Maternity and Paternity Leave in Switzerland: Duration, Compensation and Rules

Maternity and paternity leave are fundamental rights in Switzerland. However, they come with strict rules that both employers and employees must be aware of. This guide explains the duration, compensation, and procedures in detail.

Duration of Maternity Leave

In Switzerland, maternity leave lasts 14 weeks (98 days) starting from the day of birth. This applies equally to full-time and part-time employees.

• Returning to work early means forfeiting any remaining benefits.
• Benefits can be claimed up to 5 years after birth.
• For births after July 1, 2021: if the newborn requires hospitalization of more than 14 days immediately after birth, the paid leave period is extended by the same number of days, up to a maximum of 56 days.

Compensation During Maternity Leave

Maternity benefits amount to 80% of salary, capped at CHF 196 per day.

Eligibility requires:

• At least 9 months of AHV/AVS contributions before the birth
• At least 5 months of employment during pregnancy (adjusted in case of premature birth)

Depending on cantonal regulations, CBAs, or company policies, more generous benefits may apply.

How to Apply for Benefits

There are three ways to claim maternity benefits:

• Through the employer: If the employer continues to pay the salary, the compensation office reimburses the employer directly.

• Directly from the AHV/AVS compensation office: For self-employed workers, unemployed persons, or when the employer cannot advance payments.

• International payments: Benefits can still be received even after moving abroad following the birth.

Paternity Leave

Since January 2021, fathers are entitled to 2 weeks of paid paternity leave, to be taken within 6 months of the child’s birth.

• Condition: the employee must be or become the legal father within 6 months.
• Leave can be taken continuously or spread out.
• Unlike maternity leave, there is no extension in case of hospitalization of the child.

This benefit is financed through the Swiss income compensation scheme (EO). Since 2021, the contribution to family allowances has increased from 0.45% to 0.5%.

Possible Future Developments

Swiss Parliament is debating a proposal for a shared parental leave of 38 weeks, which could be divided flexibly between both parents. This would represent a significant step toward equality in the workplace.

How quitt Business Helps

Managing maternity and paternity leave requires precise administration: calculating benefits, coordinating with compensation offices, updating payslips, and issuing salary certificates.

quitt Business takes care of it all:

• Full payroll management including maternity/paternity allowances

• Automatic reporting to compensation offices

• Handling of extended leave in case of newborn hospitalization

• Compliance with Swiss law and applicable CBAs

👉 With quitt Business, you save time, reduce errors, and ensure full legal compliance.

Conclusion

Maternity and paternity leave are essential rights in Switzerland. Properly managed, they bring clarity for employers and security for families. With quitt Business, you ensure smooth, compliant, and reliable handling of these benefits.