Working Hours & Holidays in Switzerland

Switzerland does not have a federally mandated standard working week like some countries, but full-time employment typically ranges from 40 to 42 hours per week, depending on the industry and CBA. Working hours are regulated to prevent exploitation and ensure rest periods.

Legal Maximum and Minimum Limits

• Maximum Weekly Hours: The Swiss Labor Act sets a maximum of 45 hours per week for workers in industrial sectors, office staff, technical employees, and sales personnel in large retail companies. For all other workers (e.g., in hospitality, agriculture, or small businesses), the limit is 50 hours per week. These limits can be exceeded in exceptional cases, such as emergencies, but must be compensated.
• Maximum Daily Hours: There is no strict daily limit, but work (including breaks) must fit within a 14-hour span from start to finish. Daily working time typically cannot exceed 9-10 hours without overtime provisions.
• Minimum Hours: There is no legal minimum for full-time work, but part-time roles are common. Contracts or CBAs often define "full-time" as at least 80-90% of the maximum weekly hours. For minors (under 18), stricter rules apply: maximum 40 hours/week and no night work.
• Rest Periods: Workers must have at least 11 consecutive hours of rest per day and one full day off per week (usually Sunday). Night work (11 PM to 6 AM) is restricted and requires health checks and compensation.

Variations Across Switzerland

Switzerland's federal system means labor laws are primarily national, but cantons (states) can influence implementation through CBAs or local ordinances. However, core working hour limits do not vary by canton— the 45/50-hour maxima apply nationwide. Differences often arise in:

• Industry-Specific CBAs: Sectors like healthcare or transport may have adjusted limits (e.g., averaged over months).
• Flexible Working: Many companies offer flexitime or home office options, but these must respect maximum limits.
• Cantonal Enforcement: Some cantons, like Zurich or Geneva, have stronger worker protections via local agreements, but no canton deviates from federal maxima.

Overtime Regulations

Overtime is work beyond the contractual hours but within legal maxima. Key rules:

• Daily overtime is limited to 2 hours.
• Annual overtime caps: 170 hours for 45-hour weeks; 140 hours for 50-hour weeks.
• Compensation: Overtime must be paid at a 25% premium or compensated with equivalent time off. "Excess hours" (beyond maxima) require a 50% premium.
• Exemptions: Executives and high-earners may waive overtime pay via agreement.

Public Holidays in Switzerland

Switzerland has a mix of federal and cantonal public holidays. Only Swiss National Day (August 1) is universally mandated as a paid day off nationwide. Other holidays vary, with cantons declaring up to 8 additional days off, often religious in nature. If a holiday falls on a weekend, it is not typically compensated with an extra day.

Switzerland's system is moderate compared to neighbors, with higher maxima but strong protections. Below is a table summarizing key aspects. Data reflects standard full-time rules; CBAs may vary.

Detailed Neighbor Comparisons

• Germany: More restrictive maxima (8 hours/day standard) but generous leave (avg 28 days). Holidays vary by state (e.g., Reformation Day in Protestant areas).
• France: Famous for the 35-hour week, with strong overtime limits. High leave entitlement and fixed national holidays, many religious (e.g., Whit Monday).
• Italy: Balanced 40-hour week with flexible overtime. Leave is similar to Switzerland; holidays include many Catholic feasts (e.g., Saints Peter and Paul).
• Austria: Similar to Germany but allows higher short-term maxima. Extended leave for long-service employees; holidays are uniformly national with religious focus.
• Liechtenstein: Closely mirrors Switzerland due to economic ties and shared currency/customs union. Slightly lower maxima in some sectors; holidays include unique local days like Berchtold's Day.