Switzerland offers some of the highest salaries in Europe. This page lists jobs in Switzerland from employers in Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern and Lausanne, including IT vacancies, software engineer jobs, finance, pharmaceutical and engineering roles, and English speaking jobs at international companies and organizations.
EU and EFTA citizens can work in Switzerland under free movement rules. For non EU citizens, employers must usually show that no suitable Swiss or EU candidate was found, and permits are limited by yearly quotas, so most non EU hires are skilled specialists.
Geneva hosts many UN agencies and other international organizations, so most international organization jobs in Switzerland are based there.
IT jobs Switzerland companies post are mostly in Zurich. Jobs in Switzerland for foreigners from outside the EU are limited by yearly quotas. International organization jobs Switzerland hosts are mostly in Geneva. To work in Switzerland as a non-EU citizen you need an employer who can show no local candidate fits the role.
Read each listing to check the working language before you apply for jobs in Switzerland for English speakers.
Main industries in Switzerland
Banking and insurance, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, watchmaking and precision engineering, commodities trading and international organizations are major employers.
Zurich has finance and tech, Basel has pharmaceuticals, Geneva has international organizations and trading, and Zug has many holding and crypto companies.
Permits and quotas for non EU workers
Non EU citizens can be hired mainly for highly qualified roles, and the employer must show that no suitable Swiss or EU candidate was found. Permits for non EU workers are subject to yearly quotas.
EU and EFTA citizens have easier access under the agreement on the free movement of persons.
Salary and cost of living
Swiss salaries are among the highest in Europe, but rent, health insurance and daily costs are also high. Basic health insurance is compulsory and usually paid by each resident, not by the employer.
Compare offers by take home pay after tax, rent and insurance in the canton where you will live.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non EU citizens work in Switzerland?
Yes, but permits are limited and usually go to qualified specialists after the employer shows no suitable Swiss or EU candidate was found.
Are there English speaking jobs in Switzerland?
Yes, especially in tech, finance, pharma and international organizations in Zurich, Geneva and Basel.
Which Swiss cities have the most jobs?
Zurich, Geneva and Basel have the largest job markets.
Is health insurance included in Swiss salaries?
No. Residents buy their own basic health insurance, which is compulsory, so include it when you compare offers.
Are there quotas for non EU workers in Switzerland?
Yes. Work permits for non EU citizens are limited by yearly quotas and are mainly given for highly qualified roles.
What is the difference between an L and a B permit?
An L permit is a short term residence permit, usually for up to a year, while a B permit is a longer residence permit linked to employment.