Training 2026: Courses and funding (cross-border guide)

Contesto

In brief - Vocational training courses for cross-border commuters within 20 km in 2026 - New Cross-Border Commuters Agreement in force from 1 January 2024 - Funding and facilities for retraining ## Key facts - What: Vocational training courses for cross-border commuters - When: 2026 - Where: Within 20 km - Who: Cross-border commuters - Amount: Not yet specified The new Cross-Border Commuters Agreement, signed on 23 December 2020 and in force from 1 January 2024, introduces new vocational training opportunities for cross-border commuters. This agreement, ratified by Italy with Law 83 of 13 June 2023, provides for retraining courses within 20 km of the workplace, with funding and facilities for participants. ### New training opportunities The new Cross-Border Commuters' Agreement offers cross-border commuters the opportunity to access recognised vocational training courses, with the aim of improving their skills and increasing career opportunities. These courses are funded and supported by bodies such as SECO and SEM, which collaborate with the Italian authorities to ensure the quality and effectiveness of training initiatives. ### Funding and subsidies Cross-border commuters who wish to participate in these courses can benefit from funding and facilitations, which cover part or all of the cost of the training. The benefits include contributions for course attendance, teaching materials and, in some cases, even support for transport and canteen. ### Evaluation of the practical return To assess the practical return of vocational training, cross-border commuters can consider several factors, including increasing skills, access to new job opportunities and the possibility of obtaining a higher salary. In addition, vocational education and training can help to improve the quality of life and promote integration into the Swiss labour market. ### Operational checklist To participate in vocational training courses, cross-border commuters must follow a series of operational steps: 1. Inquire: Contact SECO or SEM to obtain information on available courses and admission requirements. 2. Register: Fill in the application form and send it to the competent bodies. 3. Check funding: Check the available subsidies and submit the necessary documentation to obtain contributions. 4. Participate: Regular attendance of courses and active participation in training activities. 5. Evaluate: Monitor progress and evaluate the practical return of vocational training.

Dettagli operativi

Scenario comparison To better understand the opportunities offered by vocational training courses, it is useful to compare different scenarios: #### Scenario 1: Cross-border commuters without vocational training A cross-border commuter who does not participate in vocational training may find himself in a stalemate in his career, with limited opportunities for advancement and a salary that remains the same. In addition, it may struggle to keep up with the pace of technological innovations and new skills required by the labor market. #### Scenario 2: Cross-border commuters with vocational training A cross-border commuter who participates in vocational training courses can benefit from an increase in skills, new job opportunities and a potential increase in salary. In addition, vocational education and training can help to improve the quality of life and promote integration into the Swiss labour market. ### Comparison Table | Scenario | Skills | Careers | Salary | Quality of life | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Without training | Limited | Limited | Unchanged | Low | | With training | Augmented | Augmented | Potentially Increased | High | ### Practical advice To maximise the benefits of vocational training, cross-border commuters can follow some practical advice: - Choose recognised courses: Make sure that the courses are recognised and certified by competent bodies. - Actively participate: Be present and actively participate in training activities. - Monitor progress: Regularly evaluate progress and adapt the learning path as needed. - Use available resources: Benefit from the funding and subsidies available to cover the costs of training.

Useful tools for your case

To verify your within/over 20 km tax scenario, use the net salary calculator and the tax return guide.

Punti chiave

Step-by-step procedure

To participate in professional training courses, cross-border commuters must follow a step-by-step procedure: 1. Get informed: Contact the SECO or SEM to obtain information about available courses and admission requirements. 2. Register: Fill out the registration form and send it to the competent authorities. 3. Check funding: Verify available benefits and submit the necessary documentation to obtain contributions. 4. Participate: Regular attendance at courses and active participation in training activities. 5. Evaluate: Monitor progress and evaluate the practical return of professional training.

Deadlines and required documents

Deadlines for registering for professional training courses may vary depending on the course and the organizing entity. It is important to check the deadlines and submit the required documentation in a timely manner. The required documents may include:

• Identification document: Passport or identity card.
• Work certificate: Document attesting to employment in Switzerland.
• Financial documentation: Documents demonstrating the ability to cover the costs of training.

Site tools

To explore professional training opportunities and evaluate the practical return, cross-border commuters can use the tools available on the Frontaliere Ticino website, such as the salary calculator and the training course comparator.

Final CTA

To calculate your net salary and evaluate professional training opportunities, use our salary calculator.