Non-EU/EFTA students

Internships

You need a work permit for an internship.

• A work permit is only possible if the internship is a compulsory part of your studies or if credits can be credited towards your studies. If this is the case, your study administration can issue a confirmation.
• The organization where you would like to complete the internship must apply for a work permit from the Office of Economy (AWI) with the confirmation mentioned above.

Employment

You need a work permit if you want to work in Switzerland.

During the semester, you can take on a paid part-time job of up to 15 hours per week. During the lecture-free period, employment of up to 100% is possible.

• Your employer must apply for a work permit for you at the Office of Economics (AWI).
• This is only possible once you have a residence permit and the waiting period (see grey info box) is over.
• Please contact us via e-mail for a confirmation that the employment does not prolong your studies.

The same rules apply if you take a semester leave of absence or get a residence permit to search for a job after graduation.