Permits for musicians from third countries in Switzerland
During parliamentary question time, Basel National Councillor Markus Lehmann asked the Federal Council for a statement on the city of Basel's licensing practice for foreign musicians. Federal Councillor Sommaruga did so.
National Councillor Lehmann wanted to know why "excellent, specialized, self-employed foreign musicians" who do not come from EU/EFTA countries should not live and work in Switzerland and what measures the Federal Council, together with the cantons, is prepared to examine and apply generously so that the many classical orchestras can continue to employ and employ highly qualified musicians.
According to Federal Councillor Sommaruga, the Foreign Nationals Act allows qualified workers from non-EU/EFTA states, i.e. from third countries, "to pursue self-employment, provided this is in the interests of the economy as a whole, they have the necessary financial and operational requirements and the maximum numbers, i.e. the quotas, are adhered to".
A macroeconomic interest is deemed to exist if the self-employed activity results in a sustainable benefit for the Swiss labor market, for example through the creation of jobs. Outside of the quota-based admission, the cantons could issue a permit within the framework of temporary short-stay permits - up to 8 months within 12 months - without taking up residence in Switzerland. In addition to professional qualifications, a secure income, i.e. a livelihood, is a basic requirement.
According to the Federal Councillor, qualified musicians from third countries can already be admitted to the labor market within the framework of these legal bases. If the cantons have special requests for more generous regulations, these will be examined by the federal government - but always within the legal framework.
The question was triggered by a Messagewhich threatens half a hundred professional musicians from non-EU countries, some of whom have been working and teaching in Basel for years, with deportation.
