Maternity and paternity leave when you work in Switzerland
Do you work in Switzerland and are you expecting a baby? Swiss rules apply to your leave, even if you live in France. Here are your rights and the steps to take.
- Maternity: 14 weeks paid at 80% of your salary, 16 weeks in Geneva.
- Paternity: 2 weeks paid at 80%, to be taken within 6 months of the birth.
- Cap: 220 CHF per day. Nothing is paid automatically: you have to apply.
Both types of leave at a glance
| Maternity leave | Paternity leave | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 14 weeks (98 days) from the birth. 16 weeks in the canton of Geneva | 2 weeks (14 daily allowances) |
| When | From the birth. Working is not allowed during the following 8 weeks | Within 6 months of the birth, all at once or as separate days |
| Amount | 80% of salary, up to 220 CHF per day | 80% of salary, up to 220 CHF per day, so 3,080 CHF at most in 2026 |
| Conditions | Have paid AVS contributions for the 9 months before the birth, including at least 5 months of work, and be working at the time of the birth | |
The steps
- Tell your employer about the pregnancy and the expected date of birth.
- Fill in the application form for the maternity or paternity allowance, to be submitted to your employer's compensation office. Your HR department will tell you which one.
- Attach the birth certificate of the child.
- The allowance is paid to your employer if they continue to pay your salary, otherwise directly to you.
Some collective agreements or employers offer longer or better-paid leave: check your contract.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cross-border worker entitled to Swiss maternity leave?
Yes. If you are working in Switzerland at the time of the birth and have paid AVS contributions for the previous 9 months, including 5 months of work, you are entitled to 14 weeks paid at 80% (16 weeks in Geneva).
How much do you receive during paternity leave in Switzerland?
80% of your average salary, up to 220 CHF per day, so 3,080 CHF at most for the 2 weeks in 2026.
Can paternity leave be taken in several parts?
Yes, in weeks or in days, as long as you take it within 6 months of the birth.
Sources: Frontaliers Grand Est, maternity leave (July 2026) · Frontaliers Grand Est, paternity leave (January 2026)