Night and Sunday Work in Switzerland

The Prohibition and Permit System

The Labour Act (ArG Art. 16–19) prohibits night work (11 pm – 6 am) and Sunday work. Exceptions require a SECO permit (for structural, permanent need) or a cantonal permit (temporary). Sectors with standing permits: hospitals, hotels, bakeries, petrol stations, media printing. The permit is granted when the work is technically or economically necessary and cannot be done during normal hours. Emergency work can be done without permit up to 4 days (immediate reporting to authority required).

Pay Supplements and Time Compensation

For employees who work nights: 25% pay supplement or 10% compensatory time for regular night work (under ArG), or 25% supplement for occasional night work (up to 25 nights/year). Sunday work: 25% supplement or equivalent time off. These rights cannot be waived by employment contract, they are mandatory under the ArG. GAV provisions often grant higher supplements in certain sectors (e.g. hospitality).

Health Protection and Medical Examinations

The ArG requires employers to take special health protection measures for night workers: free medical examination every 2 years (from 50 nights/year), right to transfer to day work if health requires it, assessment of health risks. Pregnant and breastfeeding employees are completely exempt from night and Sunday work, the employer must provide a day work alternative or pay 80% of salary if no equivalent day role is available.

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 much extra do I earn for night shifts in Switzerland?

At least 25% pay supplement (for occasional night work) or 10% compensatory time (for regular night work with permit). GAV in your sector may provide more. These rights cannot be waived.

Can any employer assign night work?

Only with a SECO permit or cantonal exemption. Certain sectors have standing permits. Without a permit, night work is illegal, and employees may refuse it.

Do I have a right to a medical check-up if I work nights?

Yes, once you work more than 50 nights per year, you are entitled to a free medical examination every 2 years, at the employer's expense. You also have the right to request transfer to day work if night work harms your health.

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.