Working In Switzerland: All Requirements At A Glance

Switzerland offers a wide range of employment opportunities for international students and graduates. Whether you’re looking for flexible student jobs to supplement your finances or career opportunities that provide valuable practical experience, Switzerland has something for you. Here, you’ll find out what requirements you need to meet in order to work during and after your studies in Switzerland.

Regulations For Working In Switzerland During Your Studies

In Switzerland, different regulations apply to the work permits for international students, depending on their country of origin. Students from EU/EFTA countries have more flexible options compared to students from non-EU/EFTA countries:

Students from EU/EFTA countries do not require a specific work permit but can work up to 15 hours per week during the semester. Full-time work is permitted during semester breaks.

Students from non-EU/EFTA countries need an additional work permit, which is issued by the cantonal migration office. After six months of residence in Switzerland, they can also work up to 15 hours per week, but only with the approval of their university and the cantonal employment office.

In both cases, it is important that the studies remain the primary focus and that the working hours do not interfere with academic performance.

Discover The Best Student Jobs In Switzerland

For students in Switzerland, there are numerous lucrative and flexible job opportunities that can both support living expenses and provide valuable work experience. Here are some of the top options:

• Student Assistant Positions: These are highly sought after as they allow you to gain practical experience in your field of study. These positions are often found in IT, engineering, marketing, or finance and offer earnings between 20 and 35 CHF per hour.

• Retail & Hospitality Jobs: These often come with flexible working hours, making them particularly attractive. Typical roles include cashier, sales assistant, waiter, or barista, with earnings of around 18 to 25 CHF per hour.

• Tutoring: You can offer tutoring in subjects where you excel, such as mathematics, languages, or natural sciences. Earnings in this area range from 25 to 50 CHF per hour.

• Freelancing & Online Work: This offers a flexible option for students who want to use their skills in areas such as writing, translating, graphic design, or programming. These jobs often allow you to work from home and can earn between 30 and 80 CHF per hour, depending on skills and the project.

• Research & Teaching Assistant Positions: Roles such as research assistant or tutor are often available at universities and offer earnings of about 25 to 40 CHF per hour. These positions provide valuable experience and insights into the academic world, and often offer interesting networking opportunities.

• Event & Promotion Jobs: Jobs like event helper or product promoter offer short-term employment with interesting earning opportunities ranging from 20 to 30 CHF per hour.

Regulations For Working In Switzerland After Graduation

After completing a study program in Switzerland, international graduates may have the opportunity to stay and work in the country under certain conditions:

Extended Residence Permit

Graduates of Swiss universities can apply for a residence permit for up to six months to search for a job that matches their qualification level. This period can be used to find a full-time position. Proof must be provided that active job searching is taking place during this time. Additionally, proof of financial means is required in case a job is not found.

Work Permit After Graduation

If a suitable job offer is available, graduates can apply for a work permit. The issuance depends on whether the position meets the requirements and how the job market evaluates the qualifications. The work permit is generally granted for the duration of the employment contract, and specific criteria must be met, such as having a valid employment contract and sufficient salary payments.

Tax Situation In Switzerland

In Switzerland, the tax situation for students and graduates depends on their income and the canton in which they reside. Here are the key details:

During Studies: Those who work while studying are subject to taxation. The amount of tax depends on the income and the canton. For the year 2024, the tax-free basic amount for single individuals is approximately 3,000 to 5,000 CHF per year, depending on the canton. Income up to this amount is tax-free. Earnings above this threshold are subject to income tax.

After Graduation: After graduation, the entire annual income is subject to income tax. The tax rate is based on the income and the residence canton. In Switzerland, income is taxed progressively. Tax rates start at about 0.77% for income up to 14,500 CHF (cantonal and municipal taxes) and can reach up to 40% for income exceeding 1 million CHF, depending on the canton and municipality.  

Deductions & Benefits: Students and entry-level professionals can claim certain deductions, such as job-related expenses, insurance premiums, and education costs. These deductions reduce the taxable income.