Working in Switzerland with S Protection Status: Rules, Permits, and Key Facts

After the outbreak of the full-scale war in Ukraine, Switzerland introduced for the first time in its history the special protection status S.

This status grants Ukrainian nationals the right to temporary residence, health insurance, education for children, and the right to work.

However, before starting a job, you must obtain an official work permit.

Any employment without it is considered illegal.

Who Can Work under Status S

According to the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), anyone holding S status may work in Switzerland, provided a cantonal work permit has been approved.

The employer submits the application — this applies even to part-time or short-term jobs.

What Counts as “Work”

In Switzerland, any activity performed for payment is considered gainful employment.

That includes:

• regular employment in companies or private households,
• freelance or service work (cleaning, translation, manicure, etc.),
• part-time or temporary jobs,
• seasonal or short-term work.

Even if the job pays little or is “just helping out,” it still qualifies as employment — and needs authorization.

Trial Days and Unpaid Work

According to SEM, even unpaid activity may require a permit if it would normally be paid.

A “trial day” without permission is only allowed if the candidate observes but does not perform actual work.

How to Get a Work Permit

1. The employer submits the application to the cantonal labor or migration office.
2. The employee pays no fees – all costs are covered by the employer.
3. Once approved, the employee may officially start working.
4. Working without authorization is considered illegal employment, punishable by law.

The permit is valid for the duration of the employment contract, or as long as the S status remains active. If the status is renewed, the work permit can also be extended.

What the Permit Looks Like & Processing Time

• Each canton issues its own permits.
• The application includes details on salary, job type, and duration.
• The review usually takes a few days to two weeks.
• The permit is sent via email or post.
• If the employee changes jobs, a new application is required.

(Official sources: sem.admin.ch, zh.ch)

If an Employer Refuses to Apply

If an employer offers a job “off the books” or suggests a “trial period without paperwork,” it’s illegal employment.

You have the right to:

• refuse such an offer without any consequences;
• report the situation to your local social service, cantonal labor authority, or trusted NGOs such as Caritas Switzerland or the Swiss Refugee Council (OSAR).

Responsibility lies entirely with the employer, not the worker.

Self-Employment and Freelancing

People with S status can also work independently (as freelancers or small business owners) but must apply for a specific permit.

Cantons review:

• whether the business activity is realistic and financially viable,
• whether it complies with market standards,
• whether the person can sustain themselves financially.

Once approved, the individual registers with AHV (Swiss social insurance) and pays contributions.

Taxes and Social Contributions

• Employees: all contributions (pension, disability, unemployment insurance) are automatically deducted from salary.
• Self-employed persons: must register with AHV/IV/EO and pay contributions on net income.
• Self-employed people are not automatically insured against unemployment but may choose private coverage.
• Those earning over CHF 100 000 per year must register for VAT.

(Official sources: kmu.admin.ch, selbststaendig-erwerbend.ch)

Cantonal Specifics

Work permits are handled at the cantonal level:

• Zürich: Office for Economy and Labour (AWA)
• Vaud: Service de l’emploi (SDE)

Most applications can be submitted online or by email.

Conclusion

Even short or unpaid work in Switzerland requires an official permit.

These regulations are designed to protect people with S status from exploitation and ensure fair working conditions for everyone.

Sources:

• Staatssekretariat für Migration (SEM): FAQ «Arbeiten in der Schweiz für Personen mit Schutzstatus S»
• Staatssekretariat für Migration (SEM): Erwerbstätige aus dem Asylbereich
• Kanton Zürich – Amt für Wirtschaft und Arbeit (AWA): Erwerbstätigkeit für Schutzstatus S
• asylum-info.ch – Informationsplattform für Geflüchtete in der Schweiz