Work permits and temp work in Switzerland: the guide

To work as a temp in Switzerland you must be authorised to work in the country. The rules mainly depend on your nationality.

EU/EFTA nationals

Thanks to free movement, access is straightforward:

• L permit (short-term): contract under one year — common in temp work
• B permit (residence): contract of one year or more, renewable
• G permit (cross-border): you live in a neighbouring country and return home at least weekly

The staffing agency helps with the paperwork, but the notification or permit must be in place before you start.

Cross-border workers

Tens of thousands of cross-border workers temp in Geneva, Vaud, Basel and Ticino:

• The G permit is requested by the employer (the agency)
• Weekly return home at minimum
• Tax at source in most cantons

Non-EU/EFTA nationals

Access is far more restrictive: annual quotas, priority for resident workers, high qualification requirements. If you already hold a valid B or C permit, you can temp normally.

What the agency will check

• ID and work permit (or entitlement to one)
• Address and payment details
• CV, diplomas, work certificates

Working without authorisation exposes both employer and worker to sanctions. General information — check the SEM (State Secretariat for Migration) or your cantonal authority.