Quitting a Job in Switzerland: A Guide for Cross-Border Workers

As a cross-border worker in Switzerland, you may change jobs or end an employment relationship. Whether you plan to resign, do so during probation, or agree on a mutual termination, here is what you need to know to proceed correctly and avoid unpleasant surprises.

1. Voluntary resignation: your rights and obligations

Resigning ends the contract on your initiative. No reason is required, but certain rules apply.

• Freedom to resign: a reason is not required. A verbal resignation is valid, but a written letter (hand-delivered with acknowledgement or by registered mail) is strongly recommended (CO, Art. 335; ch.ch).
• Notice periods: after probation the statutory notice is 1 month in the 1st year, 2 months in years 2–9 and 3 months from the 10th year, each to the end of a month (unless agreed otherwise) (CO, Art. 335c).
• Fixed-term contracts: they end on the agreed date; early termination is generally not possible, except by mutual agreement or for just cause (CO, Art. 334; ch.ch).

⚠️ Avoid walking out without notice: leaving abruptly may trigger compensation of up to a quarter of one month’s salary in favour of the employer (CO, Art. 337d; SECO — Termination).

2. Mutual termination (separation agreement)

A mutual termination agreement ends the relationship by consent. This written agreement can allow you to leave before the ordinary notice period ends.

• It is generally possible at any time — for both open-ended and fixed-term contracts (ch.ch).
• It must be in writing and specify the end date and conditions (unused holiday, prorated 13th salary, etc.).
• Pros: flexibility (e.g., earlier exit than regular notice).
• Cons: for unemployment insurance, voluntary/mutual exits are often considered self-inflicted unemployment and can lead to waiting days (SECO — Unemployment insurance).

3. During probation

The probation period is the start of the employment relationship when both sides assess the fit. Exits are simpler and faster here.

• Default length: 1 month (up to 3 months if agreed in writing) (CO, Art. 335b).
• Shorter notice: 7 calendar days for both parties (CO, Art. 335b para. 1; SECO).
• A verbal resignation is possible; a written confirmation is recommended.
• No justification is required.

4. Practical tips for a smooth exit

• Check your contract for notice rules and any special clauses (non-compete, training, etc.).
• Plan ahead: coordinate your new start date to avoid overlaps.
• Talk to your employer: a mutual agreement can shorten the notice (SECO).
• Check the final payslip: unused holiday (to be taken during notice or paid out), overtime, expenses (SECO — Holidays).
• Request a work certificate: you are entitled to a reference/interim reference (CO, Art. 330a).
• Plan your bridge period: voluntary resignations can lead to waiting days in your country of residence.

5. If your employer is terminating you

Additional protections apply (protection periods during illness, pregnancy/maternity, unfair dismissal, etc.). Read more here: Getting fired in Switzerland: what are your rights?

✅ Summary

• Resignation, probation or mutual termination: several ways to end an employment relationship.
• Respect the notice period — or agree in writing on something different.
• Before you leave, check your holiday entitlement, work certificate and unemployment insurance implications.

👉 Follow these steps to leave professionally and prepare your next career move.

Note: This guide is for orientation and may change. For rules updated to your situation, consult official sources: Code of Obligations (Fedlex), SECO — Unemployment insurance, ch.ch. For a personalised assessment, seek advice from a labour law professional.