The information provided in this chapter concerns only those persons who are subject to Swiss labour law, such as employees recruited locally by the permanent missions, unless the law of another country, as stipulated in a written employment contract, is applicable (law of the sending state).

It should be borne in mind that transferable career personnel of foreign States seconded to a permanent mission in Geneva are subject to the labour law of the State that employs them. Swiss labour law are not applicable in this case and Swiss industrial tribunals do not have jurisdiction. The same is true for members of personnel of international organisations who are subject to the internal rules and regulations of the organisation employing them.

Employment conditions and work relations relevant in the case of private servants of members of a permanent mission or international organisation are defined in the Private Household Employees Ordinance of 6 June 2011 available on this Website.

• Employing household staff for a few hours a week
• Indemnity for prolonged period of employment
• Labour conditions (general remarks)
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Minimum wage in the canton of Geneva
• Number of annual pay checks
• Office of the Amiable compositeur
• Payment of wages for a limited period
• Recruting local staff
• Vacation, public holidays, working hours

Specialist Contact

Permanent Mission of Switzerland to UNOG
Office of Privileges & immunities
Rue de Varembé 9-11
P.O. Box 194
CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. +41 (0)58 482 24 24
Fax +41 (0)58 482 24 37