Asylum Seekers Ukrainians Work | Frontaliere Ticino
Asylum Seekers Ukrainians Work — free tools and expert guides for cross-border workers (frontalieri) between Switzerland and Italy. Compare salaries, tax, LAMal health insurance, pensions, and cost of living in Ticino. Updated 2026.
Context
Opening up employment opportunities for asylum seekers and holders of S status, including Ukrainians, marks a significant step forward in the integration of migrants into Swiss society. With the recent ordinances adopted on March 20, 2026, by the Federal Council, these categories of foreigners will be able to work, subject to authorization, even during the processing phase of their protection application. This decision fits within broader integration measures aimed at promoting the socio-economic inclusion of those arriving in Switzerland, especially in the context of international crises like the Ukrainian conflict. The most notable change is the possibility for asylum seekers and those under S evaluation to work even before receiving a final decision, supported by federal contributions. This facilitates quicker integration into the labor market and reduces waiting times, providing tangible benefits for local businesses and economic activities, particularly in the service, construction, and retail sectors. In Ticino, with the heavily trafficked Brogeda and Gaggiolo borders, this measure is expected to increase employment opportunities for cross-border commuters awaiting permits and for migrants in the process of integration. Estimates suggest around 10,000 individuals applying for S protection could benefit, helping to address labor shortages, especially in construction, tourism, and care sectors. The regulation also applies to Ukrainians with S protection, who will be able to access a streamlined employment integration program, supporting a more sustainable flow of workers in Ticino and border areas where demand is rapidly rising. This initiative is part of a broader support plan for integration, which includes strengthening training and internship programs such as th...
Operational details
Legal clarification: the ordinances adopted by the Federal Council establish that individuals in the process of applying for S protection can be authorized to work upon request and with cantonal approval. The procedure, already in place for asylum seekers, now extends to those holding temporary or S protection. The law stipulates that authorization must be granted within 30 days of the request, with renewal options and access to various types of employment. Wages and working conditions are regulated according to SECO guidelines, with particular attention to minimum salaries, which in Ticino are around 3,350 CHF per month for construction and 3,200 CHF for services and retail. Employers are also required to comply with safety regulations, working hours, and social security contributions. Additionally, the pilot program for Pretirocinio d'integrazione (PTI), which offers training and professional placement pathways for older-arriving young foreigners, will be expanded at the federal level and made permanent in Ticino, involving SUPSI and USI. Funded with federal resources, this measure aims to facilitate the integration of young people aged 18 to 25 by providing training and employment opportunities in strategic sectors like construction, tourism, and commerce. A further development is the strengthening of cooperation between cantonal and federal agencies to ensure proper implementation and continuous monitoring of effectiveness. For cross-border workers, this regulation offers concrete opportunities to expand employment options, including in non-traditional sectors, reducing onboarding times and improving salary conditions. The collaboration between Ticino, SECO, and industry associations will be crucial to ensure effective and sustainable application of these new rules....
Key points
For asylum seekers and Ukrainians interested in taking advantage of this opportunity, some practical steps are recommended: first, verify your status with cantonal migration offices or USI Lugano, which provide support and guidance. It is important to submit a work authorization application, attaching necessary documents such as your passport, ongoing protection request, and any training certificates. Once authorized, the worker can begin employment, adhering to the specified conditions. For companies, it’s advisable to stay informed about wage and safety regulations, ensuring compliance with Swiss standards. Collaboration between public and private entities will benefit both job seekers and local businesses, supporting the cross-border economy and helping to curb illegal employment. For more details, consult the salary calculator, which estimates net wages based on working conditions and tax rates. These measures will remain in effect until June 29, 2026, the end of the consultation period, and may be extended or modified depending on international and local developments. To stay updated, regularly visit the official Ticino canton website and official migration information channels. This new regulation offers a real opportunity for integration and economic growth, with tangible benefits for local communities and foreign workers.