Switzerland Rejects Immigration cap Proposal
Last update: March 17, 2026
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Authorities warn plan could strain relations with the European Union.
The Swiss government on Monday rejected a proposal by the hard right to cap immigration in order to prevent the population from reaching 10 million before 2050, warning it could harm relations with the European Union.
Swiss voters will decide on June 14 on the proposal titled “No to a Switzerland of 10 million residents,” promoted by the Swiss People’s Party, the country’s largest political party.
The initiative calls for Switzerland’s permanent resident population to remain below 10 million before 2050. If the limit is exceeded, the government would be required to terminate international agreements seen as driving population growth.
The government warned the plan could have far reaching consequences, including undermining agreements with the EU such as the free movement of people.
Switzerland is not an EU member but is surrounded by EU countries and is part of the Schengen open borders zone.
Officials also noted that a recently signed package of agreements with Brussels includes a safeguard clause allowing Switzerland to restrict immigration in the event of serious economic or social problems.
According to official figures, Switzerland’s population is about 9.14 million, with foreign nationals making up roughly 27 percent. Net migration is the main driver of population growth.
