Swiss household employment
Arbeitsbewilligung: the right to work
Also written: Arbeitsbewilligung · Autorisation de travail · Permesso di lavoro
Who may work in a Swiss household?
The right to work depends on nationality and permit. Swiss nationals and holders of a settlement permit (C) may work without restriction. EU and EFTA nationals have wide access under the free movement agreement. Nationals of other states need a permit tied to a specific job, which is granted restrictively.
What it means if you employ someone at home
You must check that the person may lawfully work before they start, and keep the evidence. Employing someone without the right to work exposes the household to penalties, independently of the social insurance question.
You are the employer. With Helpore Admin, Helpore prepares a contract if you want one and, under your signed power of attorney, files the declarations and produces the payslip in your name; with Admin Light, Helpore prepares the maths and the documents and you file and pay. Both are optional. You stay the employer in every case and can also do all of this yourself.
Common questions
What do the permit letters mean?
B is a residence permit, C a settlement permit, L a short stay permit and G a cross border permit. Each carries its own conditions.
Is a permit enough on its own?
It has to allow employment. Some permits are issued for study or family reasons and restrict or exclude work.