Apprenticeships in Switzerland: How to Get Started

Context

At a Glance

• Dual apprenticeship: 3–4 years split between vocational school and a company
• AFC (Certificate of Competence): nationally recognized certificate
• No federal minimum wage: compensation agreed upon between the company and the apprentice
• Guaranteed rights: minimum vacation time, legal protection, AVS/AI/IPG social security contributions

Key Facts

• What: Vocational training through the Swiss dual system
• Where: Cantonal jurisdiction (including the canton of Basel-Landschaft)
• Duration: Typically 3–4 years
• Certificate: AFC (Federal Certificate of Competence)
• Federal agency: SECO coordinates the national vocational training system

An apprenticeship in Switzerland is not a traditional school-based education. It is a dual-track program that combines on-the-job training at a company (3–4 days per week) with vocational school (1 day per week), and is recognized at the federal level through the Federal Certificate of Professional Competence (AFC). In the canton of Basel-Landschaft, as in other Swiss cantons, there is an office dedicated to vocational training that oversees programs, contracts, and final exams.

How the Dual System Works

The model is simple: the apprentice signs a contract with a company and attends vocational school at the same time. The company teaches the practical aspects of the trade, while the school provides general and vocational theory. At the end of the 3–4 years, the apprentice takes the final exam to earn the AFC, a qualification recognized throughout Switzerland.

In addition to the AFC, it is possible to earn the vocational matura, a complementary diploma that grants direct admission to universities of applied sciences (SUP) without additional exams. The vocational matura is earned during the apprenticeship or immediately afterward, depending on the canton and the chosen program.

Operational details

Where to Look for an Apprenticeship

The search for an apprenticeship usually begins 12–24 months before the planned start date. The main channels are national online portals, websites of companies in the sector of interest, the cantonal vocational training office, career fairs and open houses at companies, and school guidance counselors. In the canton of Basel-Landschaft, the cantonal vocational training office can provide lists of companies hiring apprentices, information on available programs, and application procedures.

Consult the cantonal vocational training office to identify opportunities available in your field. The application must be submitted directly to the chosen company, along with a resume, a cover letter, and academic transcripts.

The Apprenticeship Contract: What It Contains

Once accepted by the company, the apprentice signs an apprenticeship contract (apprenticeship agreement). This document must include the apprentice’s and company’s details, the start and end dates of the apprenticeship, the occupation and training program (AFC), weekly working hours (maximum 45–50 hours depending on the sector), monthly compensation (agreed-upon amount), annual leave (at least 4–5 weeks depending on age), conditions for terminating the contract (probationary period, notice of termination), and references to the vocational school and its curriculum.

The contract must comply with the Federal Act on Vocational Education and Training (LFPr) and cantonal regulations. Before signing, it is advisable to read it carefully or have it reviewed by an advisor.

Rights and Responsibilities of the Apprentice

The apprentice has rights guaranteed by federal law. The maximum workweek is 45 hours in most sectors (manufacturing, office work, retail) or 50 hours in other sectors (agriculture, skilled trades). The minimum annual vacation is 4 weeks (5 weeks for those under 20). The employer cannot terminate the contract arbitrarily: during the first month (probationary period), the contract may be terminated without notice; thereafter, a notice period (usually 2 weeks) must be observed.

Health and safety protections are mandatory: the employer must provide a safe work environment and comply with safety regulations (LAINF, workers’ compensation insurance). The employer pays mandatory social security contributions (AVS/AI/IPG, AD/AC) and enrolls employees in occupational pension funds (LPP). If the apprentice is pregnant or a father, they are entitled to paid leave (14 weeks at 80% for maternity; 2 weeks for paternity). The apprentice has certain duties: to attend vocational school regularly, to follow the company’s instructions, to maintain confidentiality regarding company information, and to comply with safety regulations.

Useful planning tools

To estimate your pension strategy, use the pension planner and the pillar 3 simulator.

Key points

Apprentice Compensation

There is no federal minimum wage in Switzerland, either for regular employees or for apprentices. Compensation is agreed upon between the apprentice and the company, within a market range that varies by sector, canton, and vocational field. However, some cantons (including Basel-Landschaft) have set cantonal minimum wages for apprentices in certain sectors. It is advisable to consult your cantonal vocational training office to find out the applicable thresholds in your canton.

In general, apprentices’ wages increase over the course of their training: the first year has the lowest wage, while the second and third years see increases of 10–20%, as does the fourth year (if applicable). In addition to wages, the company pays mandatory social security contributions: AVS/AI/IPG (5.3% of gross wages, split between the employee and the company), unemployment insurance (AD), and insolvency benefits (AC) up to an annual cap, accident insurance (LAINF/LAA) depending on the sector (0.7–1.5%), and a professional pension fund (LPP) if applicable.

The apprentice receives a net salary, meaning it is net of the social security contributions (AVS/AI/IPG, AD/AC) already paid by the employer. Direct federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes are withheld or paid via an annual tax return. The gross and net amounts must be clearly indicated on the pay stub.

Step-by-step: How to Apply

1. Research and Select a Company — Identify sectors and companies of interest at least 12–24 months before the planned start date. Visit company websites, check national job portals, and speak with career counselors.

2. Preparing your application — Write a resume (brief, 1 page) including personal information, education, and work experience. Write a cover letter (half a page) explaining why you’ve chosen that profession and that company. Request a letter of recommendation or attach your most recent academic transcripts.

3. Submitting Your Application — Send your application to the company (by mail, email, or in person). Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and any attachments as specified by the company.

4. Job Interview — If you’re a good fit, the company will invite you for an interview. Prepare examples to demonstrate your motivation, ask thoughtful questions about the program, dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be polite.

5. Signing the Contract — If accepted, you’ll receive the apprenticeship contract. Read it carefully, ask questions, and keep a copy.

6. Enrollment in Vocational School — The company will enroll you in the appropriate vocational school. You’ll receive the class schedule and course materials.

If you’re interested in learning more about vocational training opportunities in the canton of Basel-Landschaft, visit the cantonal vocational training office to view available companies and contract terms. Use calcolatore di stipendio to estimate your monthly take-home pay based on a hypothetical gross salary, taking into account AVS/AI/IPG social security contributions, AD/AC unemployment insurance, and federal income tax. This will help you plan your personal budget during your apprenticeship.