Service Letter Template for Switzerland

A Service Letter is an official document Swiss employers provide to employees when their employment ends. It confirms basic details about the working relationship, including job title, start and end dates, and main responsibilities - but unlike a Work Certificate, it doesn't evaluate performance or conduct.

Swiss law requires employers to issue Service Letters upon request, giving workers proof of their employment history for future job applications. These letters stick to neutral, factual information and follow a standardized format that's widely recognized across Swiss industries. Many Swiss companies use templates approved by cantonal employment offices to ensure compliance.

Request a Service Letter when leaving any job in Switzerland - it's a standard part of the employment exit process. Most employees ask for it during their notice period or final weeks, giving their employer time to prepare the document properly. The letter becomes especially valuable when applying for new positions or dealing with unemployment insurance claims.

Swiss employers must provide Service Letters promptly upon receiving a request from current or former employees. Getting this document early helps avoid delays in job applications or benefit claims. For international job searches, having an official Service Letter can help explain your Swiss work history to foreign employers who might not be familiar with local employment practices.

• Letter Of Employment Verification: Basic Service Letter confirming employment dates and position only
• Referral Letter: Extended Service Letter including optional job responsibilities and achievements
• Letter Of Authorization: Special Service Letter authorizing third parties to verify employment details
• Leave Application Letter: Modified Service Letter for temporary leave periods

• HR Departments: Responsible for drafting and maintaining Service Letters, ensuring compliance with Swiss employment law requirements
• Direct Supervisors: Provide input on job duties and dates of employment for accurate documentation
• Current/Former Employees: Request and receive Service Letters for job applications, unemployment claims, or visa purposes
• Potential Employers: Use Service Letters to verify candidates' work history in Swiss companies
• Employment Offices: Reference Service Letters when processing unemployment benefits or maintaining employment records

• Employee Details: Gather accurate personal information, including full name, position titles, and exact employment dates
• Job Description: List main responsibilities and duties performed during employment
• Department History: Note any transfers or role changes within the organization
• Format Check: Use our platform's Swiss-compliant templates to ensure all mandatory elements are included
• Language Choice: Select appropriate language (German, French, Italian, or English) based on canton and recipient needs
• Verification: Have HR and direct supervisor review details before finalizing

• Company Information: Full legal name, address, and contact details of the employing organization
• Employee Details: Full name, date of birth, and nationality as shown in official documents
• Employment Period: Precise start and end dates of the working relationship
• Position Details: Official job titles and main responsibilities without evaluative comments
• Legal Declaration: Statement confirming the factual nature of the information provided
• Authentication: Date, location, authorized signature, and company stamp where required
• Data Protection: Reference to Swiss data protection compliance if personal information is included

A Service Letter differs significantly from an Employment Reference Letter in several key aspects, though both are important employment documents in Switzerland. The main distinction lies in their content and purpose.

• Content Scope: Service Letters stick to objective facts like employment dates and job titles, while Employment Reference Letters include performance evaluations and detailed assessments
• Legal Requirements: Swiss law mandates employers provide Service Letters upon request, but Reference Letters are optional unless specifically agreed upon
• Timing: Service Letters are typically issued at employment end, while Reference Letters can be provided during or after employment
• Usage Context: Service Letters serve as official employment verification, while Reference Letters support job applications with qualitative insights
• Liability Impact: Service Letters carry minimal legal risk due to their factual nature, while Reference Letters require careful wording to avoid potential disputes