Return to Switzerland without a job: what to know first (cross-border guide)

Context

In short - In December 2024, the OSE received 240 requests for return to Switzerland - Returnees must have savings for at least one year - Foreign unemployment benefits last 3-6 months after return - To continue receiving checks, you need to comply with Swiss conditions ## Key facts - What: Right to return unemployment benefits - When: Foreign benefits valid 3-6 months after return - Where: Switzerland, local employment offices - Who: State Secretariat for the Economy (SECO), OSE - Amount: 70% or 80% of the last salary (only for those residing in Switzerland) - Requirements: Benefits transfer form to be completed before return Returning Returning to Switzerland without an already secured job requires careful planning, especially if you are looking for a new job. As communicated in December 2024, the difficulty of returning depends on several factors: age, professional qualifications, language skills and family network. "You can't afford to go back without a good plan," said a woman who returned after twelve years in the UK. "You have to have savings for about a year," he added. Upon arrival, she was able to count on the support of friends. # ## The unemployment benefit situation In December 2024, the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSE) received 240 requests for information on returning home. Ursula Fill in the form for the transfer of unemployment benefits before return 3. Submit the form to the placement office of the Municipality of residence on return 4. Participate in coaching sessions and submit job applications regularly The official information of the Confederation is available on the FDFA website. For personalised advice, you can contact the OSE.

Operational details

How the transfer of unemployment benefits works

When a person returns to Switzerland after losing their job in a European country, they can continue to receive unemployment benefits already obtained in that country, but only for a limited period. As specified by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), foreign benefits are valid for a period between three and six months after return. However, this transfer is not automatic: you must fill out a specific form before leaving your country of residence.

## The Transfer Form: What You Need to Know

The form for the transfer of benefits must be completed and submitted to the employment office of the Swiss municipality in which you intend to reside. Without this document, you cannot continue to receive unemployment benefits after you return. "Before repatriation, they must fill out a form to request the transfer of benefits," stresses SECO. This step is essential to avoid interruptions in the disbursement of checks.

### Conditions to be met after return

Once you return to Switzerland, you must meet the same conditions as Swiss citizens to continue receiving unemployment benefits, including:

• Participation in coaching sessions : mandatory to maintain the right to benefits
• Submission of applications for

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Concrete steps for returning to Switzerland without losing your rights

Returning to Switzerland without a secured job requires careful attention to procedural details. Following these steps can make the difference between a smooth transition and the loss of unemployment benefits.

Step 1: Assess your situation at least six months in advance

Before making a decision, it is essential to evaluate your employment, financial, and family situation. According to information communicated in December 2024, the OSE received 240 requests for information regarding repatriation, demonstrating how common this need is. 'The difficulty of returning to Switzerland depends on the individual situation,' explains Ursula Schindler of the OSE. For example, those with dependents must consider Switzerland’s cost of living, which can be significantly higher than in other European countries.

Step 2: Contact the competent authorities

To avoid surprises, it is advisable to contact the competent authorities at least six months before your return. Official information from the Swiss Confederation is available on the FDFA website. Additionally, the OSE offers personalized advisory services for those considering repatriation. It is important to note that Swiss citizens residing in an EU or EFTA country cannot claim unemployment benefits in Switzerland after their benefits end in their previous country of residence.

…