Taking time off work with a sabbatical

Sabbatical

Sabbatical. Time for a career break.

New perspectives thanks to a sabbatical

A career break gives you a nice opportunity to consciously reshape your life. You can pursue personal goals and gain new experiences. Interest in taking a career break has increased in Switzerland. A growing number of people are toying with the idea of taking a sabbatical. But if you are to prepare properly, you should be clear about the advantages and disadvantages.

Tips and topics about sabbatical

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Finances and insurance for your time off

Employers offer different models and arrangements. But most sabbaticals are unpaid. You need to think about how you will finance your time off. The topic of insurance can also raise questions. Are you still insured through your employer? What about your retirement provision? And what new risks does independence involve? We will be happy to advise you to ensure you are also fully covered during your career break.

Questions and answers

A sabbatical is a career break.
There are various reasons for taking a sabbatical. During this time, you can pursue personal projects, further your education, travel or simply relieve stress, for example. Taking time off can help stop you from burning out.

The rules and regulations surrounding sabbaticals may be different depending on the employer and the industry. There are a variety of sabbatical models (e.g. a sabbatical year or shorter periods in the form of time off models).
While the leave of absence can be paid or unpaid, only a few employers offer paid sabbaticals.

Sabbatical checklist

Planning and preparation: Find out about the advantages and disadvantages of a taking a sabbatical. Think about how long you would like the sabbatical to last and what goals you would like to achieve.
Consultation with your employer: Ask your employer if they offer a sabbatical scheme. Can you take a paid sabbatical, or are there other sabbatical models in place?
Sabbatical agreement: Since there are no statutory sabbatical regulations in Switzerland, you should put all agreements with your employer in writing. Remember that your employment relationship can still be terminated during a sabbatical.
Financial protection: Since sabbaticals are often unpaid, you should take a careful look at your financial situation beforehand. You need to have enough saved up to cover the time you will not be receiving a wage.
Insurance: Check which insurance policies you need to take out. Health insurance is still compulsory. Both accident insurance and the pension fund are covered by your employer if you are still employed. If you are no longer employed, you should take out appropriate supplementary insurance. Travel or third-party liability insurance may also be useful.
Travel documents: If you would like to travel during your sabbatical, check your travel documents and visa requirements in good time.
Planning your return: Even at the planning stage, think about how you would like to return to your career after the break. Also consider how to positively present the sabbatical on your CV.
Support system: Talk to family and friends about your sabbatical. Get support and advice.