Switzerland often shows up on lists of the world’s best places to work. Clean cities, strong labour laws, high wages. For nannies, though, the reality is more nuanced. Work culture here is structured, respectful and regulated, but it also comes with expectations that can surprise newcomers.

This guide breaks down what nanny work in Switzerland really looks like. Contracts. Pay. Benefits. And the quiet rules that shape daily life in a Swiss household.

A Culture Built on Structure and Trust

Swiss work culture values order. That carries directly into private households.

Families expect punctuality, discretion, and consistency. In return, professional nannies are treated as employees, not informal help. Verbal agreements are rare. Everything matters on paper.

Experienced nannies in Switzerland often say the same thing. Once expectations are clear, work becomes calm and predictable. That sense of structure is one reason many stay long-term.

Contracts Are Not Optional

A written contract is standard for live-in and live-out roles alike.

Most contracts include:

· Weekly working hours and exact schedule

· Gross monthly salary

· Overtime rules

· Paid holiday entitlement

· Sick leave terms

· Notice period for both sides

Cantonal regulations apply, but many families follow the Swiss Domestic Workers Ordinance as a baseline. Agencies usually tend to go the extra mile by safeguarding the two parties.

Newborn care specialist Switzerland roles usually include additional clauses. Night shifts, on-call hours, sleep arrangements and recovery days are spelt out clearly. This avoids misunderstandings during an already intense phase for families.

A quick note from practice. Contracts that look “too simple” usually cause the most trouble later. Detailed is better. Always.

Pay Expectations and Reality

Switzerland pays well compared to most countries. That does not mean every offer is fair.

Rates vary by:

· Canton

· Experience level

· Live-in vs live-out

· Number of children

· Specialised skills

As a rough guide:

· Junior nannies often start around CHF 25 per hour

· Experienced nannies in Switzerland who hire long-term earn CHF 30 to 40 per hour

· Newborn care specialist Switzerland roles may reach CHF 45 per hour or more

Live-in roles usually offer lower hourly pay, but housing and meals are included. Some also cover transport, health insurance contributions, or language courses.

Always check if the salary is gross or net. Swiss deductions matter.

Working Hours and Overtime

Standard working weeks range from 40 to 45 hours.

Overtime is common, especially with young children. Swiss culture does not reward unspoken extra work. Hours should be tracked. Compensation should follow the contract.

Many families prefer time off in lieu rather than cash. That works well when agreed in advance. Problems start when overtime becomes “just part of the job”. In Switzerland, it should never be.

Benefits That Actually Exist

Paid holidays are protected by law. At least four weeks per year. Five weeks is common for full-time nannies.

Other benefits often include:

· Paid public holidays

· Sick leave with a medical certificate

· Accident insurance

· Pension contributions for long-term roles

Maternity nurses and newborn specialists sometimes work on fixed-term contracts. Benefits still apply, just structured differently.

One detail many newcomers miss. Accident insurance is mandatory. Any family that avoids it is cutting corners.

Professional Boundaries Matter

Swiss families value warmth, but also boundaries. Nannies are trusted professionals, not extended family. That can feel distant at first. Over time, many nannies appreciate the clarity.

Clear schedules. Clear responsibilities. Respect for privacy on both sides.

This balance creates stability. Especially important for experienced nannies, Switzerland households rely on them for years.

Practical Advice Before Accepting a Role

A short checklist from real placements:

· Read every line of the contract

· Ask how overtime is handled in practice

· Clarify travel expectations

· Confirm insurance coverage

· Check notice periods carefully

If something feels vague, it usually is.

Why Switzerland Attracts Career Nannies

The work culture is not flashy. It is solid. Reliable pay. Legal protection. Professional respect. Families who plan and value quality care.

For those building a long-term childcare career, Switzerland offers something rare. Stability without stagnation.

A Professional Childcare System That Works

Working as a nanny in Switzerland means stepping into a culture that values precision, fairness, and mutual respect. Contracts protect. Pay reflects responsibility.

This organisation suits nannies who consider professionalism and families which require reliable care, and when supported by an experienced agency like Luna Nannies, it works even better.