A Comprehensive Guide for Swiss Freelancers
Understanding Swiss Resignation Letters
Deciding to leave a job is never easy, especially in Switzerland, where employment laws are specific and detailed. For Swiss freelancers and employees alike, knowing how to craft a proper resignation letter—known as a "lettre de congé"—is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about writing a Swiss resignation letter, ensuring you leave your current position professionally and legally.
In Switzerland, employment relationships are governed by the Swiss Code of Obligations. Understanding the legal aspects of resigning can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a smooth transition.
Notice periods are crucial. They vary depending on your contract and length of service:
Always check your employment contract or any applicable collective bargaining agreements (CCT/CLA) for specific terms.
While oral resignations are legally valid, a written resignation is highly recommended for clarity and record-keeping. This ensures both parties have a documented agreement on the termination terms.
Your resignation letter must reach your employer to be effective. Consider sending it via registered mail or delivering it in person with a receipt acknowledgment. This provides proof of delivery and helps avoid disputes.
Writing a resignation letter is more than a formality; it's a professional courtesy that reflects your respect for the employer and the organization.
Full name, address, and contact information.
Company's name and address, and the recipient's name (usually your manager or HR).
The date you're writing the letter.
Clearly state the purpose (e.g., "Resignation Letter").
Clearly express your intention to resign.
Mention adherence to your contractual notice period and specify your last working day.
A polite thank you for the opportunities provided.
Your handwritten signature above your typed name.
You’re not legally required to explain why you’re resigning — your letter can simply state your intention to leave. 🇨🇭
That said, if you have a good relationship with your employer, offering a brief and positive explanation can be a nice touch.
If you’re moving on to focus on your freelance business — for example, expanding your projects with Magic Heidi — it’s perfectly fine to mention it as part of your professional growth.
“I’ve decided to focus on developing my freelance projects and exploring new opportunities.”
Keep your tone optimistic and forward-looking, without going into too much detail. This shows respect and maturity.
If your departure involves sensitive issues or personal reasons, you can keep it general.
A simple “I’ve decided to pursue a new professional direction” works well and keeps the conversation focused on the future.
✨ Pro tip: Your goal is to leave on good terms and maintain your professional reputation — especially important in Switzerland’s close-knit business circles.
Knowing when to resign is almost as important as how you do it. The right timing ensures compliance with legal obligations and helps maintain smooth relations with your employer or clients.
In Switzerland, notice periods are typically structured to end at the end of a month.
For example:
If you submit your resignation on June 15 with a one-month notice period, your final working day would be July 31.
Always double-check your employment contract — or client agreement if you’re a freelancer — since terms may vary.
Your notice period is your professional “farewell phase.” Here’s what to keep in mind:
Leaving gracefully is a hallmark of professionalism. The way you handle your departure can shape your reputation long after you’ve moved on.
Before sending your official letter, schedule a face-to-face (or video) meeting with your manager or client. It shows respect and allows you to discuss the transition openly — especially if you’re handling key responsibilities or projects.
Offer to help train your replacement, document ongoing tasks, or prepare a short handover guide. This simple act goes a long way in maintaining goodwill — and might even earn you a glowing reference.
Even after your resignation, you’re legally obliged to keep confidential company or client information private. Honoring this responsibility reflects integrity and professionalism.
For freelancers, resignations often look a little different — especially when working with several clients at once.
Always review your contracts carefully. Most include termination clauses specifying notice periods or conditions. Provide written notice and complete any remaining obligations before ending the collaboration.
If you’re juggling several freelance projects, consider how ending one might affect your workload or income. For strategies on balancing your projects, check out our guide on Managing Multiple Businesses as a Swiss Freelancer.
Before making changes to your business setup, make sure your financial records are up to date. Tools like Magic Heidi can simplify invoicing and accounting, helping you transition smoothly without paperwork headaches.
Swiss labor law offers certain protections — but not all of them apply when you decide to resign.
After the probation period, employers cannot terminate employees during certain protected periods (like illness, accident, pregnancy, or military service).
However, if you resign, these protections don’t apply — so plan your timing accordingly.
Be mindful of any non-compete clauses in your contract that might limit future opportunities. Review our guide on Legal Essentials for Swiss Freelancers for tips on how to navigate these clauses.
Resigning marks the end of one chapter — and the exciting start of another. Here’s how to close things properly and set yourself up for success.
In Switzerland, it’s customary to receive a work certificate (Arbeitszeugnis / certificat de travail) when you leave. This document is vital for future opportunities, so ensure it accurately reflects your contributions.
If you don’t have a new position or project lined up, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits.
Register promptly with your local unemployment office to avoid delays. For more details, check our article on Unemployment Benefits for Freelancers in Switzerland.
Finally, don’t forget your taxes. Resigning and moving into freelance work can affect your income structure and VAT obligations.
Our VAT for Swiss Freelancers guide explains how to manage these changes smoothly and stay compliant.
Writing a Swiss resignation letter is a process that requires attention to legal requirements and professional etiquette. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a respectful and smooth departure from your current role. Whether you're moving on to new employment or expanding your freelance endeavors with Magic Heidi, leaving on good terms sets a positive tone for your future.
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