant relative or acquaintance;
  • Moving for employment outside your canton.



    Are you planning a trip? Apply for an insurance policy here for a safe trip abroad without unnecessary expenses




Refusal of S-status

A refugee who leaves Switzerland must give up his S status, which guaranteed protection and benefits. The only thing they have to do is fill out a special application. Download it at this link.

After entering all details, sign it and send it to this address: Staatssekretariat für Migration SEM, Quellenweg 6, 3003 Bern-Wabern. Don't forget to give your N-number.


Financial assistance for returning home

Ukrainians registered in the canton of Zurich can receive financial assistance of 500 Francs per person, but no more than 2,000 Francs per family. How to receive the payment, find out from the information department of the canton of Zurich:

Call the telephone numbers +41796813087 and +41432595295;

Write an e-mail to [email protected];

Visit the institution in person at Schaffhauserstrasse 78, Rückkehrberatung, 8090 Zürich.


Ukrainian refugees living in Switzerland must sell their cars in order to receive social assistance, particularly payments, from the state. The rule takes effect one year after arrival in the country. Read more about this at the link.




Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 


Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.




Recommended articles

3 min

Cost of living Cost of living in Switzerland: rent, food, entertainment and healthcare

Cost of living in Switzerland: rent, food, entertainment and healthcare

The standard of living in Switzerland is much higher than in most European countries. Find out more about the cost of renting a house, utilities, food and entertainment in the country

21 Oct. 2024

More details

1 min

Popular Departure from Switzerland for Ukrainians with S status: when it is necessary to notify SEM and EVAM

Departure from Switzerland for Ukrainians with S status: when it is necessary to notify SEM and EVAM

Refugees who have found refuge in Switzerland must notify SEM and EVAM before leaving the country. Learn more about when and what you need to report to the relevant migration services

13 Feb. 2023

More details