Unemployment Insurance (ALV) in Switzerland

Eligibility Requirements

To receive ALV daily allowances you must: have completed at least 12 months of AHV-liable employment within the past 2 years (contribution period), be fit for work and willing to work, not have caused the job loss yourself, and be registered with the RAV (regional employment centre). Employees who voluntarily resign are excluded from benefits for 5–60 days (suspension days, Einstelltage).

Benefit Amount

The ALV daily allowance rate is 80% of the insured salary for employees with dependants or disability; 70% for all others. Calculation basis: average salary over the prior 6 months (or 12 months for variable incomes), capped at CHF 148,200/year (2026). Allowances are taxable and reported on the annual wage certificate.

Duration of Benefits

Up to 400 daily allowances within a 2-year period for employees under 55 with sufficient contribution time. Employees over 55 are entitled to up to 520 daily allowances. Those with fewer than 12 months of contributions are entitled to 90–200 days. Short-time work (KAE) does not count against the benefit framework period.

Registering with the RAV

Register at the RAV on the first working day after the start of unemployment. Registration can be done online via the AVIG Online portal. Documents required: termination notice or end of contract, AHV card, wage certificates for the past 12 months, proof of domicile. A RAV counsellor is assigned to assist with job searching.

Context on the Swiss job market helps frame any career decision in Switzerland. Our gross-to-net salary guide shows what Swiss gross salaries look like after AVS, LPP and tax deductions. The salary negotiation guide covers how to use market data in offer discussions and which arguments work with Swiss recruiters. Our guide to working in Switzerland as a foreigner covers entry conditions, permit categories and practical relocation steps. The work permit guide explains B, C, G and L permit categories and processing timelines. For cross-sector salary benchmarks, the Switzerland salary guide covers all major roles and cities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I receive unemployment benefits in Switzerland?

Up to 400 daily allowances within 2 years (for employees under 55 with sufficient contribution time). Over-55 employees: up to 520 days.

How much is the unemployment allowance in Switzerland?

80% of the insured salary (with dependants) or 70% (without). Cap: CHF 148,200/year gross salary basis.

Do I lose benefits if I resign voluntarily?

Not entirely. You receive suspension days (5–60 days without benefits). The exact number depends on the reason for resignation and the degree of fault.

Do my ALV contribution years still count if I resigned voluntarily?

Yes. The suspension (Einstelltage) delays the start of benefits but does not erase contribution entitlement. After the suspension period, you receive full benefits based on your contribution years. The suspension is 5–60 days depending on fault: resigning without compelling reason results in longer suspension; compelling reasons (workplace bullying documented, serious health risk, relocation with partner) result in reduced or no suspension. The contribution period (minimum 12 months of AHV-liable employment in the last 2 years) is verified independently of the resignation reason.

What is the 13th month salary in Switzerland?

The 13th month salary in Switzerland refers to an additional monthly salary paid once a year, typically in December. It is included in annual salary benchmarks as standard: when a Swiss employer quotes CHF 120,000 per year, this normally means 13 monthly payments of approximately CHF 9,231 each, not 12 payments of CHF 10,000. The 13th month is governed by the employment contract or collective agreement (GAV), not by statute. It is subject to social contributions (AHV/ALV) and income tax. Always clarify with a prospective employer whether a quoted annual figure includes or excludes the 13th month.