Swiss migration and crime policy regarding North Africans

Data from the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) indicates that approximately 80.5 percent of asylum seekers from North African countries were accused of criminal offenses during or after their asylum proceedings in 2024. This rate is notably higher than the 12.3 to 12.5 percent crime rate reported among asylum seekers from all other countries of origin.

In response to these statistics, Swiss authorities implemented a ‘24-hour’ rule in 2024 to accelerate asylum procedures for applicants from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, who face a 99 percent rejection rate for their claims. SEM spokesperson Daniel Bach stated, ‘Criminals must leave Switzerland quickly. That is a priority of the asylum strategy.’

To address delays caused by applicants refusing to provide fingerprints or missing deportation appointments, authorities are considering the systematic use of coercive measures and stricter administrative detention for repeat offenders. Additionally, Switzerland has entered into an agreement with Morocco to facilitate faster returns and deportations.