Removal order

A removal order is an administrative decision requiring a foreign national to leave Switzerland, often within a specified deadline. It may follow refusal of a permit, expiry or revocation of residence rights, rejection of an asylum claim, or unlawful stay. The order must respect procedural guarantees, proportionality, family life, non-refoulement, and any applicable appeal rights. If voluntary departure does not occur, enforcement measures may follow, including detention in legally defined circumstances. Removal is distinct from expulsion as a criminal or security measure, although the practical result may also be departure from Switzerland.