Why does Switzerland attract foreign specialists and students?

Switzerland in global rankings

Switzerland consistently ranks highly in various global rankings. According to UN data, it is one of the five happiest countries on the planet and attracts many international students with its unique atmosphere. Swiss cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Basel are included in the ranking of the most comfortable cities to live in, with three spots in the top ten.

High prices and wages

Nevertheless, it is important to note that Zurich ranks third in terms of cost of living, trailing only Singapore and Paris, while Geneva is in sixth place.High pricesThis is explained by the high level of wages in the country, which will be discussed in more detail later, as well as the wide range of living opportunities available not only to Swiss citizens.

Cost of living and demand for specialists

Many are interested in the question of what the real cost of living in Switzerland is. It is also important to find out whether specialists are needed in this country. This question can be answered positively with confidence — in 2018, the number of work permits issued increased to 8,000. Each year, the number of quotas for citizens from outside the EU is growing.

Staff shortages in major cantons

In recent years, economically developed cantons such as Zurich, Geneva and Basel-Stadt have jointly asked for an increase in permits because these areas are experiencingshortage of skilled personnelespecially in the fields of research and innovation. The limits on permits were exhausted back in March 2017.

Foreigners in Switzerland

Currently, the number of foreigners living in Switzerland has exceeded 2 million, which accounts for about a quarter of the country's total population. According to surveys, around 90% of migrants are satisfied with their move and life in this Alpine country. However, it should be noted that finding a job in Switzerland can be quite challenging for people without high qualifications. Employment here is mainly for specialists with specific skills, as well as experienced managers.

Employment options

For those who do not have a narrow specialization, it is worth considering temporary work, especially in agriculture. Where to look for a job? First of all, you should visit the official portal of the Swiss public employment service, which helps people find job opportunities. On this site, you can find job vacancies as well as contact information for employers or links to offers from various companies. This resource has no restrictions on industries or regions.

Popular job search platforms

Among the popular job search platforms, we can mention:

• jobup.ch
• job scout24
• jobwinner
• monster
• topjobs
• jobs.ch
• jobsuchmaschine.ch
• simplyhired
• jobrapido
• patjobs
• neuvoo
• job agent
• ostjob.ch (job vacancies in Eastern Switzerland)
• jobsingeneva (job openings only in Geneva)
• jobsinzurich (jobs only in Zurich)

Job search for Russian speakers

If you are interested in job vacancies in Russian in Switzerland, resources like Ladoshki, which provides information for Russian expats, and Jooble will be helpful.To obtain the most comprehensive list of resourcesTo search for a job in this country, you can find the necessary information on specialized websites that review job offers and employment opportunities in Switzerland.

Job search in modern conditions

In today's world, where global career opportunities are becoming more and more accessible, it is critical to be able to find and choose the right employment options. For professionals in a wide variety of fields, there are many resources available to make the job and internship search easier.

Specialized websites for professionals

One of the recommended websites for professionals in finance, management, and research isRobert WaltersThis portal features a large number of job vacancies aimed at highly qualified specialists, including various positions in the finance and research sectors.

IT professionals can take advantage of platforms such asDarwin,TechnoJobsandDevJobsThe main requirement for applicants remains fluency in English, as employers prefer to work with professionals who speak the language. One of the main requirements for applicants is fluency in English, as employers prefer to work with professionals who speak the language.

Job search in specific companies

If you are interested in working for a specific company, you can use resources that gather information about Swiss firms and organizations. This will give you the opportunity to reach out directly to potential employers.

It is also helpful to explore the official websites of the companies you are interested in to find current job openings. Additionally, you can send your resume to the HR department of the organization you are interested in, which often provides extra chances for success.

Use of local media

Another effective way to find a job is to consult the local media, where job vacancies are often advertised. There are a variety of periodicals that publish information about jobs, including popular ones such as:

• 24 hours
• Le Temps
• Tages-Anzeiger
• NZZ Jobs

They can be a great source of information about current opportunities in the labor market.

Recruitment agencies

On the platformVzAvgAll recruitment agencies in Switzerland have been gathered, providing a complete overview of the services offered. Well-known agencies such asAdeccoandManpowerThey also provide job placement opportunities, but it's important to keep in mind that not all agencies are willing to work with candidates from countries outside the European Union.

Internship as a means of integration

An internship can be an excellent way to immerse oneself in the specifics of the local job market. It is important to note that internship programs provide insight into how companies operate in Switzerland and allow individuals to showcase their skills in a real work environment.

Often after completing an internship, companies invite young professionals to stay on a permanent basis. The duration of internships can vary from3 to 18 monthsincluding the possibility of vacation.

Conditions for internship completion

In order to qualify for an internship in Switzerland, certain criteria must be met:

• to be a student or a recent graduate under the age of 30;
• to have a specialized education;
• to know the German language;
• to have a driver's license.

Typically, the stipend for interns is approx.2100 dollars a monthBefore taxation, however, it is worth noting that the first payment does not come immediately – it is made after the probation period, which usually lasts about a month. It is important to remember that after the probation period, employment can only be terminated in case of serious violations on your part.

Resources for finding internships

There are also resources to help young people and students find internships. For example, the platformGraduatelandoffers job opportunities for students and recent graduates around the world, andIAgorafocuses on internships for professionals who are proficient in English.

PortalStudents.chis one of the largest Swiss websites that offers a variety of resources for students.

Conclusions

As a result, there are now many platforms and resources that can significantly ease the process of finding jobs and internships in Switzerland. However, it is important to pay attention to the requirements and conditions in order to maximize your chances of success in this competitive field.

Useful information about internships and employment in Switzerland

In addition to information about internships, you will find a lot of valuable information about resume preparation, employment contract terms and other issues related to investments, immigration and the real estate market in this source. It is recommended to subscribe to our Telegram channel, where we post up-to-date instructions and tips.

Language requirements for foreign workers

When it comes to the requirements for foreign workers, one of the main criteria is language proficiency. To obtain a qualified position, it is necessary to have a command of the language.in Englishat a sufficient level. At the same time, if your goal is to find employment in companies operating only in the domestic market, it is worth considering how important it is to know the other official language.

For example, in the central and eastern parts of Switzerland, including cities likeBasel,BernandZurichknowledgeGerman languagewould be a big advantage. In the Western part, including.LausanneandGenevaPreference is usually givenFrench. In the South, in cities likeBellinzonaandLuganoit is necessary to knowItalian languageIn some areas, the Rhaeto-Romance language is also common, which should be taken into account when searching for job vacancies.

Qualification and recognition of diplomas

In terms of qualifications, it is important to have a diploma that matches theSwiss educational standardsYou may need to go through the process of recognizing your diploma, especially if you plan to work in fields such as:

• medicine,
• law,
• social services,
• education.

To obtain information on how to have your diploma recognized in Switzerland and what documents you will need, it is advisable to consult specialized sources.

Employment for EU citizens and other countries

For citizens of the European Union and some other countries, traveling to Switzerland is not a problem - they can come and choose the jobs of their choice. On the other hand, for non-EU foreign nationals, a special work permit must be obtained. Do not forget that if the limit on the number of jobs for foreign employees is exhausted, your chances of successful employment are significantly reduced.

Working conditions and salary

Regarding working conditions, it is important to consider that the salary stated in your contract should not only match but also exceed the income of local workers. Immigration authorities also examine how quickly a candidate can integrate into society. This is influenced by factors such as:

• age,
• language proficiency level,
• previous work experience,
• availability of housing in the country, including rented properties.

Moreover, having documents that confirm your professional experience — such as certificates, recommendation letters, or participation in competitions — is an additional advantage when job hunting.

Special conditions for highly qualified specialists

However, if you possess high qualifications and skills that contribute to the development of the country's economy, some regulations may be relaxed.

Labor activity for relatives

Please note that if you have received a work permit in Switzerland, your close relatives can also work here under the same conditions as local residents. You may want to note that the maximum duration of the work week in the country is50 hoursWhat is important to consider when planning your career and professional path in Switzerland.

Standard working hours in Switzerland

In Switzerland, the standard working hours for employees in various sectors, such as industry, trade, and office work, is 45 hours per week. If an employee decides to increase their working hours, the employer is required to pay for overtime at double the rate. Unfortunately, part-time employment is also available in this country. For example, if you agree to work 90% of the full-time hours, you will be able to take an additional day off every two weeks.

It is also worth noting that employees are entitled to paid vacation twice a year for two weeks each time. However, if you are under 20 years old, your paid vacation duration is five weeks.

The employment process

When you have found a suitable job, successfully passed the interview, and received approval from the employer, you need to start the employment process. This is entirely carried out by the employer, who first submits an application to the cantonal employment center. After reviewing your application, the documents are forwarded to the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

However, even after you receive permission from the specified institution, the process does not end. Once all parties — you, the employer, and the employment service — receive notification from SEM, this information will be forwarded to the Swiss consulate in your country. This is necessary for processing the work visa.

Registration and getting started

When your visa is ready, you should register at your place of residence within two weeks.

Residence permits in Switzerland

In Switzerland, there are several types of residence permits designed for foreigners coming for various purposes. One such permit is the work permit, which is issued for long-term business assignments or in the case of signing a contract with a local organization. Employment is only allowed with one employer.

The category B permit is granted for one year and is automatically renewed if the holder has sufficient funds to support their living in the country. It is important to note that the holder of this permit is not allowed to leave the canton where they obtained their work permit.

Permanent residence: category C

The Category C permit is intended for those who plan to reside permanently in Switzerland. To obtain it, a minimum of ten years of residence in the country is required, which opens up the possibility of applying for citizenship. With this residence permit, the holder can:

• Freely change jobs;
• To reside in any canton;
• To start your own business.

Work for EU and EFTA citizens

Citizens of European Union and EFTA countries have the opportunity to work in Switzerland without obtaining additional permits, as long as their stay does not exceed three months. If the duration is longer, the process of obtaining permits becomes similar to what was described above.

National visa type D

To legally work in Switzerland for an extended period, a foreign citizen must obtain a national type D visa, which allows them to stay in the country for more than three months. To apply for this visa, it is necessary to gather a set of documents and contact the Swiss consulate in the country of residence. The document package must include:

• A completed questionnaire in one of the official languages of Switzerland;
• A foreign passport with at least two blank pages and two copies (pages with the photo, signature, and personal information);
• Four color photographs that meet ICAO standards;
• Copies of the latest Schengen visas (if available);
• Confirmation of financial stability for the first period of residence in the country;
• Certificate of no criminal record;
• Original employment contract;
• Medical insurance.

Motivational letter

It is also advisable to prepare a motivation letter outlining the reasons for moving to Switzerland and specifying the intended place of residence. This document may not always be mandatory if you have a job offer, but having it can be useful in certain situations.

Visa application process

The processing of a visa application can take from 6 to 12 weeks. It is important to remember that if your work visa expires, it cannot be renewed on-site, and you will need to leave the country and then go through the steps of application and document collection again.

The shadow economy in Switzerland

As for the shadow economy in this country, its level is about 7-8%, which is significantly lower than in countries like Germany, France, Portugal, Spain, or Italy. The Swiss government has achieved this result by implementing strict laws against illegal activities, increasing the number of inspections, and tightening sanctions for two categories: illegally working migrants and their employers.

Consequences of illegal work in Switzerland

If an immigrant finds themselves in Switzerland without a legal visa and is working without the appropriate permit, it can lead to serious consequences. In particular, they may face a prison sentence of up to a year and hefty fines.

The strictest measures often apply to workers in construction and agriculture. Employers involved in such schemes also face various reprisals:

• reduction of government subsidies;
• ban on participation in government contracts.

In extreme cases, they face a prison sentence of up to five years and fines that can reach significant amounts.one million dollars.

In-demand professions in Switzerland

There is a high demand for highly qualified specialists with relevant experience in Switzerland. The following list includes:

• professionals from the field of information technology;
• medical professionals from various fields, including anesthesiologists, pharmacists, and dentists;
• specialists with narrow qualifications in the medical field;
• accountants and financial experts;
• company executives;
• engineers in the field of mechanical engineering and electronics;
• teachers, especially native speakers of foreign languages.

There is also a high demand for researchers and specialists in the field of new technologies.

Demand for skilled trades

In addition to highly skilled workers, there is also a demand for low-skilled labor. The labor market requires:

• nurses
• nannies;
• couriers;
• waiters;
• bartenders;
• laborers
• harvesters.

At the same time, the salaries of highly qualified specialists can reach7000-15000 dollars...while for less qualified employees, they range within the range...1200-3000 dollarsbefore taxation.

Payroll system

In Switzerland, there is no established minimum wage, as during the referendum in 2014...76%The population expressed opposition to its introduction. Instead, employers and trade unions negotiate minimum rates for various professions. Typically, minimum wages for unskilled workers range from$2,280 to $4,360., and for specialists with higher education – from2900 to 5500 dollarsbefore taxes.

Additional payments and the labor payment system

There are also various allowances for length of service. For example:

• An unskilled worker with over four years of experience can expect a salary increase of approximately10%from the starting salary.

The country has13-month salary systemIn the last month of the year, employees receive double their regular salary.

Factors affecting salary

Many factors influence income levels in Switzerland, such as:

• specialty;
• work experience;
• age;
• level of education;
• working hours duration;
• location in various cantons.

To get a more accurate salary estimate, you can use online calculators that help calculate an approximate amount.

Average salary

InIn 2017, the average salaryin the country was about6680 dollarsIn large cities like Zurich and Geneva, salaries are generally higher, and women in Switzerland earn more.12.5%less than men in similar jobs.

Salary analysis in Switzerland

In 2018, a book titled "Lohnbuch Schweiz" was published, which provides an in-depth analysis of various professions and income levels in Switzerland. By studying this source, one can find out how average earnings are in different fields (before tax deductions per month).

For example, diplomats can expect to earn between $14,200 and $15,000; financial specialists, including bankers and insurance company employees, earn between $13,000 and $15,000; air traffic controllers earn in the range of $10,000 to $13,700; experienced medical consultants can expect an income of around $13,500. According to the book, doctors and pharmacists have earnings ranging from $9,000 to $12,000.

Credit managers in the banking sector can earn between $10,700 and $11,000, while business analysts make around $8,500 to $9,000. IT specialists earn from $8,000 to $10,000, whereas engineers can expect to earn between $6,500 and $10,000. Police officers receive between $5,800 and $7,000, and elementary school teachers earn from $7,300 to $8,000.

Construction workers earn between $7,500 and $8,500; cab drivers can expect to earn between $3,400 and $4,000; janitors earn between $3,000 and $3,500; and zoo employees earn between $3,500 and $3,700. Hairdressers and farmers can earn around $4,000, and waiters who have undergone specialized training have incomes between $4,300 and $5,000. Utility workers and domestic helpers earn between $2,500 and $3,000.

The tax system of Switzerland

It is important to note the features of the Swiss tax system. This country is known for having one of the most advanced tax systems in the world, although it is not characterized by simplicity. Taxes are composed of several levels – federal, cantonal, and municipal – so rates can vary significantly depending on the region.

For example, working in Zug is considered particularly advantageous – with an annual income of $52,000, the income tax will amount to only $1,600. At the same time, in Neuenburg or Neuchâtel, this amount can reach up to four times higher. On average, 20-25% of the salary goes to income tax and social contributions each month.

The responsibility for tax payment lies with the employer, and for foreign specialists, the tax conditions are similar to those applied to local citizens. The amount of tax also depends on various factors, such as:

• marital status;
• the presence of minor children;
• income level.

The lower the income, the smaller the amount that needs to be paid. An advantage of the local tax system is that serious penalties for non-compliance with tax requirements are minimal, legal disputes are extremely rare, and authorities often limit themselves to sending reminders by mail.

Moreover, well-known Swiss banks are not required to disclose information about taxpayers, except in cases related to economic crimes.

Moving to Switzerland for work

Thus, moving to work in Switzerland is not something unattainable. The main requirement is having a highly qualified and in-demand profession. Considering the high cost of living, it will be difficult for a person to survive on the income of a cleaner or a helper, especially when it comes to renting housing.

However, for professionals with experience and skills in relevant fields, such a move seems quite feasible.

• Feel free to look for relevant job openings.
• send in your resumes;
• attend interviews;
• Even with tax deductions, your salary will be able to provide a comfortable living standard in Switzerland.

You shouldn't limit yourself to just Switzerland when exploring different options for work and living.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that Switzerland is an ideal destination for living and working, especially for highly skilled professionals and students seeking quality education and professional growth. Its participation in rankings for happiness, quality of life, and attractiveness to foreigners is just a testament to how favorable the living conditions are in this country.

One thing to keep in mind is that despite the high cost of living,salary levels in SwitzerlandIt allows for easily covering these costs, providing excellent opportunities for achieving financial stability. The rapid increase in work permits for foreigners indicates that local employers are actively seeking new talent, and, as practice shows, citizens from non-EU countries are increasingly coming into their sights.

Resources for job searching

If you are considering moving to Switzerland, it is important to take into account not only the potential earnings but also the resources that can help you find a job. I recommend paying attention to:

• Job search platforms;
• Specialized employment agencies;
• Internships that will help immerse you in the local job market.

Immersing oneself in the local job market through internships is another effective way to gain experience and build connections, which can lead to permanent employment in the future.

Result

So, if you are ready for new challenges and want to experience what it's like to live and work in one of the most developed countries in the world, Switzerland will gladly open its doors to you. The main thing is to take action and not be afraid to pursue your ambitions in this amazing alpine country.