Employing a Domestic Worker in Switzerland: Key Legal Considerations

Hiring a domestic worker for a few hours a week may seem straightforward at first glance. However, it makes you an employer subject to specific legal obligations. In Switzerland, even for very part-time employment, certain rules must be followed. Here are the main legal aspects to consider.

1. Registration and Social Insurance (AHV/IV/EO/ALV)

Every employer must register their domestic worker with the AHV compensation office. Social security contributions (AHV, IV, EO, ALV) must be paid, even for low incomes. The simplified procedure provided by the AHV is available, especially for small jobs.​

2. Accident Insurance

According to the Swiss Federal Accident Insurance Act (UVG), you are required to insure your domestic worker against occupational accidents. If they work more than 8 hours per week, you must also insure them against non-occupational accidents.

3. Employment Contract

A written employment contract is not mandatory in Switzerland. However, it is strongly recommended to draft one. It should include:​

• Workload (hours/week)

• Agreed salary (including any holiday pay)

• Notice period

• Terms of salary payment in case of illness​

4. Holidays and Public Holidays

The domestic worker is entitled to at least four weeks of holiday per year (five weeks until the age of 20), proportional to their employment rate. For irregular assignments, an hourly wage including a holiday supplement should be agreed upon. A common holiday supplement is 8.33%. For regular assignments, a monthly salary is recommended. Public holidays are also to be considered according to the practices of the canton.

5. Sick Leave Compensation: Insurance or Not?

Whether a daily sickness benefit insurance is necessary depends on the canton and the applicable standard employment contract (CTT). For instance, in the canton of St. Gallen, this insurance is mandatory unless an individual contract is signed stating that the Swiss Code of Obligations applies. In other cantons, this insurance is not mandatory but may be recommended to protect both parties. Without insurance, the obligation to continue paying the salary is defined by law: in case of illness, you must pay the salary for three weeks in the first year

6. Minimum Wage

Some cantons such as Neuchâtel, Geneva, or Ticino have introduced a cantonal minimum wage. It is essential to verify that the hourly wage you offer complies with the local regulations in your canton.