How Public Holidays Work in Switzerland
Managing leave across Switzerland requires understanding a complex mix of national, regional, and local observances mandated by Federal & Cantonal Law.
2025 Holiday Calendar
Cantons vary significantly. Geneva observes Jeûne genevois (Sep), Zurich observes Sechseläuten. Catholic and Protestant cantons have different religious holidays.
Switzerland Holidays
How Public Holidays Work in Switzerland
Managing leave across Switzerland requires understanding a complex mix of national, regional, and local observances mandated by Federal & Cantonal Law.
August 1st is the only federally mandated holiday. New Year, Ascension, and Christmas are observed in all cantons but set by cantonal law.
Cantons vary significantly. Geneva observes Jeûne genevois (Sep), Zurich observes Sechseläuten. Catholic and Protestant cantons have different religious holidays.
If a holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it is generally lost and not compensated.
Switzerland
National Day
The only federally mandated holiday for the whole country. Celebrates the founding of the Swiss Confederation.
Ascension Day
Always on a Thursday. Observed nationwide though technically set by cantonal law.
Berchtoldstag
Regional holiday widely observed in German-speaking areas. Not a holiday in Geneva or Ticino.
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Rules for work on National Day.
Compensatory time off requirements.
Impact on annual leave balances.
Cross-border team variations.
Are employees compensated if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
If it falls on a non-working day, it is lost. There is no statutory requirement to move it.
What happens if an employee falls ill while on annual leave?
Illness days are not counted as vacation days if proven by a medical certificate.
Are public holidays paid time off?
August 1st is the only federally mandated paid holiday. Cantons designate up to 8 others which are treated as Sundays.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official government sources and legal counsel for compliance matters.