Switzerland Strengthens Labor Laws: New Rules on References, Unemployment Benefits, and Dismissals
Switzerland's labor laws have been updated to further protect employees and residents. Key changes include new rules on references, unemployment benefits for foreign residents, and enhanced dismissal protections.
Employers in Switzerland are now legally bound to provide a truthful, non-acrimonious reference letter to former employees upon request. This aims to prevent employers from giving unfair or misleading assessments.
Foreign residents with B or C permits can now access unemployment benefits if they have worked in Switzerland for at least 12 months in the last two years and lived there full-time. Previously, only those with permanent residence permits were eligible.
Dismissals must follow due process, adhering to employment contracts or collective labor agreements. Employees cannot be fired during pregnancy or for 16 weeks post-partum. They also have job protection during illness or accident, with grace periods varying based on employment duration.
Unemployed individuals must actively seek new jobs and provide monthly evidence of their efforts to the local unemployment office. They are entitled to benefits if they have been legally working and contributing to the social insurance scheme.
These changes strengthen employee rights in Switzerland. They ensure fair assessments upon job separation, expand unemployment benefits to more foreign residents, and reinforce dismissal protections. Employers must respect these rules, and employees should be aware of their rights.
