Migration
Irregular migration declined in 2025.
Irregular migration to Switzerland declined in 2025. A total of 14,577 cases were recorded, representing a significant decrease compared to the previous year. The individuals apprehended were primarily from Turkey, Afghanistan and Morocco. Cases involving suspected smuggling activities also declined.
Irregular migration decreases
In 2025, 14,577 cases of irregular entry were recorded. This marks a significant decrease compared to the previous year (2024: 29,458).
The individuals apprehended were primarily Turkish nationals (1,933), followed by persons from Afghanistan (1,842) and Morocco (1,174).
In 182 cases, the FOCBS reported suspectedhuman smuggling activities to the competent cantonal police authorities – compared to 280 cases in the previous year. Furthermore, 2,449 irregular migrants were handed over to foreign. This figure is also lower than in the previous year (2024: 4,765).
In addition to the FOCBS, the police also record findings in the area of unlawful residence. The corresponding nationwide figures are published by the Federal Statistical Office as part of the Police Crime Statistics (PCS). The enforcement of foreign nationals’ legislation under the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act (FNIA) generally falls within the responsibility and competence of the cantons.
The FOCBS works closely with cantonal and national authorities in the field of migration. Responsibility for analysing the overall migration situation in Switzerland lies primarily with the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). The FOCBS maintains close dialogue with its domestic and international partner authorities — particularly the SEM — in order to respond to changing developments at an early stage.
