Free movement of persons with Croatia: Extension of the transition phase

Since January 1st, 2017, the protocol for extending the free movement of persons from Croatia has been in force. During a multi-stage transitional phase, special conditions apply for Croatian nationals entering employment in Switzerland. The first period of this transitional phase ends on 31st December 2018. At its meeting on 7th December 2018, the Swiss Federal Council decided to maintain the transitional period until the end of December 2021.

Thanks to the Free Movement of Persons Agreement (FZA) with the European Union (EU) on Croatia, Croatian nationals benefit from a Visa-free entry into Switzerland and can stay in our country for up to three months. However, special transitional provisions apply to the taking up of any gainful employment in Switzerland and the provision of services. Thus, Croatian nationals will only be authorized to take up employment under the control, of a previous search, of wage and working conditions and within the framework of established annual quotas. These transitional provisions will be maintained until 31 December 2021.

Summary: Croatian nationals, despite being EU citizens, are treated as citizens from outside the EU/EFTA when they are first employed in Switzerland. The so-called domestic priority comes into play, i.e. it must be proven by the future employer in Switzerland that no one else has been found in EU 27/EFTA.

International HR Services Ltd. is available for further questions on this topic.