Job Application Documents in Switzerland
A Swiss job application has its own conventions. While international standards are gaining ground, Swiss HR departments still expect a complete dossier including a professional photo (in German-speaking Switzerland), all work references, and a precisely targeted cover letter. Here is what you need.
- Swiss employment law explained for international professionals
- Legal basis, practical advice and what to do
- Relevant for expats, cross-border workers and newcomers
The Swiss CV (Lebenslauf / Curriculum Vitae)
A standard Swiss CV is: 2 pages maximum, in reverse chronological order, with a professional photo (standard in German Switzerland, optional in French Switzerland), contact details, education, work history, languages (with level: A1–C2), and IT skills. Swiss employers value precision: include months, not just years. A gap in your employment history should be briefly explained. Foreign applicants should note: Swiss employers often are unfamiliar with foreign qualifications, a brief note explaining the equivalent level is helpful.
Cover Letter (Motivationsschreiben / Lettre de motivation)
The Swiss cover letter is 1 page, formal and targeted. Avoid generic templates, Swiss HR professionals read hundreds of cover letters and notice immediately. Structure: opening referencing the specific position, 2–3 paragraphs with concrete examples of achievements matching the job requirements, closing with availability and interview request. Language: formal register (Du/vous not appropriate, use Sie/vous), Hochdeutsch (no dialect). The cover letter should complement, not repeat, the CV.
The Work Reference (Arbeitszeugnis)
The Arbeitszeugnis is unique to Switzerland, Germany and Austria, a mandatory written reference from every employer, typically 1–2 pages, covering the employee's activities and conduct. Swiss HR professionals are trained to read coded language: the absence of certain positive phrases can signal problems. Collect all your Arbeitszeugnisse, they are expected in any Swiss application. Foreign applicants: if you do not have equivalent references, explain this in a brief cover letter note and provide international reference contacts instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a photo required on a Swiss CV?
In German-speaking Switzerland, a professional photo is standard practice and its absence may be noticed negatively. In French-speaking Switzerland (Romandie), it is less mandatory. In international/English-language environments, no photo is the norm. When in doubt, include a professional photo.
How important is the Arbeitszeugnis compared to international references?
Very. Swiss employers give the Arbeitszeugnis significant weight, it covers the full employment period, not just a snapshot. They are legally required to be truthful and benevolent. Bring all past Arbeitszeugnisse to your interview if possible.
What is the biggest mistake foreigners make in Swiss job applications?
The most common mistakes: submitting a CV longer than 2 pages; not including relevant certifications and diplomas; omitting months in job dates; using a generic cover letter; failing to explain foreign qualifications. Informal tone is also a frequent issue, Swiss business communication is formal.
Swiss Code of Obligations (CO Art. 335 ff.) · SECO · admin.ch