What effect does – especially a no deal – Brexit have on British athletes who want to participate in international competitions or trainings in Switzerland in the future?

Do British athletes need a visa to enter Switzerland and the Schengen area and do they need additionally a special permit to participate in competitions or trainings (up to max. 2 months) in Switzerland?

The participation in international competitions does not constitute gainful employment under the Swiss law on foreigners and integration. Therefore, no special work permit is required for the athletes to participate in international competitions or trainings in Switzerland. This also applies to athletes of the UK after a Brexit, as well as to athletes from other non-EU/EFTA countries.

It is expected that by the time, the UK leaves the EU, the EU and Switzerland will exempt British citizens from a visa requirement to enter the Schengen area.

Please keep in mind, that the authorities may adopt amendments to the regulations on entry requirements at any time.

 

Interested to know more? The HütteLAW team will be happy to advise you.

Authors: Cornelia Arnold and Stephanie Kaiser