Background

Swiss Employment Market

The current employment picture in Switzerland is a positive one, with extremely low unemployment rates and high salaries. This is somewhat offset by the relatively high cost of living and long working hours, but overall, the Swiss come out on top in terms of income and job satisfaction. For those who are EU/EFTA citizens, the Swiss job market is completely open, however, if you are not from one of these countries, finding employment will be nigh unto impossible (only 4,000 non-EU work permits granted annually) unless you are very highly skilled in the areas of greatest demand, such as information technology or scientific research.

The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs is responsible for employment issues.