India and Switzerland Sign Migration and Professional Exchange Pacts
India and Switzerland signed agreements to facilitate legal migration, introduce five-year multiple-entry visas, and exchange up to 500 young professionals annually.
The Government of India and the Swiss government signed a series of agreements to strengthen cooperation in migration, mobility, and professional exchanges. A central Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement establishes a framework for legal migration and measures to combat human trafficking. This pact introduces multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years, allowing visitors to stay for up to six months per visit, alongside renewable one-year student permits.
Under a new Young Professionals Agreement, the two nations will initially exchange 300 young professionals annually, with the potential to increase that number to 500. These mobility initiatives are paired with expanded collaboration in scientific research, innovation, and transportation technologies. Specific areas of focus include sustainable infrastructure, tunnels, ropeways, and electric vehicles.
These agreements coincide with India's ongoing efforts to deepen economic ties with the European Free Trade Association, of which Switzerland is a member.
