Work
Some information is given below which may help you to find a part-time job, an internship or some other activity, e.g. as an au-pair. You can find further information in the AJAS documentation "Work" (see Downloads).
Part-time employment
Because not all students can be completely financed by their parents or can get a grant, there is often no alternative but to find a part-time or holiday job. This has the advantage that you can be sure of financing your education or training through your own efforts and, at the same time, you get an insight into the world of work. Part-time and holiday jobs often turn into permanent jobs on completion of the education or training because people with work experience are in demand. But there is also the danger that, because of work, your actual education or training can be neglected and you may have to extend your education/training period considerably.
Permission to Work
As a Swiss abroad, you can apply for work in Switzerland without any additional papers. Of course, you must ask yourself how you are going to find a suitable job.
Job Agencies
Official employment agencies are actually only for unemployed people: they search for work. But there are so-called job agencies and temp agencies which mediate between companies who are looking for employees and between people looking for jobs. The companies bear the costs incurred. AJAS does not offer assistance in job search.
You need to act on your own initiative
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You can always send an application (covering letter, CV, copies of diplomas and references etc) to selected companies.
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Job vacancies regularly appear in Swiss newspapers.
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You will also find job openings on the Internet. This is an ideal way for you, as a Swiss Abroad, to get a picture of the job situation in Switzerland.
Work Experience
Work experience can be either a transitory solution after school before the actual training begins or may be a prerequisite for admission to a training course. Work experience can be done in many businesses and should give an insight into and some initial knowledge of the profession. Finding suitable work experience is not easy.
Au Pair
You can combine a language course with work as an au pair. This has the advantage that you will be able to communicate in your new language once the course has finished and you will have got to know about life in Switzerland from the inside. Board and lodging is taken care of and you are paid pocket money for your work in the foreign household.
