Switzerland’s New Labor Requirements Aimed at Reducing Unemployment

The Switzerland Federal Council announced it will implement a labor market test for employers wishing to hire foreign nationals in occupations with high unemployment rates. Starting July 1, 2018, Swiss employers seeking to hire foreign nationals in occupations with at least an 8% unemployment rate must first advertise the positions online for a period of five days. Starting January 1, 2020, the requirement will be expanded to include occupations with at least a 5% unemployment rate. Employers and prospective employees should be prepared for longer hiring timelines in connection with the 5 day advertising period.