Parental Leave in Switzerland

Maternity Leave: 14 Weeks at 80%

All employed women in Switzerland are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave (98 days), starting from the day of birth. Payment comes through the Erwerbsersatzordnung (EO) income replacement scheme: 80% of pre-birth average income, capped at CHF 220/day (which corresponds to the maximum insured income). To qualify: employed at time of birth, 5 months contributions to AHV, residence or employment in Switzerland. Maternity leave cannot be taken before the birth. Returning before 14 weeks is legally possible but EO payments stop.

Paternity Leave: 2 Weeks Since 2021

Since January 2021, fathers (and second partners in same-sex couples) are entitled to 2 weeks of paternity leave (14 calendar days or 10 working days), also paid at 80% via EO (same cap: CHF 220/day). The leave must be taken within 6 months of the child's birth and can be taken as a block or day by day. Many cantons (Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel) and large employers offer additional days through cantonal law or GAV, some up to 4 weeks.

Adoption Leave and GAV Extensions

Since 2023, adoption leave of 2 weeks (also paid at 80% via EO) applies for children under 4 years. Many GAV and employer policies go beyond legal minimums: the Landes-GAV Gastgewerbe (L-GAV) provides extended leave; many large employers in pharma and finance offer 3–6 months leave for both parents. Employees should check their GAV and employer policy, company-paid leave is often significantly more generous than the legal floor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is maternity leave paid in Switzerland?

Through the federal EO income replacement scheme: 80% of your average pre-birth income, capped at CHF 220 per day (2026). The employer deducts the EO contribution from your salary and the EO fund reimburses the employer. You continue to receive your (reduced) salary from your employer.

Can I take maternity leave before the birth?

No. Swiss maternity leave starts on the day of birth. However, employees are protected from dismissal during pregnancy and up to 16 weeks after birth (protection period). If birth is premature, the full 14 weeks still apply.

Does paternity leave apply to same-sex couples?

Yes. Since 2022, registered same-sex partners have the same rights as spouses. The second partner in a same-sex couple is entitled to 2 weeks paternity leave on the same terms.