Switzerland introduced paternity leave (Vaterschaftsurlaub) in January 2021 and expanded family leave provisions with shared parental leave (Elternurlaub) effective January 2024. Under the Erwerbsersatzordnung (EO), fathers are entitled to two weeks of exclusive paternity leave at 80% pay. Since the 2024 reform, parents can also share an additional 14 weeks of parental leave at 80% pay, on top of the mother's 14 weeks of maternity leave. Both benefits are funded through social insurance contributions and paid directly by the Ausgleichskasse.

Statutory entitlement

Paternity leave: 2 weeks at 80% of salary, capped at CHF 220/day, to be taken within 6 months of birth. Shared parental leave (Elternurlaub): 14 weeks at 80% of salary, capped at CHF 220/day, shared between both parents, to be taken before the child's first birthday.

Eligibility

Both parents must have been employed or have contributed to the EO scheme for at least nine months immediately before the birth. The paternity leave is exclusively for fathers (or the second parent in same-sex couples). Shared parental leave can be divided between both parents but cannot be transferred entirely to one parent.

Employer obligations

  • Grant 2 weeks of paternity leave within 6 months of the child's birth.
  • Grant 14 weeks of shared parental leave to be taken before the child turns one.
  • Continue paying social security and pension contributions during the leave periods.
  • Not dismiss the employee during paternity or parental leave (protected period).
  • Allow employees to request the leave in flexible blocks, subject to reasonable scheduling.

Employee rights

  • Right to 2 weeks of paid paternity leave at 80% of salary (capped at CHF 220/day).
  • Right to 14 weeks of shared parental leave at 80% of salary (capped at CHF 220/day).
  • Right to take leave in flexible blocks — paternity leave in days, parental leave in weeks or parts of weeks.
  • Right to protection from dismissal during the leave period.
  • Right to return to the same or an equivalent position after leave.

Common pitfalls

  • Missing the 6-month deadline for paternity leave — it must be taken within 6 months of birth and cannot be carried over.
  • Not understanding the sharing rule — the 14 weeks of Elternurlaub cannot be transferred entirely to one parent; both must take at least a portion.
  • Confusing Elternurlaub with Mutterschaftsurlaub — the 14-week shared parental leave is separate from and additional to the mother's 14-week maternity leave.
  • Overlooking the 9-month contribution requirement — both parents must meet this to qualify.

Paternity leave (Vaterschaftsurlaub)

Fathers (or the second parent) are entitled to two weeks of paternity leave at 80% of their average income, capped at CHF 220 per day. The leave must be taken within six months of the child's birth and can be split into individual days. The benefit is paid by the Ausgleichskasse upon submission of the birth certificate and employer confirmation.

Shared parental leave (Elternurlaub)

Since January 2024, parents can share 14 weeks of parental leave at 80% of salary, capped at CHF 220 per day. The leave must be taken before the child's first birthday. Both parents must use at least part of the entitlement — it cannot be transferred entirely to one parent. This leave is in addition to the mother's 14 weeks of maternity leave.

Cantonal variations

Some cantons offer additional family leave provisions. Geneva, for instance, provides supplementary leave for cantonal employees. Collective labour agreements (GAV) in some industries also offer more generous parental leave arrangements. Employers should check both cantonal and GAV provisions that apply to their workforce.

Frequently asked questions

Can the 2 weeks of paternity leave be split?

Yes. Paternity leave can be taken as individual days, not necessarily in a continuous two-week block. However, all days must be taken within six months of the child's birth.

Is the 14-week shared parental leave in addition to maternity leave?

Yes. The 14 weeks of Elternurlaub is entirely separate from the mother's 14-week Mutterschaftsurlaub. A family could theoretically receive up to 30 weeks of paid leave (14 maternity + 2 paternity + 14 shared).

Can self-employed parents claim parental leave benefits?

Yes, provided they contribute to the EO scheme and meet the nine-month contribution requirement. Self-employed parents receive the same 80% benefit (capped at CHF 220/day).

Sources

This page is provided for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the cited primary source for current law before making employment decisions.