Key Points at a Glance

• As an employer, you must comply with legal requirements regarding wages, working hours, and rest periods.
• In unregulated industries, local and industry-standard wages apply; for regulated industries, there are (mandatory) minimum wages.
• Rest periods and maximum working hours must be observed; night and Sunday work requires authorization, and working hours must be recorded.
• Ensure safe workplaces and protect your employees from accidents, illnesses, and psychosocial risks.
• All employees must be registered with the SVA Zürich (Kompetenzzentrum für Sozialversicherungen im Kanton Zürich) in Zurich. 

• Withholding taxes may need to be paid.

Wages and Wage Protection

In unregulated industries, wages customary for the location and industry apply. In regulated industries, minimum wages are set in collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) or in collective bargaining agreements declared generally binding (CBAs).

Working Hours and Rest Periods

You must comply with rest periods and maximum working hours. Time tracking is generally mandatory. You need a permit for night and Sunday work.

Occupational Safety and Health

Ensure safe workplaces and protect your employees from accidents, illnesses, and psychosocial risks.

Social Insurance and Withholding Tax

Register all employees with the SVA Zürich (Kompetenzzentrum für Sozialversicherungen im Kanton Zürich). Check with the cantonal tax office for the current withholding tax rate.