Switzerland: 15 High Demand Professions and How to Secure a Work Visa

Calling all skilled professionals! Switzerland faces a significant shortage of skilled workers, creating a lucrative job market for foreign talent. With over 251,000 job vacancies reported in Q4 2023, the country actively seeks to fill positions across various sectors.

This article explores the most sought-after professions, the cities with the highest job openings, and the process of obtaining a Switzerland work visa.

Swiss Labour Market in High Demand

Switzerland’s employers are actively seeking talent across various sectors, but the healthcare, construction, and retail industries are experiencing a significant surge in demand. A whopping 15,790 job opportunities were advertised solely within the healthcare sector, indicating a pressing need for skilled individuals to fill crucial roles.

Sectors with the Highest Demand for Workers

1. Healthcare: Leading the pack is the healthcare sector, boasting 15,790 job openings. Nurses, healthcare specialists, and other medical professionals are in high demand.

2. Construction: The construction industry thrives, offering numerous opportunities for electricians, carpenters, and other skilled tradespeople.

3. Retail and Trade: The retail sector also seeks qualified individuals, including sales advisors, commercial clerks, and logistics specialists.

4. Hospitality and Hotel Industry: This thriving sector offers exciting opportunities in roles like chefs, hotel managers, and event planners.

5. Information Technology: Switzerland’s tech scene is booming, seeking skilled professionals in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

Beyond the top five, Switzerland offers opportunities in various industries, including Automation and AI.

Cities with the Most Job Openings

For those eyeing specific locations within Switzerland, the following cities stand out with the highest number of job openings:

• Zurich: The bustling commercial hub boasts the highest number of job openings (55,113).
• Bern: The federal capital offers a diverse range of job opportunities (37,939).
• Aargau, St. Gallen, and Lucerne: These cities also present promising job prospects (20,350, 18,178, and 17,021 job advertisements, respectively).

15 Most Wanted Professions for Foreign Workers

Here’s a breakdown of the most sought-after professions along with the corresponding number of job vacancies:

1. Care Specialist / Nurse: 6,395 job vacancies
2. Electrician: 6,337 job vacancies
3. Sales Advisor: 4,056 job vacancies
4. Carpenter: 3,337 job vacancies
5. Project Manager: 3,256 job vacancies
6. Software Developer: 3,187 job vacancies
7. Polymechanic: 3,128 job vacancies
8. Healthcare Specialist: 2,625 job vacancies
9. Service Technician: 2,606 job vacancies
10. Commercial Clerk: 2,559 job vacancies
11. Sanitary Installer: 2,541 job vacancies
12. Logistics Specialist: 2,521 job vacancies
13. Automation Specialist: 2,459 job vacancies
14. Retail Trade Specialist: 2,443 job vacancies
15. Cooks: 2,407 job vacancies

Work Permit Quotas for Non-EU Citizens

In a recent announcement, Switzerland has reaffirmed its decision to uphold work permit quotas for non-EU/EFTA citizens throughout 2024. This decision enables the recruitment of up to 8,500 skilled specialists from regions beyond the European Union and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

Securing a Switzerland Work Visa

For those considering relocating to Switzerland for work, understanding the visa requirements is essential. Switzerland offers various types of visas for foreign workers, including the Swiss Work Visa.

This visa allows individuals to reside and work in Switzerland for a specified period, typically tied to their employment contract. To apply for a Swiss Work Visa, applicants must have a valid job offer from a Swiss employer and meet specific criteria set by the Swiss authorities.

The application process involves:

1. Finding an employer: Secure a job offer from a Swiss company willing to sponsor your visa.
2. Obtaining a work permit: Apply for a work permit through the relevant cantonal migration office.
3. Applying for a visa: Once the work permit is granted, apply for a visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.

Must Read: Switzerland to Ease Work Permit Procedures for Third-Country Citizens

Conclusion

In conclusion, Switzerland presents a wealth of opportunities for foreign workers across diverse sectors, with job vacancies spanning from bustling urban centres to serene countryside locales.

As the country continues to grapple with an impending workforce shortage, the door remains wide open for skilled professionals seeking to embark on a new chapter in their careers amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland.