G apprenticeship leave: extended duration for the entire internship (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• Approved motion for multi-year G permits for apprentices.
• The permit will cover the entire duration of the training contract.
• Passed the annual renewal requirement for young border workers.

Key facts

• What: Permitted release G for the entire duration of the apprenticeship.
• When: Recent approval of the Council of States.
• Where: Canton Ticino and other border cantons.
• Who: Council of States (proposal by Martin Schmid).
• Amount: Approximately 700 young cross-border apprentices involved.

The Council of States approved with 34 votes in favour and 3 abstentions the motion asking to grant cross-border apprentices a G permit valid for the entire duration of their internship in Switzerland, surpassing the current practice that requires an annual renewal. The proposal, filed by the councilor to the States of Grison Martin Schmid, aims to modify the existing legal bases. This parliamentary decision comes despite opposition from the Federal Council, which had recommended rejecting the motion on the basis of the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons (FTA) and a recent Federal Court ruling of 19 May 2025 (2C_699/2023). According to the Government, an apprentice must be equated to a student, thus limiting the residence permit to one year, even if the course of study has a longer duration. However, the majority of the Council of States considered it necessary to intervene to streamline the

Operational details

The current annual renewal procedure for the G permit for apprentices has been identified by the promoters of the motion as an unnecessary administrative burden. For many Ticino companies, especially those in the Mendrisiotto region, hiring a frontaliero apprentice is a necessary solution to fill available internship positions. The obligation to renew the permit every twelve months not only involves additional administrative costs and time, but also acts as a disincentive for small businesses that fear bureaucratic complications. Beyond the purely logistical aspect, there is a disparity in treatment compared to other frontaliero workers. Currently, those who sign a dependent employment contract lasting more than a year can obtain a G permit valid for five years. The motion of Martin Schmid proposes to apply the same logic to apprentices, as the duration of their training contract is known from the moment of signing, varying typically between two and four years.

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Key points

For businesses and young apprentices, the new procedure, once implemented, will represent a step forward towards the simplification of bureaucratic procedures. While the motion is now under review by the National Council, it is essential that companies stay informed about the evolving regulations. Proper management of the necessary documentation for the issuance of the G permit remains a key element for those working in the Canton Ticino. Apprentices who intend to pursue a training path in Switzerland must ensure they have a regular apprenticeship contract, a fundamental element that justifies the request for the permit at the competent cantonal authorities. In the meantime, until the new legislative changes come into effect, companies must continue to follow the current annual renewal procedures. To monitor the economic impact of their salary or to assess the net amount, it is always possible to use our calculator up-to-date. Apart from the issue of permits, companies that hire frontaliers must also consider the obligations related to social security and taxation. It is important to remember that, despite the changes in permits, the rules on income tax and the management of social security contributions, including AVS and LPP, remain active. For companies seeking to optimize the hiring processes, it is advisable to periodically check the circulars issued by the cantonal authorities. The stability offered by a long-term permit will allow for greater confidence in investing in the training of young talents who choose Ticino for their professional future. Maintaining proper planning is essential, especially when managing the differences between the Swiss and Italian systems. For those who have doubts about their own contribution or tax position pending new regulations, our calculator provides a reliable base for simulating the monthly net amount based on the current deductions.