U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 World’s Best Countries ranking shows Switzerland as No. 1 overall for the third consecutive year. The annual report reflects survey results of over 20,000 respondents. The study surveyed these people about their individual views of 80 different countries, on 75 different metrics. The rankings are the result of a partnership between U.S. News & World Report, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and BAV Group.
What are the Top 10 Countries?
According to the ranking, the top 10 world’s best countries are:
- Switzerland
- Japan
- Canada
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- Sweden
- Australia
- United States
- Norway
- France
Why Switzerland is No. 1
Switzerland is seen as a top country in surveys and reports for several reasons, including:
- Access to Capital
- Business Friendly
- Economic Stability
- High Quality of Life
- Innovation
- Legal Framework
- Neutrality
- Prestige
Immigration to Switzerland
Immigration to Switzerland, one of the world’s best countries, depends on several factors. Switzerland permits visitors to stay in the country as tourists for up to 90 days without registration. However, tourists are forbidden to work during this time period. Those who want to work in Switzerland must obtain immigration authorization. These authorizations vary by status:
- Citizens of the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) do not need a visa if they have a local employment contract.
- Non-EU and non-EFTA citizens require a work authorization and a visa prior to entering Switzerland.
- Those over 18 with plans to stay beyond 12 months must provide a copy of their criminal record, or proof that there is no record.
The Swiss Authorities provide many helpful guidelines for people who want to enter and stay in the country. Foreign nationals can choose the entry path that best fits their requirements. Also, several of the entry paths have various degrees and levels to meet individual situations. Entry paths include:
- Applying for Asylum
- Foreign National’s Right to Reside Following Divorce or Death of Spouse
- Foreign Nationals Wishing to Stay Other Than to Work (Study, Retire)
- Letter of Invitation and Declaration of Sponsorship
- Loss of Residence Permit – Replacement
- Short-Term Stay
- Residence Permits
- Visa for Entry
What does this mean?
Those who want to enter and stay in one of the world’s best countries have many options. Countries such as Switzerland welcome foreign nationals, as they recognize the value that diverse populations bring to their societies. They also provide helpful resources for newly arrived foreign nationals so they can learn the German language, and how best to integrate into Switzerland’s local culture and society.
What should Employers expect?
Employers in Switzerland should expect to see an increase in the number of foreign job seekers from non-EU and non-EFTA countries. They should also expect to see a rise in the need for language and integration courses.
Employers not currently in Switzerland might consider the country as a strategic location for corporate expansion. The services of an International Professional Employer Organization (PEO) may be useful to help an employer enter one of the world’s best countries and quickly test the local market.
What should Employers do?
Employers in Switzerland should review their company’s growth plans and requirements for jobs across all levels of skill sets. They should also determine how their company’s growth plans will impact the jobs required to meet business plans and goals.
Employers outside of Switzerland should investigate the services of an International PEO. Relocation Management Companies (RMCs) can provide expert assistance and helpful information to employers looking to expand their corporate presence to one of the world’s best countries.
Conclusion
GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients develop relocation programs that attract and retain qualified employees across the world’s best countries. Our team can help your company determine how to benefit from Switzerland’s rank as the No. 1 best country in the world.
GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.
Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s relocation and visa program needs, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.
