On 21 October 2025, Switzerland and the UK agreed to extend the Services Mobility Agreement (SMA) until 31 December 2029.
Originally introduced after Brexit, the SMA ensures that service providers such as consultants, IT specialists, and engineers can continue to work across borders with ease — preserving business continuity and access to talent between both markets.
Under this framework:
UK professionals can still provide services in Switzerland for up to 90 days per year via a simple online notification. Swiss service suppliers benefit from preferential access to over 30 sectors in the UK.
Certain Swiss professional and vocational qualifications are now mutually recognised, strengthening labour mobility and competitiveness.
The agreement remains in place while both countries negotiate a broader Free Trade Agreement on services.
💼 *Impact for Companies*
– Ease of cross-border collaboration: Swiss and UK firms can continue to deploy staff for short-term projects without complex visa hurdles.
– Market continuity: The agreement preserves access to clients and partners in both markets, ensuring predictable business operations.
-Talent flexibility: Companies retain the ability to mobilise specialised professionals quickly — a crucial factor in consulting, engineering, and tech sectors.
👩💼 *Impact for Individuals*
– Simplified mobility: UK and Swiss professionals can still work abroad temporarily under clear, straightforward rules.
– Recognition of qualifications: More Swiss credentials are now accepted in the UK, opening new career paths.
– Professional stability: The extension guarantees continuity for those already active under the SMA framework.
📅 The extension enters into force on 1 December 2025, securing vital cross-border service mobility until end of 2029 — a strong signal of continued partnership between Switzerland and the UK.
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