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 X-Expats interviewed Beat Britt, EURES Advisor in the Office of Economy and Labor in Basel. Switzerland has been part of the EURES network since June 1, 2002. EURES (EURopean Employment Services) was founded in 1993 with the ambition to promote the mobility of workers and their equal access to each European country‘s job market; increase interregional, cross-border recruitment; enhance transparency and the exchange of information on vacancies in the European job market; and inform people outside Europe about professional opportunities in the region.
X-Expats: How can Swiss nationals get in touch with your organization?
Beat Britt: There are two websites: www.ec.europa.eu/eures and EURES. Both provide the contact information of Swiss EURES advisors. People may also reach us at
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.
X-E: Do you maintain statistics on return migration to Switzerland? Is there a typical profile of a Swiss returning expat?
BB: Every year, about 25,000 Swiss citizens return to Switzerland. Reasons for returning are numerous and diverse.
There is no typical profile: Some have completed their contracts or studies, others wish to continue their careers in Switzerland, want to be closer to their families, are homesick, or just miss the mountains, chocolates and cheese!
X-E: In your practice, are there regions of Switzerland that attract a large number of returning expats?
BB: There are no statistics available. This is also dependent upon the motivation for moving back. If expats return for professional reasons, large cities like Zurich, Basel, Geneva or Berne are most attractive.
X-E: How would you describe the job market in your country for individuals with international expertise/multicultural skills?
BB: Excellent. In Switzerland, more than 20% of the population has a foreign passport; this means that we are a very multicultural country (besides the 4 official languages German, French, Italian and Rumantsch as well as English as the fifth unofficial language). Mid and large Swiss companies prefer people with  international expertise because they do business all over the world (i.e. Finance, Life sciences, chemistry, trade, jewelry, etc.). Knowledge of foreign languages and cultures is always an advantage.
X-E: What recommendations do you have for Swiss returning expats to prepare for their return home? What steps do they need to take prior to departure and upon their reentry into Switzerland?
BB: There is an excellent website from the Federal Office for Migration providing information on entry formalities, registration, job search, unemployment and social assistance.
X-E: Are there specific resources you would recommend for returning expats who wish to become entrepreneurs?
BB: Everything people need to know to start a business in Switzerland may be found on this fact sheet. Resources (in German language) are also available at: kmuadmi and gruenden.
X-E: Thank you Beat for your time and providing this valuable information to Swiss returning expats!
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