Language courses could become mandatory for non-EU immigrants (Keystone)

The justice ministry appears to have some way to go to win support for its proposals aimed at boosting integration of foreigners.

The increased role of the government and the financial support for the mooted steps as well as what is considered a certain vagueness of the measures could become stumbling blocks for necessary legal reform.

“Switzerland can and must do more to integrate foreigners even if it we do not have major integration problems,” said Justice Minister Simonetta Sommaruga at the presentation of proposals on Wednesday.

She stressed the key importance of knowing at least one of Switzerland’s four official languages – German, French, Italian or Romansh – to assimilate and praised the efforts undertaken so far by schools, employers as well as private associations.

Sommaruga also described an agreement with cantonal authorities to increase cooperation as a “milestone”.

The proposals notably foresee mandatory language courses for family members of immigrants from outside European Union countries, as well as for the renewal of limited residence permits or the granting of a permanent licence.

All the 26 cantons, which traditionally enjoy wide-ranging autonomy, would have to agree formal integration accords with newly arrived individuals and welcome them officially.

The proposed package comes with an SFr40 million ($43.5 million) increase in funding for integration efforts to SFr110 million annually by 2014.

Note by the editor: Definately all Immigrants will appreciate easier access to language education.