Alis and Cir: New Strategies for Migrant Inclusion in Ticino

Context

TL;DR

• Ticino promotes migrant inclusion with Alis and Cir agreement.
• 5M CHF allocated for 2025 to support migrant employment.
• 2,000 migrants to be integrated by 2028.
• Training pathways focus on strategic sectors like logistics.

Key facts

• Agreement Signers: Alis and Cir
• Agreement Date: March 20, 2026
• Funding Allocated: 5 million CHF in 2025
• Target Sectors: Construction, logistics, transportation
• Migrant Workforce: 25% of total employment in Chiasso and Mendrisio
• Training Pathways: Must be recognized by Canton of Ticino
• Total Funds Allocated: 15 million CHF
• Pilot Projects: Planned in Lugano, Mendrisio, and Bellinzona

The Canton of Ticino stands out for the increasing presence of cross-border workers and migrants, who represent a fundamental component of the local labor market. Recently, Alis (Lombard Association of Intermediaries and Road Transport) and Cir (Italian Refugee Council) signed a strategic agreement aimed at improving the social and professional inclusion of this workforce. The signing, which took place on March 20, 2026, is part of a framework of canton policies designed to promote integration and social cohesion, particularly in the areas of Chiasso, Mendrisio, and Lugano.

The agreement foresees targeted training pathways, company placements, and specific support services for asylum seekers, holders of international protection, and migrants. These initiatives are supported by cantonal and federal funding: in 2025, the Department of Institutions of Ticino allocated 5 million francs for inclusion programs, with a particular focus on employment integration tools. Through this initiative, Ticino aims to strengthen the stability of its labor market, often tested by economic fluctuations and regulatory changes, such as the recent introduction of entry quotas for cross-border workers, adopted in 2024, which temporarily limited hiring of cross-border employees.

The collaboration between the two organizations translates into concrete programs, such as internships, vocational training courses, and employment support, with a special focus on cross-border workers who cross the Brogeda border daily. In some municipalities, like Chiasso and Mendrisio, 15-20% of workers in the service and logistics sectors are foreign nationals with international protection or asylum seekers. This workforce, contributing about 25% of total employment in these areas, makes dedicated inclusion policies essential.

Operational details

Alis and Cir: New Strategies for Migrant Inclusion in Ticino

To implement effective integration and employment initiatives for migrants and asylum seekers, clear procedures and strict deadlines have been established, aligned with canton and federal regulations. The agreement actively involves key local actors, including the creation of a coordination table that will meet quarterly to monitor progress, share best practices, and adapt strategies to labor market dynamics. Starting from 2024, pilot projects are planned in municipalities such as Lugano, Mendrisio, and Bellinzona, aiming to involve at least 500 migrants by year's end.

The training pathways targeted at migrants and asylum seekers must meet strict requirements: they need to be recognized by the Canton of Ticino, include a certification valid for the local market, and respond to the needs of strategic sectors like construction, logistics, and transportation. Currently, 15 million CHF in cantonal funds have been allocated, complemented by European contributions and incentives from the Lugano Chamber of Commerce, which will support local companies with tax reliefs and logistical assistance. For example, in Mendrisio, a German language course is underway with 120 participants, with an expected placement rate of 70% in the logistics sector.

The ambitious goal of integrating at least 2,000 migrants and asylum seekers into the labor market by 2028 is based on a structured, measurable action plan. Key deadlines include the launch of initial internships, with about 150 positions available in the second quarter of 2026, and semiannual monitoring to evaluate intervention effectiveness. The relevant legislation remains the cantonal law on employment promotion and social integration, approved in 2020, which offers incentives up to 10,000 CHF for companies hiring migrants with international protection and provides targeted support for orientation and training.

As stated by the Council of State, “the goal is to create a more inclusive and sustainable economic fabric.” However, one of the most delicate aspects is managing bureaucracy and insertion practices, which requires close cooperation between cantonal offices, training entities, and companies. The operational checklist includes: analyzing company needs, candidate selection, defining training pathways, managing authorization procedures, and results monitoring.

⚠️ Comparing practical scenarios, without effective coordination, hiring timelines can extend by 6-9 months, jeopardizing placement objectives. The main challenge remains balancing swift responses with quality integration, amid regulatory fluctuations and international market conditions.

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Key points

Alis and Cir: New Strategies for Migrant Inclusion in Ticino

For cross-border workers and migrants wishing to settle in Ticino, it is essential to understand and leverage support tools and networks that facilitate employment and social integration. Recently, industry associations and cantonal authorities have strengthened their initiatives, creating a more accessible and effective support framework. Among these, the official Canton Ticino portal dedicated to inclusion policies provides detailed information on incentives, training, and updated regulations, helping plan a professional path within the territory.

“The goal is to break down entry barriers and improve opportunities for everyone,” states the director of the Department of Finance and Economy (DFE).

A concrete example is Lugano, which in 2023 allocated 1.5 million francs for vocational training programs aimed at migrants and cross-border workers, with particular focus on digital skills and language proficiency. Additionally, Bellinzona has launched an employment integration project that, through collaborations with local companies, has enabled about 200 migrants to enter the job market in less than 12 months, with fiscal and contribution incentives of up to 10,000 francs per company.

To facilitate access to opportunities, an operational checklist is recommended:

• consult the salary calculator to evaluate net income and taxes, noting that in Ticino, withholding tax varies approximately from 5% to 8%, depending on the municipality and income;
• verify requirements for residence and work permits, especially the 2026 law of 2021, which offers incentives up to 15,000 francs for companies hiring qualified migrants;
• participate in training courses and info sessions organized by USI and other local entities;
• activate digital tools like the inclusion portal and salary calculator to plan your career precisely.

Practical scenarios show that a migrant earning 50,000 francs annually can save about 1,000-2,000 francs per year thanks to tax benefits, and find more stable employment through targeted training programs. The collaboration between public and private sectors translates into tangible growth and stability opportunities, reducing onboarding times and improving job quality.

In summary, thoroughly understanding one's work and social situation through digital tools and support networks is an effective strategy for migrants aiming to integrate into Ticino’s economic and social fabric. Regularly consulting the official portal and using the salary calculator are essential steps toward building a solid, long-term professional future in the Canton.