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How employment law works in Switzerland
Employment law in Switzerland is based mainly on federal law, which sets out the core rules for the contract of employment. Cantons can add certain rules, and in some sectors collective agreements set further terms for the industries they cover.
The individual contract of employment is central, and it operates within the framework of federal law and any applicable collective agreement. Employers and employees generally have considerable freedom to agree terms within that framework.
Because federal, cantonal and sectoral layers can interact, the practical starting point is the individual contract together with any collective agreement and the relevant federal rules.
Key concepts to understand
- The individual contract of employment and any applicable collective agreement.
- Working time, rest and how hours are arranged.
- Holiday entitlement and forms of statutory leave.
- Ending employment and the relevant protections.
- Equal treatment and protection from discrimination.
- Occupational health and safety duties.
- Cantonal rules that may apply in addition to federal law.
- Work and residence authorisation for foreign nationals.
How the employment relationship is formed and governed
- A relationship usually begins with an offer and a contract of employment.
- Federal law, any applicable collective agreement and cantonal rules govern the terms.
- Sectoral collective agreements can set additional terms where they apply.
- Employers confirm that foreign nationals hold the necessary permission to work.
- Company policies and the contract shape day-to-day expectations.
Authorities and where to confirm the detail
The Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) is the federal body responsible for economic and labour matters, and the Staatssekretariat für Migration (SEM) handles immigration and work authorisation. Cantonal offices administer additional rules at local level.
Because federal, cantonal and sectoral rules can change and interact, employers and employees should confirm the current position with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser before relying on a general summary.
Practical points for employers and employees
- Read the individual contract alongside any applicable collective agreement.
- Check whether cantonal rules add to the federal framework for the workplace.
- Confirm work and residence permissions for foreign nationals.
- Document key terms clearly so expectations are shared.
- Use official sources such as SECO and SEM to confirm current requirements.
Official sources to confirm current rules
Requirements change and specifics vary. Confirm the current position with the official authority for this jurisdiction:
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