Switzerland Employment Guide

Maternity Leave in Switzerland: A Comprehensive Guide

Swiss employment law provides clear provisions for maternity protection. Employees who have worked continuously for 270 days during pregnancy are entitled to 14 weeks of paid maternity leave (extended to 16 weeks in Geneva). A minimum of 8 weeks must be taken following childbirth. During this period, employees receive 80% of their salary, capped at 196 CHF per day, with payments administered through social security.

Many companies choose to enhance these statutory benefits. For instance, SailGlobal EOR employees receive full salary coverage throughout their maternity leave, demonstrating a commitment to employee wellbeing beyond legal requirements.

Additional Leave Options

Employees may request up to 14 days of unpaid leave following their paid maternity period, providing flexibility for individual circumstances. This additional time can be crucial for new mothers during the transition back to work.

Paternity Leave Regulations

Fathers who have completed 270 days of continuous service qualify for 10 working days of paid paternity leave. This leave must be utilized within six months of the child's birth, with compensation set at 80% of salary (capped at 196 CHF daily) through social security.

Extension of paternity leave is possible at the employer's discretion. Progressive organizations like SailGlobal provide full salary coverage during paternity leave, recognizing the importance of father-child bonding.

Parental Leave Considerations

Switzerland currently lacks federal legislation mandating parental leave beyond maternity and paternity provisions. However, many multinational companies operating in Switzerland offer supplementary parental leave policies to remain competitive in attracting global talent.

Sick Leave Entitlements

Swiss employees are protected by robust sick leave regulations, allowing up to 730 days of paid sick leave within a 900-day period. Implementation varies based on employer insurance coverage.

Employers with Daily Indemnity Insurance

Days 0-30: 100% salary coverage by employer
Days 31-730: 100% salary coverage (80% insurer, 20% employer)

Employers Without Insurance Coverage

Payment structure follows a graduated system based on tenure:
• Year 1: 3 weeks
• Year 2: 1 month
• Years 3-4: 2 months
• Years 5-9: 3 months
• 10+ years: 4 months

Companies utilizing SailGlobal's EOR services benefit from streamlined administration of these complex regulations, ensuring compliance while maximizing employee support.