Updated · 2026-05-13
Staffing agencies in Lugano: a 2026 cross-border worker guide
Dozens of staffing and placement agencies operate in Lugano, all supervised by SECO. This guide explains how to recognise an authorised agency, what a temporary-work contract must state for an Italian cross-border worker on permit G, which are the main brands with a Lugano branch, and where to find the official, always-up-to-date SECO list.
How to verify SECO authorisation
Every staffing and placement agency in Switzerland needs a cantonal licence and, to operate across cantons or with foreign candidates, a federal SECO authorisation under the 1989 Employment Service Act. The SECO maintains a public electronic register covering over 7,200 companies. If the agency contacting you is not in that register, it is a red flag — refuse to sign.
As a cross-border worker you have the right to ask for the authorisation reference and a copy of the applicable collective agreement (typically the national CCL Personalverleih). A transparent agency will provide both within 24 hours.
Main agencies with a Lugano branch
International groups active in Lugano include Adecco, Manpower, Randstad, Kelly Services, Interiman and Trenkwalder. Regional agencies like Sintex and Axxon Services also hold SECO authorisation. Specialisations vary: healthcare, industrial, IT, hospitality, accounting.
The list here is not exhaustive: the complete, authoritative list is the SECO AVG register, filterable by canton (TI) and city. We recommend registering with 2-3 agencies simultaneously to maximise matching opportunities, while avoiding duplicate applications to the same end employer.
What a temporary-work contract must state
A Swiss temporary-work contract must specify: gross hourly wage, overtime and night premiums, vacation allowance (minimum 8.33% for 4 weeks), 13th salary pro rata, social contributions deducted (AVS/AI/IPG 5.3%, AD 1.1%, LPP above threshold, LAINF non-professional), minimum guaranteed mission duration when applicable.
For permit G cross-border workers the contract must state how the source tax and the compensation charge are applied — under the new Italy-Switzerland tax treaty of 23 December 2020, in force since 2024.
Common mistakes to avoid
Three mistakes are repeated constantly: accepting the first offer without comparing; signing with a non-authorised agency lured by above-market promises (contract is null, LAINF coverage absent); accepting off-the-books salary components for “tax optimisation” (illegal, cantonal authorities cross-check payslips).
Dedicate half a day to comparing two or three agencies before accepting: the spread on identical profiles can reach 10-15% of the hourly wage.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find the official list of SECO-authorised staffing agencies in Lugano?
Use the SECO AVG public register at vzavg1.admin.ch/vzavg-verzeichnis-frontend, filter by canton TI and city Lugano. It is the only authoritative source.
Can I register with several staffing agencies at once?
Yes. There is no exclusivity and many cross-border workers register with 3-5 agencies to maximise opportunities. Avoid duplicate applications to the same end client — some agencies apply lock-in clauses.
Can the agency keep a share of my salary as commission?
No. The Federal Employment Service Act bars the worker from paying commissions; agency fees are paid by the end employer. Any agency asking for money from the candidate is operating illegally.