Starting work
Understanding the probation period in a Swiss job
Probation is a period for both parties to assess the employment relationship. For ordinary open-ended private employment, Swiss law provides a one-month default. Written agreement or applicable collective or standard-contract rules can change it, within the relevant limits.
Editorial review: 16 October 2026
Read the exact duration
SECO explains that probation can be excluded or extended to a maximum of three months under the permitted arrangements. Certain absences, including illness or accident, can extend the effective period, potentially beyond three calendar months. Fixed-term contracts have no automatic statutory probation, although the parties may agree one. Apprenticeships and public-sector employment need their own checks. Record the actual dates rather than relying on the word “standard”.
Understand notice and protection
The ordinary statutory notice period during probation is seven calendar days, subject to valid changes. Notice must reach the other party during probation for the probationary regime to apply, even if employment ends afterwards. Ask about any required written form. SECO notes that the statutory blocking periods for termination during illness or accident apply after probation; salary continuation is a separate question. Clarify your actual insurance and contractual arrangements.
Make the period useful
Agree early objectives, training support and feedback dates with your manager. Ask what successful completion looks like and raise obstacles while they can be addressed. Keep a factual record of progress and decisions. For a new resident, preserve financial flexibility until the working arrangement is established and clarify with the canton how a potential job ending would affect your particular residence basis.
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