Apprenticeship in the Canton of Fribourg: practical guide (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Apprenticeship in Switzerland follows the EFA (Federal Vocational Education and Training Certificate) system, recognized nationally
• Training lasts 3–4 years and combines practical business experience (70–80%) with vocational school lessons (20–30%)
• A written contract is mandatory and regulates rights, duties, salary, and hours

Key facts

• System: EFA — dual training with federal recognition
• Duration: 3–4 years depending on the profession
• Territory: Entire Switzerland, including Canton Fribourg
• Mode: Practical training in the company + lessons in vocational school
• Certificate: Valid throughout Switzerland and internationally recognized

Apprenticeship in Canton Fribourg follows the national Swiss vocational training system, one of the most appreciated in Europe. It is not a regular school nor a standard job: it is a dual path that combines concrete business practice and theoretical training in vocational school.

Those who complete an apprenticeship obtain the EFA (Federal Vocational Education and Training Certificate), a certificate valid throughout Switzerland and internationally recognized. Canton Fribourg fully participates in this national system.

How is the training structured

Apprentices spend about 70–80% of their time in the company (applied practice) and 20–30% in vocational school (theoretical lessons). This balance allows for the acquisition of concrete skills in the field while being trained in the fundamentals of the chosen profession.

The duration varies according to the qualification: most apprenticeships last 3 years, some require 4. Throughout the entire path, the apprentice remains an employee of the company with a written contract that regulates mutual obligations, hours, and remuneration.

…

Operational details

The apprenticeship contract: rights and duties

Once you have found an employer, the first formal act is the signing of the apprenticeship contract. This binding document must be written and is mandatory under federal labor law.

The contract clearly specifies:

• The profession and the field of activity
• The start date and the expected duration
• The gross monthly salary (or hourly rate)
• Working hours and mandatory breaks
• The rights and duties of both parties
• The probation and notice periods

The apprentice has specific rights: they cannot be exploited or assigned to dangerous tasks without adequate supervision. They are entitled to a safe working environment, regular breaks, and to attend vocational school without loss of salary.

In turn, the apprentice commits to learning diligently, respecting working hours, following the instructions of the company trainer, and actively participating in school lessons.

Apprentice's remuneration

Remuneration is one of the most important aspects. In Switzerland, the apprentice's salary is lower than that of a qualified worker — this is normal and consistent with the fact that the apprentice is still learning the trade.

Switzerland does not have a uniform federal minimum wage for apprentices. However, the Canton of Fribourg, like other cantons, sets cantonal minimums for certain professions or sectors. These vary according to the field (trade, craft, industry, services) and the year of apprenticeship.

In practice:

• The first year provides a lower monthly salary.
• In the second and third year, the pay gradually increases.
• Towards the end of the training, the remuneration approaches that of a qualified worker but remains slightly lower.

…

Key points

Step-by-step procedure: how to apply

Step 1: Orientation and career choice Before looking for an employer, clarify which sector truly attracts you. Cantonal orientation offices provide free advice. It is useful to visit companies, meet professionals, understand the daily work and career prospects.

Step 2: Active search Use online portals, send spontaneous applications, participate in vocational fairs. The ideal search starts 12–18 months before the date you want to start.

Step 3: Interview and selection The employer will conduct interviews and, possibly, practical tests to assess aptitude, motivation, and compatibility with the company. It is an opportunity to ask questions and understand the work environment concretely.

Step 4: Contract signing Once accepted, the contract is signed by both parties. It contains all the details (start date, duration, gross salary, hours, employer, and apprentice). One copy remains with the apprentice, another with the employer; a third can be deposited with the competent cantonal office.

Step 5: Enrollment in vocational school The Canton of Fribourg coordinates the enrollment of apprentices in the appropriate vocational schools. The employer usually supports this administrative procedure. School starts in sync with the apprenticeship start date.

Step 6: Training and balance From this moment, the dual path begins: practice in the company according to the weekly schedule (usually 4 days) and lessons in vocational school (1–2 days).

Professional Maturity: the next step

Many apprentices, once they have completed their VET, continue towards professional maturity (PM). This is an additional diploma that allows access to universities of applied sciences (UAS) and certain programs of traditional universities.

…