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Is it possible to secure time off work for relocating residences within Switzerland?

If your relocation occurs within a weekly timespan, you might question whether your Swiss employer will grant you a leave from work. Here's the pertinent information.

Inquiring about taking time off work for a house move in Switzerland?
Inquiring about taking time off work for a house move in Switzerland?

Is it possible to secure time off work for relocating residences within Switzerland?

Moving home can be a stressful time, but in Switzerland, there are some rights and obligations that employees should be aware of.

Firstly, it's important to note that there is no legal entitlement to special leave for a private move in Switzerland. However, it is customary to grant one day as special leave depending on the collective labor agreement (CLA). For work-related moves, one day off can also be granted.

The duration of a day off for moving home is determined by the CLA, employment contract, or company policy. In general situations, it can vary from one day for local moves to two days for moves farther away.

Employees in Switzerland are entitled to a day off for moving home, and these entitlements are based on 'special circumstances' as outlined in the Swiss Code of Obligations. The CLA and the Swiss Code of Obligations specify the reasons for which an employee can get a day off work, which include situations such as a doctor's appointment, court appearance, public duties, marriage, birth of a child, death of a close relative, and care of a close relative.

It is essential to notify the company of a move well ahead of time and agree on the day in advance. The employer has the right to refuse the specific date requested for a day off for moving, but this refusal must be justified by important work requirements or other imperative reasons.

Absences from work in Switzerland are typically covered by labour law, CLA, or individual work contracts. It's important to note that these agreements provide for situations that allow employees to take time off without losing pay or needing to compensate for missed hours.

For more relevant information about moving in Switzerland, you can refer to the article 'What you need to do if you move home in Switzerland.'

In conclusion, while there is no legal entitlement to special leave for a private move in Switzerland, it is customary to grant one day as special leave depending on the CLA. Employees are entitled to a day off for moving home under special circumstances, and absences from work are covered by labour law, CLA, or individual work contracts. It's important to notify the company well in advance and agree on the day off in advance.

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