Here is some important information about the SECO Licence.
The Swiss SECO licence, or the labour leasing licence, is issued by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and allows companies to engage in temporary staffing or labour leasing in Switzerland.
Key points to remember:
There are two main types of SECO licences: Cantonal licences are valid only in the specific canton where they are issued, while federal licences are valid throughout Switzerland.
Any company wishing to offer private employment and temporary recruitment regularly and for remuneration must apply in writing for a cantonal licence to the authority of the canton of its establishment.
For cross-border activities, you need a federal licence in addition to the cantonal licence. Once issued, the licence is valid for an unlimited period and allows companies to offer services throughout Switzerland.
Private employment/temporary recruitment companies operating without a licence may face up to CHF 100,000 financial penalties.
Requirements for obtaining a SECO licence:
To obtain a SECO licence, companies must meet several requirements, including:
- Having a registered office in Switzerland
- Having a good financial standing
- Having qualified personnel with experience in human resources and Swiss labour law
- Providing adequate social security and insurance for temporary workers
- Financial deposit: While some cantons may require a monetary deposit as security, not all have this requirement. It’s essential to check with the specific canton where you plan to operate to confirm their requirements.
How to apply for a SECO licence:
First, you must apply for a cantonal licence for the canton where you plan to operate. As the application process can be complex, seeking professional advice from a lawyer or other expert is advisable.
Once you have the cantonal licence, you can apply to SECO in Bern for the federal licence, enabling you to operate throughout Switzerland and abroad.
Benefits of obtaining a SECO licence:
Several benefits come with obtaining a SECO licence, including:
- The ability to legally hire temporary workers in Switzerland
- Access to a broader pool of potential candidates
- Increased flexibility in meeting staffing needs
- Improved brand reputation
How can Access Financial help you in Switzerland?
Our headquarters are in Nyon, in the canton of Vaud. We are registered with the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs and the Cantonal Employment Service to engage in labour leasing and payroll management activities within Switzerland.
We oversee all contracting formalities and legalities for corporations, recruitment agencies, and contractors. Our services benefit employers by ensuring local compliance, the recruitment agency by ensuring a satisfied client, and the contractor by maximising their earnings and providing a legally compliant payroll solution.