The Trial Period (Probezeit / Temps d'essai)
The first month of a contract for an indefinite period is always considered a trial period by law, unless the contract specifies otherwise. This period may be extended in writing up to a maximum of three months.
During this time, both parties can cancel the contract with seven days' notice (natural) and it is not necessary to provide further justification.
Notice Periods (Kündigungsfrist / Délai de congé)
Once the trial period has passed, the legal deadlines or those agreed by written contract (or CCT) apply. According to the Code of Obligations, the general framework is:
- 1st year of service: 1 month (cancellation by end of month).
- From the 2nd to the 9th year of service: 2 months (cancellation by the end of the month).
- From the 10th year of service: 3 months (cancellation by the end of the month).
Important: The notice must always reach your boss BEFORE the last working day of the month so that it can begin counting for the following month.