WHAT IS IT LIKE TO WORK IN SWITZERLAND?

Switzerland is a country with a stable and organized economy, with low unemployment rate and at the same time high salaries. On top, many multinational companies offer positions for both domestic and foreign students simply looking for a part-time job to gain experience while still at university and graduates looking to build their career life there. Moreover, having a part-time job can give students valuable work skills and essential work habits if they manage to balance study and work. Working a part-time job is often a necessity for some students because of money concerns, especially in Switzerland, where prices are relatively high compared to other European countries. In Switzerland, students are allowed to work part-time up to 15 hours in total per week by law, but only after they have been in the country for six months at least. However, if students already hold a Master’s degree from a foreign university and they are currently working for their Swiss university or institute, they do not have to consider the six-months period and can start working straight away. It is a responsibility for the employer to apply for this permit on the student’s behalf.

There are regional differences when it comes to the Swiss labor market. In the bigger cities like Zurich for example, it is easier for students and graduates to find employment in their field. Zurich area is considered the banking center of Switzerland, whereas Basel is the Swiss hub for the pharmaceutical industry.

Average wages usually vary between twenty and thirty-five CHF depending on the type of the job and one’s skills set as well.