can swiss citizens work in the uk

Yes, Swiss citizens can work in the UK, but there are some requirements and restrictions that apply.

Before Brexit, Swiss citizens, as part of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), enjoyed free movement to live and work in the UK under the EU-Switzerland agreement. However, since the UK’s departure from the EU, the free movement agreement no longer applies.

As of January 1, 2021, Swiss citizens are considered "non-EU" or "third-country" nationals and are subject to the UK’s new points-based immigration system.

Here are some possible ways for Swiss citizens to work in the UK:

  1. Work visa: Swiss citizens can apply for a work visa under the UK’s points-based system, which requires them to have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license. The employer must also demonstrate that they cannot find a suitable candidate within the UK or EU.
  2. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa: If a Swiss citizen is employed by a multinational company with a UK branch, they may be eligible for an ICT visa to work in the UK.
  3. Youth Mobility Scheme visa: Swiss citizens aged 18-30 can apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, which allows them to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
  4. Ancestry visa: If a Swiss citizen has a UK-born grandparent, they may be eligible for an Ancestry visa, which allows them to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years.
  5. Student visa: Swiss citizens can apply for a student visa to study in the UK, and may be allowed to work part-time under certain conditions.

It’s essential for Swiss citizens to check the UK Government’s website for the latest information on visa requirements and application processes.

In summary, while Swiss citizens can no longer enjoy free movement to work in the UK, there are various visa options available for them to live and work in the UK.

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