Introduction
Under Swiss law (the Code of Obligations), leave is a fundamental right which
employers must grant to every employee.
Length of leave
The minimum annual period set by law is:
- four weeks for employees and apprentices over the age of 20;
- five weeks for employees and apprentices up to and including the age of 20.
This minimum period may be extended by contractual agreements. For instance,
collective labour contracts (GAV) often provide for longer leave, especially for
employees with a specified length of service and/or who have reached a specified
age. On the other hand, leave may be reduced in length if a person has had a
long period off work owing to prolonged illness, or has taken a long unpaid
holiday, or for other reasons.
Other provisions
As a general rule, leave must be granted for the current year of service; at
least two weeks must be taken as a continuous period. Employees receive full pay
during leave. For the entire period of employment, leave cannot be replaced by
financial compensation or other benefits.
Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2006
Reproduction is authorised.
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