Many people assume that, in Switzerland, unemployment insurance works the same way whether you are made redundant or you decide to leave of your own accord. It does not work the same way. If you resign voluntarily without a reason recognised as valid by law, the LACI – the federal law on unemployment insurance – provides for a suspension of your entitlement to benefits. In practice, this is usually between 5 and 8 weeks. Weeks during which you no longer receive a salary and you do not receive unemployment benefit either. This means you are left with nothing during that time.
The reasons the law considers valid for reducing or avoiding this penalty include situations such as serious and documented workplace bullying, health problems certified by a doctor, or a move to another canton due to a spouse’s circumstances. Being fed up, having a better job offer, or simply needing a change do not count. Unemployment insurance is intended to cover those who lose their jobs, not those who leave them. And this has very specific consequences if you do not take it into account before signing your letter of resignation.
The comparison with Spain is relevant: there, if you leave voluntarily, you are simply not entitled to the benefit. In Switzerland, the entitlement exists, but it is subject to penalties. It is a significant difference, but it does not eliminate the real cost of several months without an income. Some people only realise this once they’ve already left, once they’ve used up their savings and when the benefits finally arrive – but too late.
A practical tip: before you leave, register with the RAV or ORP – your canton’s jobcentre – even before you leave your job. You can discuss your specific situation, check whether there are any grounds recognised by law, and avoid receiving the maximum penalty. Doing this afterwards, when you no longer have an income, is much more complicated.