Labour Leasing/SECO License for recruitment in Switzerland
If you are planning to establish a company that leases employees or provides recruitment services in Switzerland, compliance with Swiss labour law is not optional – it is the foundation your business must be built on. Switzerland regulates labour leasing through the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to protect workers and ensure fair business practices, and any company engaged in temporary staffing, personnel leasing, or recruitment activities must hold the correct licence before operating.
A SECO licence in Switzerland applies at the federal level for cross-border and international staffing operations, while a cantonal licence covers businesses leasing Swiss nationals or foreign nationals with valid work permits. A labour leasing licence – also known as a body leasing or staff leasing licence – is required whether you operate as a temporary staffing agency, a recruitment agency, or a headhunter placing candidates with companies in Switzerland.
The requirements are largely consistent across these business types, though recruitment agencies are not required to make the financial deposit needed to secure workers’ wages. Regardless of your model, securing the right SECO licence in Switzerland or cantonal licence is mandatory – and IncoSwiss guides you through every step of the process – from understanding your obligations to submitting a complete, compliant application – and helps you ensure your business is fully compliant from the outset.
Cantonal vs. Federal (SECO) Labour Leasing License in Switzerland
Cantonal License
This is required for businesses leasing Swiss nationals or foreign nationals with a valid work permit (B, C, or G permits).
Federal (SECO) License
If your company hires foreign nationals who do not have a work permit or operates cross-border, you will need to apply for a Federal License from SECO.
Why Do You Need a Labour Leasing License for recruitment in Switzerland?
Switzerland has strict regulations designed to protect workers from exploitation, ensuring that temporary workers are employed only through authorized entities. A Labour Leasing License is necessary for businesses that wish to engage in personnel leasing or recruitment services, including:
- Personnel Leasing Services – Leasing employees to other businesses on a temporary or project basis.
- Recruitment Services – Providing recruitment services for companies in Switzerland.
- Platform-based Recruitment – Using online platforms to lease or recruit employees.
- Specialized Areas – Including placements for sports professionals, musicians, artists, and those in the care or household service sectors.
If your business engages in any of these activities, securing a Body Leasing License in Switzerland is mandatory to ensure compliance with local laws.
Recruitment Agencies and Headhunters: Do You Need a Labour Leasing License in Switzerland?
If your business operates as a recruitment agency or headhunter, you will still need a Labour Leasing License. While the requirements are largely the same as those for staffing companies, recruitment agencies are not required to make the financial deposit to secure workers’ wages.
However, recruitment agencies must meet all other regulatory requirements to operate legally in Switzerland.
When Do You Need a SECO License in Switzerland?
A SECO Labour Leasing License in Switzerland is required for:
- Leasing employees to businesses located outside of Switzerland.
- Leasing employees from EU/EFTA countries who are entering Switzerland for the first time with a B residence permit or a G cross-border commuter permit.
- Leasing foreign nationals with a short-term residence permit (L permits).
- Leasing and recruiting recognized refugees or temporarily admitted persons.
How IncoSwiss Can Help
At IncoSwiss, we guide you through every step of the Labour Leasing License application process in Switzerland. From understanding the legal framework to preparing and submitting your application, we ensure that your business stays fully compliant with all Swiss regulations.
Ready to apply for your Body Leasing License in Switzerland? Contact IncoSwiss today, and let our experts assist you in navigating the application process.
Key Requirements for a Labour Leasing License in Switzerland
Company Registration
Your company must be registered in the Swiss Commercial Register.
Business Premises
Your business must have suitable office space, including at least one lockable room for the sole use of the company.
No Conflicting Interests
The company must not engage in activities that conflict with the interests of workers or employers.
Swiss Resident Responsible Person
The business must be headed by a Swiss resident who holds a valid professional qualification (e.g., an apprenticeship or equivalent training) and has several years of relevant experience in private placement or labour leasing services.
Financial Deposit
A deposit is required to secure workers' wages. The deposit is CHF 50'000 for a Cantonal License and CHF 50'000 for a Federal SECO License.
Q&A
What is a Labour Leasing License in Switzerland?
A Labour Leasing License is required for businesses that lease employees to other companies in Switzerland. It ensures that your business complies with Swiss employment laws and protects workers’ rights.
What is the difference between a Cantonal and Federal Labour Leasing License in Switzerland?
A Cantonal Licence is required for businesses leasing Swiss nationals or foreign nationals with work permits (B, C, or G). A Federal SECO Licence is needed for companies hiring foreign nationals without work permits or for cross-border activities.
How long does it take to get a Labour Leasing License?
The application process can take several weeks to months, depending on your specific situation. At IncoSwiss, we help ensure that your application is processed efficiently and accurately.
What are the costs involved in obtaining a Labour Leasing License?
The costs include a deposit of CHF 50’000 for a Cantonal License and an additional CHF 50’000 for a Federal SECO License. Other administrative fees will apply, depending on your specific situation.