Work and faith

Under the Labour Act, which covers most private employers, you may take time off on religious holidays your canton does not recognise. Tell your employer at least three days in advance; they may ask you to make up the time.2

1 August, the national day, is the only federal public holiday. Each canton can add up to eight more, which is why holidays differ across Switzerland.12

Breaks are set by law: at least 15 minutes on a working day of more than five and a half hours, 30 minutes for more than seven hours and one hour for more than nine.2

Work on Sundays is generally not allowed; exceptions apply in sectors such as health care, hospitality and transport.2

Relations between church and state are a matter for each canton. In most cantons, members of a church the canton recognises, always including the Reformed and the Roman Catholic churches, pay church tax with their regular taxes.1

Formally leaving a church, in writing, ends church tax; when it takes effect depends on the canton.

Your employer must take the measures needed to protect your health at work.2

If stress or exhaustion builds up, see your GP: since July 2022, psychological psychotherapy prescribed by a doctor is covered by basic insurance.4

Our Heal programme offers spaces for reflection and recovery.