Apprenticeship contract from A to Z

The apprenticeship contract specifies the exact job title and duration of the training. These must match the information in the corresponding Education Ordinance.

The probationary period is used by the contracting parties to review the choice that has been made. The probationary period lasts between one and three months and may be extended to a maximum of six months.

Working hours are generally the same as those of other employees employed in the company. Special regulations also apply to young people up to and including the age of 18:

• Daily working hours may not exceed nine hours.
• The working time with all breaks must be within twelve hours.
• Young people may not work during the night or on public holidays.

Exceptions in special professions such as the hospitality industry are governed by the WBF Ordinance on the exceptions to the ban on night and Sunday work during vocational education and training .

The amount of the salary for apprentices is not enshrined in law throughout Switzerland and is determined by the contracting parties. Most of the host companies follow the recommendations made by professional organisations. Cantonal minimum wage and collective employment agreements must also be observed. In the case of accommodation and meals in the host company, part of the salary counts as payment in kind.

Young people up to and including the age of 20 are entitled to five weeks of paid holiday, whereby two consecutive weeks must be taken at least once a year. One additional week can be taken per year of the apprenticeship for youth work in a supervisory, advisory or managerial capacity (paid or unpaid youth leave).