In Ticino, the wage gap between residents and cross-border workers is 19%
The study by the Canton Ticino's Statistical Office reveals a 19.4% wage gap between cross-border workers and residents, with a slight reduction compared to 2022.
Contesto
Wage gap decreases, but remains significant According to the latest study by the Canton Ticino Statistics Office (USTAT), in 2024 the median salary of cross-border workers in the private sector in Ticino was 19.4% lower than that of residents. This figure confirms a structural disparity, but also marks a slight reduction compared to the 2020–2022 period, when the gap was 20.2%. A very modest reduction, but one that USTAT defines as statistically significant. The standardized gross monthly salary considered in the study is calculated for the month of October, including allowances for shift work and Sunday or night work, 1/12 of the thirteenth salary and 1/12 of special annual payments (bonuses). Family allowances and those for children are not included. Furthermore, the gross monthly salary is standardized to the full-time equivalent remuneration, based on 40 hours of work. ### Analysis of the components of the gap USTAT distinguishes between an 'explained' and an 'unexplained' component of the wage gap. The explained component is linked to objective and observable factors such as age, level of education, economic sector and professional position. Historically, cross-border workers are more often employed in sectors with lower added value or in roles with fewer responsibilities, which tend to be less remunerated. Even taking these factors into account, however, there remains an 'unexplained' share of the gap, attributable to elements not directly observable - such as the ability to negotiate salaries or the willingness to accept lower remuneration to access the Swiss market. ### Wage differences along the income distribution The analysis also shows that the wage gap is not uniform along the income distribution. On the contrary, wage differences tend to widen with i...
Dettagli operativi
Practical Implications and Concrete Scenarios The slight reduction in the salary differential observed between 2020 and 2024 is not coincidental, but fits into a deeply changed regulatory and fiscal context. On one hand, the introduction and gradual adjustment of the cantonal minimum wage have particularly affected the lowest wages. In 2024, the minimum threshold is around 20 gross francs per hour, with an increase expected for 2027. ### Concrete Scenarios for Cross-Border Workers For cross-border workers employed in Ticino, the reduction in the salary gap represents a step forward, but the gap remains significant. For example, a cross-border worker with a median salary of approximately 4,600 gross francs per month could see an increase of about 100 francs per month thanks to the reduction in the gap. However, this increase is still far from bridging the difference with residents, who receive a median salary of approximately 5,708 francs. ### Comparisons with the Previous Situation Before the introduction of the minimum wage and the new tax agreement with Italy, the salary gap was even wider. In 2020, the gap was 20.2%, with cross-border workers earning on average 20% less than residents. The reduction in the gap, albeit modest, represents a significant improvement for cross-border workers, who often accept lower wages to access the Swiss labor market. ### Concrete Procedures for Cross-Border Workers For cross-border workers who wish to improve their remuneration position, it is important to consider several factors. First of all, it is essential to acquire specific skills and certifications that can increase the value of their professional profile. Furthermore, it is useful to actively negotiate their salary, taking into account the skills and responsibilities a...
Punti chiave
Concrete actions and useful tools For cross-border workers who want to improve their salary position, it's important to follow some concrete procedures. First of all, it's essential to acquire specific skills and certifications that can increase the value of your professional profile. Additionally, it's useful to actively negotiate your salary, taking into account the skills and responsibilities assumed. Finally, it's important to monitor job opportunities in sectors with higher added value, where salary differences tend to be less marked. ### Useful tools for cross-border workers To help cross-border workers navigate the complex job market in Ticino, there are several useful tools. For example, the salary calculator can help you estimate your salary based on your skills and experience. Additionally, the permit comparator can provide useful information about the different types of work permits and their conditions. ### Deadlines and procedures It's important to keep in mind that the procedures for salary negotiation and the acquisition of new skills can take time and commitment. However, with the right strategy and the use of the available tools, cross-border workers can significantly improve their salary position and reduce the salary gap with residents. ### Conclusion In conclusion, reducing the salary gap between cross-border workers and residents in Ticino is a significant step forward, but the gap remains wide. For cross-border workers, it is essential to acquire specific skills, actively negotiate their salary, and monitor job opportunities in sectors with higher added value. By using the available tools and following concrete procedures, cross-border workers can improve their salary position and reduce the salary gap with residents. Source: tvsvizzera.it
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the median salary of cross-border workers in Ticino?
- In 2024, the median salary of cross-border workers in the private sector in Ticino was 19.4% lower than that of residents, with a median salary of approximately 4,600 CHF gross per month.
- What factors contribute to the salary gap?
- The salary gap is influenced by factors such as age, level of education, economic sector, and professional position. Additionally, there is an 'unexplained' component related to elements not directly observable, such as salary negotiation skills.
- What are the concrete procedures to improve one's remuneration position?
- To improve one's remuneration position, it is important to acquire specific skills and certifications, actively negotiate one's salary, and monitor job opportunities in sectors with higher added value.