Labour law

In Switzerland, employers can dismiss an employee for economic reasons or for reasons of incompatibility, without being liable for substantial severance pay.

Notice required to terminate an employment contract:

• probationary period: 7 days
• first year of employment: 1 month
• second to ninth year of employment: 2 months
• more than 9 years of employment: 3 months

The employer can dispense with the notice period if the employee's contract is terminated due to gross negligence. 

The employment contract at a glance

• Weekly working hours:

40 - 42 (maximum 45)
Annual average: 1,844 hours

• Overtime:

Hours not included in the daily working hours

• Compensation:

Overtime is compensated by time off in lieu or paid at one and a quarter times the usual salary.

• Compensation for overtime:

Overtime (from the 46th hour of work) is compensated by time off in lieu or paid at one and a quarter times the usual salary, except for employees in management positions.

• Night work and public holidays:

Subject to authorisation

• Holidays:

Employees under 20 years of age: 25 days
Employees over 21 years of age: 20 days
Employees over 50 years of age: generally 25 days