New UK-Switzerland agreement to allow professionals to work in the country
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UK-qualified professionals, such as lawyers and ski instructors, will be able to work in Switzerland thanks to a new agreement announced by ministers. The UK-Switzerland Recognition of Professional Qualifications Agreement ensures that over 200 British qualifications are recognised in Switzerland, says the Department for Business and Trade.
This replaces a similar agreement that expired at the end of 2024 while the UK was leaving the EU. The announcement coincides with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds' visit to Switzerland for the World Economic Forum annual meeting at Davos this week.
The department said that the new deal covers a wide range of professions, from auditors to driving instructors and cabin crew, and for the first time, anaesthetists. It takes the place of the citizens’ rights agreement reached in 2018 as the UK was exiting the EU, which provided similar cover for professional qualifications for UK and Swiss nationals living in both countries.
Drawing from his experience as a trainee solicitor, Mr Reynolds said: "I know the challenges faced by UK professionals when working abroad and innovative agreements like this will make a real difference to our world-class services sectors". He added: "As a resolutely pro-business Government, we want to make it as seamless as possible for UK businesses to operate abroad. With the UK and Switzerland being two global leaders in services trade, this agreement is testament to our unwavering commitment to economic growth.".
