Italy to Resume Accepting Dublin Asylum Cases From Switzerland

Italy is preparing to resume taking back asylum-seekers from Switzerland under the Dublin framework, following a prolonged suspension of returns since 2022.

The development marks a potential breakthrough in a long-standing dispute between the two countries over responsibility for asylum applications within Europe.

Transfers Expected to Restart Soon

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) confirmed that Italy is once again willing to accept Dublin cases. According to SEM spokesperson Magdalena Rast, the first transfers are expected to resume once the new EU migration pact is fully implemented.

Switzerland has remained in contact with Italian authorities to coordinate the restart of returns, although exact timelines and capacity remain uncertain.

Authorities estimate that more than 1,200 asylum-seekers currently in Switzerland could eventually be transferred back to Italy under the renewed arrangement.

Italy Had Suspended Returns Since 2022

Italy had stopped accepting Dublin returns in 2022, repeatedly signalling concerns over migration pressure at its external borders. Although temporary assurances were given in the past, they were not implemented, leaving Switzerland unable to carry out transfers under the system.

The renewed cooperation now appears linked to broader changes in European migration policy.

EU Migration Pact Brings New Solidarity Mechanism

The shift is associated with the EU migration pact, which entered into force on Friday. A central feature of the pact is a solidarity mechanism designed to distribute responsibility more evenly among European countries.

Under this system, EU member states can choose between accepting asylum-seekers, providing financial contributions, or offering operational support such as personnel to frontline states facing high migration pressure.

Switzerland to Participate in New Framework

Although Switzerland is not an EU member, it intends to take part in the solidarity mechanism. However, this participation will require a formal agreement with the European Union.

The Swiss Federal Council is expected to decide annually how the country contributes to the mechanism, balancing financial, operational, and relocation-based options.

Step Toward Greater Migration Coordination

If fully implemented, the renewed Dublin cooperation between Switzerland and Italy could ease pressure on Switzerland’s asylum system and improve coordination within Europe’s broader migration framework.

However, officials stress that the scale and speed of future transfers remain uncertain as implementation details are still being worked out.