Emigrants and immigrants
At the end of the 19th century, Switzerland changed from a land of emigrants to one of immigrants. Many migrants have left traces that today can be found in the Swiss Federal Archives.
Up to the end of the 19th century, the migratory balance in Switzerland was negative – Switzerland was a country of emigration. The reasons were manifold: some found the prospect of work abroad or accounts from family members who had already emigrated enticing, whilst others were forced to leave by abject poverty.
The waves of migration, especially during the 1880s, led to a shortage of workers at the beginning of the 20th century. In turn, this led to an influx of foreign labourers into Switzerland. Together with refugees and asylum seekers, they turned Switzerland into a country of immigration.
Are you lookig for traces of your ancestors who once immigrated to Switzerland? Or who perhaps left the country with the help of an emigration agency? You may find documents of this nature in the Swiss Federal Archives. Extensive documentation on the immigration of important figures in the worlds of culture and academia can sometimes also be found in person-related files held by the Swiss Federal Archives.
In search of family history
Anyone wishing to research their family history will probably get the best results from the archives of their town or canton of origin. The Swiss Federal Archives only contain documents relating to private persons who have come into contact with the federal administration – for instance, because they were refugees or emigrants.
Switzerland – land of emigration
Migration to and from Switzerland was already a constant occurrence prior to 1800. Mercenaries joining foreign armies was the most significant form of emigration for a long time. But Switzerland did not really become a country of emigration until the 19th century. Many left Switzerland due to poverty. Emigration agencies often placed them in Swiss colonies; the Federal Emigration Office monitored emigration.
Switzerland – land of immigration
At the end of the 19th century, Switzerland changed from a land of emigrants to one of immigrants. Political refugees sought asylum here whilst the economy recruited foreign labourers for the parched Swiss labour market. Immigration had significant effects on economic and social life in Switzerland.
Traces of significant figures of contemporary history
Many famous people have left behind traces that are held by the Swiss Federal Archives. The private fonds of federal councillors, for instance, often yield abundant research results. There are also private archives and person-related files with information on many academics, artists and well-known foreigners.
Swiss Federal Archives
Archivstrasse 24
CH - 3003 Bern