Access to the labour market

Before you may take up employment, your residential status must be clarified by the local community office where you live. Residence and work permit requirements depend on your nationality, the reason for your stay and how long you intend to be here. This also applies to anyone who has recently arrived in Switzerland on the grounds of family reunification («Familiennachzug») or because they are in a partnership with a resident.

The free movement of persons generally applies to EU/EFTA nationals. You may take up paid employment if you have signed an employment contract with an employer in Switzerland or have a residence permit as a self-employed person in Switzerland. Non-EU/EFTA nationals (third-country nationals) may only start a job if they have a work permit. This is the responsibility of the employer. We recommend that you contact your local community office or the Zurich Office for Economy («Amt für Wirtschaft») as soon as you plan to look for work.

Finding a job

Job offers can be found on online or in newspapers, and there are also private employment agencies. If you wish to apply for job, you will have to submit various documents such as your CV, a motivation letter and, if available, copies of your degree certificates, diplomas and job references.

Recognition of diplomas

We recommend that you enquire about the recognition of your non-Swiss diplomas and certificates as soon as possible. Depending on the industry, the recognition procedures are complex and may require a long validation time. Not all non-Swiss diplomas and certificates are automatically recognised in Switzerland.

Career advice

For questions concerning your career opportunities in Switzerland, please contact your regional Vocational Information Centre.