Maternity Leave in Switzerland: Rights and Benefits

Statutory Entitlement

Every employed mother is entitled to 14 weeks (98 days) of maternity leave after the birth (APG earnings replacement). Requirement: at least 5 months of AHV-liable employment in the 9 months before birth. The mother may return to work no earlier than 8 weeks (56 days) after birth; she may choose to stay off for up to 16 weeks.

Compensation Amount

APG compensation equals 80% of the average pre-birth earnings, capped at CHF 220/day (2026) = max CHF 6,600/month. For a salary of CHF 10,000/month: compensation = CHF 6,600 (due to the cap). Many employers and GAVs supplement APG to 100% for all or part of the leave.

Dismissal Protection and Return to Work

Absolute dismissal protection applies during pregnancy and for 16 weeks after birth (protection period, Art. 336c OR). Dismissal during this period is void. After the protection period and return to work, the mother is entitled to the same position or an equivalent one.

Paternity Leave and Parental Leave

Since 1 January 2021, fathers are entitled to 2 weeks (10 working days) of paid paternity leave, also funded through APG (80%, max CHF 220/day). It must be taken within 6 months of birth. Beyond this, there is no statutory parental leave in Switzerland; many employers voluntarily offer extended parental leave.

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is maternity leave in Switzerland?

14 weeks (98 days) from birth. Many employers offer 16–20 weeks voluntarily. Mothers may return no earlier than 8 weeks after birth.

How much do I earn during maternity leave?

80% of salary through APG, capped at CHF 220/day (2026). Many employers supplement to 100%.

Am I entitled to my job back after maternity leave?

Generally yes. You are entitled to the same or an equivalent position. During the protection period (pregnancy + 16 weeks after birth), dismissal is void.

What rights do I have if I am dismissed during or just after maternity leave?

Dismissal served during the 16-week post-birth protection period is void by law (CO Art. 336c), it has no legal effect and the employment relationship continues. After the protection period, dismissal is possible but if it is motivated by pregnancy or maternity, it qualifies as abusive dismissal under the Gender Equality Act (GlG Art. 3 and 10). The employer can be ordered to pay up to 6 months' salary as compensation. The burden of proof shifts: if dismissal occurs shortly after return from maternity leave, the employer must demonstrate that the reason was unrelated to the maternity. Document everything and consult a trade union or lawyer if facing dismissal within 12 months of return.

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.