Job Application Documents in Switzerland

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.

Context on the Swiss job market helps frame any career decision in Switzerland. Our gross-to-net salary guide shows what Swiss gross salaries look like after AVS, LPP and tax deductions. The salary negotiation guide covers how to use market data in offer discussions and which arguments work with Swiss recruiters. Our guide to working in Switzerland as a foreigner covers entry conditions, permit categories and practical relocation steps. The work permit guide explains B, C, G and L permit categories and processing timelines. For cross-sector salary benchmarks, the Switzerland salary guide covers all major roles and cities.

---

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.

What is the 13th month salary in Switzerland?

The 13th month salary in Switzerland refers to an additional monthly salary paid once a year, typically in December. It is included in annual salary benchmarks as standard: when a Swiss employer quotes CHF 120,000 per year, this normally means 13 monthly payments of approximately CHF 9,231 each, not 12 payments of CHF 10,000. The 13th month is governed by the employment contract or collective agreement (GAV), not by statute. It is subject to social contributions (AHV/ALV) and income tax. Always clarify with a prospective employer whether a quoted annual figure includes or excludes the 13th month.

How do Swiss notice periods work for employment contracts?

Under Swiss law (Code of Obligations, Art. 335c), notice periods during probation (default 1 month, up to 3 months by agreement) are 7 days. After probation, statutory notice periods are: 1 month during the first year, 2 months in years 2 to 9, and 3 months from year 10 onwards. Notice must be given in writing by end of calendar month (or end of the agreed notice period month). Contractual or GAV notice periods can be longer but cannot be shorter than statutory minimums. Protected periods exist (illness, accident, pregnancy) during which termination is suspended or prohibited.