Switzerland
Location
6-18 months
Duration
18-35
Age
Youth Mobility Visa
Visa
Year-round
Dates

Gain international work experience!

Hospitality in Switzerland

Discover Switzerland while building your career in hospitality! Go International and our trusted partners in Switzerland are offering Canadian youth placements in renowned 4 and 5-star hotels in major tourist cities and holiday destinations. Experience the unique combination of holiday and business destination and gain valuable experience in an international environment. Get ready to start your adventure in Switzerland!

ADVANTAGES OF THE HOSPITALITY IN SWITZERLAND PROGRAM:

You will receive guidance on all applicants personally step-by-step through the process and is also available during the stay in Switzerland.

The employers we work with complies with the minimum wage in accordance with Swiss law and/or the collective labour agreement (CLA).

Appropriate accommodation is provided or organized in advance for the employee.

Statutory working conditions are complied with and employees are insured by the employer in the event of an accident.

Deductions are made from the gross salary for social insurance and pension plan. Employers have to report this on the monthly pay slip.

Why is Switzerland an interesting place to work?

As a Canadian professional in the hospitality industry, Switzerland offers an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your career while experiencing one of the world’s most desirable destinations. Renowned for its exceptional quality of life, breathtaking landscapes, and multicultural charm, Switzerland is the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally. With a thriving hospitality sector built on a reputation for excellence and world-class service, working in Switzerland allows you to gain valuable experience, refine your skills, and set yourself apart in a competitive industry. Enjoy strong earning potential, a healthy work-life balance, and the chance to work within a highly developed economy supported by first-class infrastructure. Whether it’s the majestic Alps, serene lakes, or charming cities, Switzerland offers an inspiring backdrop for both work and adventure. Take your career to new heights while embracing a life of professional growth, cultural discovery, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Europe.

Read more about how you can boost your career with a working holiday abroad.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE

Job placements are in the hospitality industry in locations all over the country (most in German speaking part). The host employer is typically a 4 or 5 star hotel, restaurant, kitchen, and bar. Positions can range from trainee/interns to wait staff, front office or chefs

  • Full-time 42.5 hours per week positions – 8.5 hours per day
  • 5 days of work per week, 2 days off per week
  • Staff accommodation provided by host – shared with other interns and staff
  • Accommodation located in the hotel or in the area of the host
  • All meals provided during work shift from the hotel
  • Paid at least minimum wage in Switzerland

*Please note that some conditions may differ according to the placement.

Ready to embark on an adventure in Switzerland while gaining valuable international work experience? Book the program now and start exploring the world!

Application and documents review

Interview with our Swiss partners and open feedback for preparation

Interviews with potential employers

Contract preparation

Assistance with visa application – the application will be filled out by the employer and participants will just need to sign it

Organization of health insurance before arriving

Travel plan from airport to hotel

Assistance with SIM card and bank account setup

Assistance during stay in Switzerland

* Accommodation and meals during shift will be deducted from salary

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What’s not included:

Flights and other travel costs

Registration at the local immigration office (about 20-30 CHF – approx. up to CA$50)

Personal expenses

Travel health insurance (mandatory)

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM:

  • Be eligible for the Switzerland Youth Mobility Program work permit (working holiday) visa
  • Be between 18 to 35 years old at the start of the program
  • Currently studying or completed professional training in hospitality
  • Have at least B1 language level in English, German, or French
  • Be motivated and committed
  • Having a driving license is not mandatory, but it can be a benefit for some employers

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TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SWISS YOUTH MOBILITY (WORKING HOLIDAY) VISA:

  • Be a Canadian citizen with a valid Canadian passport
  • Be between 18 and 35 years of age (inclusive) at the time of application
  • Have a permanent address in Canada when applying

** Note: Canadians can stay in Switzerland for up to 12 months. You can participate in the Switzerland Youth Mobility Program twice. The maximum duration of both participations must be less than 18 months.

Job placements are in different locations throughout Switzerland. It is important for the applicant to be flexible with placement locations.

Some of the potential types of work include culinary arts, food & beverage, front desk, service/waiting staff, barkeeper, event management & marketing, HR & administration.

Canadians can stay for up to 12 months and can participate in the youth mobility program twice. For the Hospitality in Switzerland program, the duration range is from 6 to 18 months with shorter stays available upon request.

English is widely spoken in the Swiss hospitality industry. We require our participants to have at least B1 level in English, German or French. Your experience would be enhanced by picking up at least some basic phrases of the official Swiss languages before traveling.

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