Federal Office for Migration FOM

The FOM is responsible for all matters relating to legislation on foreign nationals and asylum.

The office regulates immigration into Switzerland and in the Swiss labour market. It also rules on which individuals can be considered to be refugees and hence receive protection.

Foreign nationals living here on a permanent basis should be as well integrated as possible, if necessary with state assistance. The FOM, in conjunction with the communes and the cantons, is responsible for naturalisation procedures.

It also encourages the voluntary return of asylum seekers to their country of origin and assists in the repatriation of asylum seekers whose applications have been turned down and foreign nationals who are residing illegally in Switzerland.

The FOM maintains an international dialogue with countries of origin, transit countries and other host countries on all issues relating to migration.