)
Switzerland does not have a national statutory minimum wage, this may come as a surprise, especially if you come from a country where clear minimum wage thresholds are legally defined. But that does not mean that every employer in Switzerland can freely decide how much to pay.
Several cantons have introduced their own minimum wages, with sometimes significant differences. Anyone working in Switzerland should be aware of these differences, understand the cantonal regulations, and be able to assess whether the offered salary corresponds to local conditions.
Because between an hourly wage of 21 CHF and the Swiss average of 40 CHF lies more than just a number, it's about quality of life, fairness, and how far your money really goes in everyday life.
Table of Contents
- Which cantons will have a minimum wage in 2025, and how high is it?
- How does the minimum wage compare to the average wage in Switzerland?
- How can I find out if my job is subject to a minimum wage?
- How much room is there for salary negotiations?
- How can you ensure that your salary is not eaten up by fees?
- Are there any new developments regarding the minimum wage?
- How can you get started in the Swiss job market?
- Conclusion, How much guidance does the minimum wage in Switzerland really offer?
Which cantons will have a minimum wage in 2025, and how high is it?
In four cantons, employees benefit from clearly defined minimum wage thresholds. Here’s an overview for 2025:
Note on the table: The information on minimum wages in the table is based on publicly available data (as of June 2025) and may change depending on political developments or cantonal adjustments. For binding and up-to-date information, it's best to check the official websites of the respective cantons or cantonal labor inspectorates.
Important: In many industries, such as construction, cleaning or hospitality, sector-specific minimum wages apply, which are often higher. These are regulated in the respective collective labor agreements (CLAs).
How does the minimum wage compare to the average wage in Switzerland?
Significantly. The average gross salary is around 6,700 CHF per month, this corresponds to 35 to 40 CHF per hour depending on the industry. Minimum wages of around 21 to 24 CHF per hour are therefore more in the lower range.
But it's not just about numbers. The cost of living in Switzerland is high, and varies greatly depending on location. In rural regions, an hourly wage of 22 CHF may be enough for a simple but independent life. In cities like Zurich or Geneva, the same amount quickly becomes tight.
That’s why many organisations call for a so-called living wage, a salary that enables not just survival, but a dignified life – including rent, health insurance, mobility and occasional leisure.
How can I find out if my job is subject to a minimum wage?
That depends on the canton and the industry.
A few simple steps can help:
Check your employment contract: Is an hourly wage mentioned? Is there a reference to a CLA?
Know the cantonal regulation: Is the place of work in a canton with a minimum wage?
Understand the industry: Is there a CLA with specific minimum wages?
Read the CLAs: Many are available online at gav-service.ch
If no clear wage is mentioned or the offer seems very low – it’s worth asking. In Switzerland, it’s completely normal to discuss salary even at entry level.
How much room is there for salary negotiations?
More than many expect. Swiss companies value fairness and transparency, also in the hiring process.
That means, if you are well-prepared, come with realistic salary expectations, and confidently present your qualifications, you have a good chance of negotiating a fair wage.
What helps in preparation?
Use a salary calculator – for example lohnrechner.ch
Know the cantonal minimum wages
Check CLA requirements
Ask colleagues or professional bodies – such as cantonal labor inspectorates
How can you ensure that your salary is not eaten up by fees?
Salary is one thing – what actually lands in your account is another. Many expats pay (often unknowingly) high fees for international transfers, poor exchange rates or account maintenance.
This can cost thousands of francs over months and years – money that would be better spent on rent, education or savings.
What helps in practice?
An account with a bank that offers fair conditions
No fees for international transactions
Multi-currency accounts to avoid conversion losses
Smart tools for budget planning
What can you do?
Open an account with Alpian. Why?
No fees for global payments
Multi-currency accounts (CHF, EUR, USD, GBP) – perfect if you live or pay in several countries
Free account opening – in just a few minutes via app
Are there any new developments regarding the minimum wage?
Yes. In several cantons – for example Zurich, Vaud or Ticino – political initiatives for cantonal minimum wages are currently underway.
The positions are clear:
Trade unions want uniform minimum standards for all regions.
Employer associations prefer voluntary industry solutions or regional flexibility.
What does this mean for you? The situation can change quickly – especially with referendums. It is therefore worth staying informed locally – via news portals, cantonal offices or your HR department.
How can you get started in the Swiss job market?
Switzerland has a stable labor market – with strong demand for skilled professionals. But getting started requires good preparation.
What helps in practice?
Build your network, many jobs are filled through personal contacts.
Language skills, depending on the region: German, French or Italian.
Recognition of diplomas, especially important in care, education and trades.
Clear CV focused on your strengths and specialisations.
Tip: Platforms like jobs.ch, jobup.ch or LinkedIn are good starting points. And: many employers appreciate a short, precise unsolicited application – especially if it shows that you understand the local market.
)
Open your free multi-currency bank account in only 10 minutes.
Conclusion, How much guidance does the minimum wage in Switzerland really offer?
There is no national minimum wage. But there is guidance – if you know what to look out for.
The most important points at a glance:
Do you know the minimum wage in your canton?
Does your contract mention a salary or reference a CLA?
Is your industry covered by a collective labor agreement?
Have you realistically calculated your cost of living?
Are you losing money through unnecessary banking fees?
With a clear view of the job market, a fair salary – and the right account – you can build a stable standard of living in Switzerland even with an entry-level salary.
)
)
)
