Despite Switzerland’s tradition of migration, most foreigners are still considered a threat to Swiss values and identity, especially those from outside the European Union (EU) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) whose permit conditions are more restrictive. In this context, different migratory groups face similar structural challenges. Based on this assumption, this paper compares the results of two qualitative studies conducted with the two most vulnerable regular migrant groups in Switzerland, according to their migratory
project: women from third countries with university diplomas and asylum seekers. Both projects were conducted using semi-structured interviews and the data were analyzed with thematic content analysis. Results demonstrate how these two groups might face similar difficulties for social and economical insertion, impacting their wellbeing, despite the different conditions of arrival. Our comparative perspective contributes to the understanding of current migration issues and to possible strategies to avoid the victimization of politically disadvantaged groups in Europe.