The Reference Release Form is a crucial document in Swiss employment practices, designed to facilitate the secure and compliant sharing of employment references. This document becomes necessary when current or former employees seek references for new employment opportunities, academic applications, or professional certifications. The form must comply with Swiss federal data protection laws and the Swiss Code of Obligations, particularly regarding employment references and personal data handling. It typically includes specific permissions for sharing employment history, performance information, and professional assessments while protecting the reference provider from potential liability claims. Reference Release Forms are especially important in Switzerland's professional environment, where detailed employment references are a standard part of the hiring process and are subject to strict legal requirements regarding accuracy and objectivity.

1. Identification of Parties: Details of the reference provider (current/former employer) and the person giving consent for the reference

2. Purpose of Release: Clear statement of the purpose for which the reference may be provided and used

3. Scope of Authorization: Specific information that may be disclosed in the reference, including performance, duties, dates of employment, etc.

4. Duration of Authorization: Time period for which the release authorization remains valid

5. Data Protection Notice: Statement regarding handling of personal data in compliance with Swiss Federal Data Protection Act

6. Release of Liability: Statement releasing the reference provider from claims arising from providing the reference

7. Signature Block: Space for dated signatures of all parties