Further Training and Continuing Education in Switzerland

No General Right to Educational Leave

There is no federal statutory right to educational leave in Switzerland. The Further Education Act (WeBiG) provides a framework but does not create enforceable claims against employers. Exceptions: Some cantons have cantonal educational leave laws (5–10 days/year in Jura, Neuchâtel, Geneva). Some GAV mandate training time (e.g. LMV construction, GAV healthcare). Employer can voluntarily offer paid educational leave as part of the employment contract. In the absence of a specific rule, employees must use annual holiday or unpaid leave for training.

Repayment Clauses

When an employer funds expensive training, repayment clauses are common and legally valid in Switzerland if: written, proportionate (binding duration must be proportional to training costs and duration), and covering a specific training with a market value. Example: CHF 10,000 training → binding for 2 years. If the employer dismisses without just cause, or if conditions deteriorate unreasonably, the repayment clause typically lapses. Best practice: always get the repayment conditions in writing and negotiate maximum binding duration before starting.

Federal Subsidies for Professional Qualifications

Since 2018, the Swiss federal government subsidises federal professional exams (Berufsprüfung, BP) and advanced federal exams (Höhere Fachprüfung, HFP): participants receive 50% of the preparatory course fees reimbursed (direct payment to the individual, non-taxable). This applies to: most certified Swiss vocational qualifications, typically CHF 5,000–20,000 in subsidy depending on the course. Applications are made directly to the SBFI. University degrees and non-certified courses are not covered by this subsidy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does my employer have to fund my training in Switzerland?

Only if the employment contract, GAV or cantonal law requires it. Employer-ordered training must always be employer-funded. Voluntary or employee-initiated training: employer can contribute voluntarily and often does as part of talent retention.

How long can a repayment clause bind me?

Courts consider 2–3 years proportionate for substantial training. Less expensive training (under CHF 3,000) should have shorter binding periods. A binding clause after the employer terminates without just cause is generally considered lapsed.

What federal subsidy can I get for a federal professional exam?

50% of verified preparatory course costs, paid directly to you. You apply to the SBFI after completing the exam (pass or fail). Maximum amounts vary by exam. No repayment required, it is a direct subsidy.