Switzerland faces significant delays in repatriating rejected Turkish asylum seekers due to identification difficulties and legal appeals. By the end of 2025, 4,490 Turkish nationals were in the asylum process, the highest number of any nation. The Swiss government plans to launch an informal annual migration dialogue with Turkey starting this autumn to address these administrative challenges.
Why are repatriations of rejected asylum seekers stalling?
Administrative hurdles regarding identification and document procurement are primary drivers of the delays. According to the Canton of Lucerne, Turkish authorities require the personal appearance of individuals for identity inquiries and interviews, which can lead to long waiting times.
The Canton of Lucerne also noted that once identity is proven, it takes approximately two weeks for Turkish authorities to issue a temporary replacement travel document. Furthermore, the Conference of Cantonal Police and Justice Directors stated that the frequent use of legal remedies and the current inability to conduct special repatriation flights to Turkey contribute to the backlog.
The Turkish Embassy in Bern has disputed these claims. In response to inquiries, the embassy stated that they handle procedures in a “quick, pragmatic, and harmonious” manner. The Swiss Federal Government and authorities in Aargau have also emphasized a positive level of cooperation with Turkish authorities.
What do the current asylum statistics reveal?
Turkish nationals represent a significant portion of the asylum caseload. By the end of 2025, 4,490 Turkish persons were in the process of determining their status, ranking first among all nations. While 2,534 Turkish nationals submitted asylum applications in 2025—placing them third behind Eritrea and Afghanistan—the majority do not remain in the country.
Data indicates that more than two-thirds of these applications are typically rejected. According to the Canton of Bern, Turkish nationals are disproportionately involved in pending multiple or reconsideration procedures. This results in longer stays and increased pressure on cantonal structures.
The impact is visible at the local level. In the Canton of Lucerne, 20 percent of those receiving emergency aid (Nothilfe) are Turkish nationals, a figure the canton describes as being higher than the general asylum statistics would suggest.
How is the Swiss government responding to the situation?
The Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) stated that processes are being “constantly optimized” and that cooperation with Turkey remains close. A key development is the announcement of a new “migration dialogue” between Switzerland and Turkey, scheduled to begin this autumn. This will serve as an informal, annual exchange of information.
Political pressure has also been applied to the federal level. Last December, Zurich Government Councilor Mario Fehr criticized the Federal Council, suggesting that Federal Councilor Beat Jans should travel to Istanbul to address the difficulties in returning rejected asylum seekers. Fehr noted that the current issues with repatriation are significant.
While Fehr’s initial criticism was met with tension in Bern, his department has since stated they are in intensive contact with the Federal Government and expect to find “common solutions” together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Turkish nationals are currently in the Swiss asylum process?
By the end of 2025, 4,490 Turkish nationals were in the process, which is the highest number of any nationality.
What are the main obstacles to returning rejected asylum seekers to Turkey?
Obstacles include difficult identification processes, the requirement for personal appearances at Turkish representations, delays in issuing travel documents, and the lack of special repatriation flights.
What is the new “migration dialogue”?
It is an informal, annual exchange between Switzerland and Turkey intended to improve cooperation, similar to dialogues Switzerland maintains with 30 other states.
How might the upcoming migration dialogue affect the speed of repatriations?
