Work permits
Work permits are mandatory not only for employees with foreign nationality, but also for working at night or on Sundays.
Individuals with foreign nationality require a permit to work for a company in Switzerland. It is the responsibility of employers to file permit applications, except for nationals of the European Union (EU) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), who must declare themselves to the relevant employment and migration offices.
With regard to working at night, on Sundays or on public holidays, an employer who cannot run its business during these periods must make inquiries about the laws on the protection of workers and ensure that its company complies with these laws. It can then file a permit application. (See also: Working at night and on Sundays)
Free movement between Switzerland and the European Union
Thanks to bilateral agreements, nationals from EU and EFTA countries are, in principle, able to freely choose their places of residence and of work. However, they must declare themselves to the relevant authorities in order to be able to then look for work. After a three-month period, a residence permit is necessary to stay in Switzerland and work. (See also: Free movement between Switzerland and the European Union)
Workers from outside the EU
Nationals of countries not members of the EU or EFTA require an employment contract and permit to be able to work on Swiss territory. (See also: Foreign nationals)
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Foreign nationals
Foreign nationals (from outside the EU) need a permit to work in Switzerland. Only a restricted number of applicants are issued this permit.
Free movement between Switzerland and the European Union
In Switzerland, European nationals benefit from agreements on the free movement of persons.