Voluntary Return

Refugees might wish to exercise their right to voluntary return permanently to their home country. This is an intensely personal, and often complicated and difficult decision to make.

All refugees have the fundamental right to return to their country of origin at a time of their choosing.

Such returns must be voluntary, dignified, and safe and based on an informed and independent decision, rather than being induced by pressure or fear.

If you wish to voluntarily return to your home country permanently, you can do so at any time. However, if you reside in Switzerland and:

➡️ You hold an N permit, your asylum procedure will be terminated.

➡️ You hold a B permit or an F permit, your status and residence permit will be withdrawn.

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), together with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and other partners, supports persons who wish to voluntarily return to their home country. They will help you with the organisation of your trip, your arrival and reintegration in your home country.

If you are considering returning voluntarily to your country of origin, we recommend contacting the return counselling service in your canton of residence. If you are currently living in a Federal Asylum Centre, IOM provides on-site return counselling in most of them. In case of doubt reach out to your legal representative or a cantonal legal counselling service.

If you are currently in detention, visit the website Retour – Returning home for more specific information.

• Read more information about return assistance and consult the factsheet provided by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

• Check out the information (available in German and French) on voluntary return and reintegration assistance provided by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) – Switzerland.

Last update: 6 May 2026