Notice Periods in Switzerland: Overview and Calculation
Notice periods in Swiss employment law are governed by Art. 335c OR/CO and depend on years of service: 1 month in the first year, 2 months from year 2–9, and 3 months from year 10 onward. Shorter periods require a GAV; longer periods may be agreed contractually.
Statutory Notice Periods
Art. 335c OR/CO sets minimum notice periods: 1 month in the 1st year of service, 2 months from 2nd to 9th year of service, 3 months from the 10th year of service onward. These apply equally to employer and employee. The contract may provide longer periods; shorter periods require a GAV provision.
Commencement Date and Calculation
The notice period typically commences at month-end following the month in which notice is given. Notice given on 15 March starts on 31 March; with a 2-month period, it ends on 31 May. Some contracts specify mid-month start dates. Written notice by registered letter (eingeschriebener Brief) is the safest method.
Extensions and Exceptions
Contractually agreed longer periods are binding on both parties. A GAV can shorten the statutory minimums – for example, 2 weeks in the first month for seasonal roles. During probation, a special 7-day period applies.
Immediate Dismissal
Immediate dismissal for serious cause (Art. 337 OR) is always possible but requires a sufficiently serious ground. Examples: theft, violence, gross breach of trust. Without valid grounds, immediate dismissal may expose the dismissing party to damages. In dispute, the labour court decides.
Notice period table by years of service
| Years of service | Statutory notice (CO Art. 335c) | Notice end date (notice given 15 March) |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | 1 month | 30 April |
| 2–9 years | 2 months | 31 May |
| 10 years or more | 3 months | 30 June |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the notice period in Switzerland?
1 month in the first year of service, 2 months from years 2–9, and 3 months from year 10 onward. The contract or GAV may provide longer periods.
When does the notice period start?
Generally at month-end following the month in which notice was given. Notice on 15 March runs from 31 March.
Can I agree to a shorter notice period in my contract?
Shorter-than-statutory periods can only be agreed via a GAV, not through the individual contract alone.
Swiss Code of Obligations (CO Art. 335c, 337) · SECO · admin.ch