Franco-Swiss cross-border commuters: 85,000 jobs to be filled with salaries of up to 6,500 euros a month

Switzerland, faced with a shortage of skilled workers since 2020The French government plans to hire 85,000 foreign professionals, mainly in the healthcare, tourism, hotel, technical and IT sectors, with salaries ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 euros. This shortfall could reach 365,000 workers by the end of the year. Candidates can apply via Swiss recruitment agencies, and the most sought-after positions include doctors, IT specialists, teachers and engineers. Workers residing in France can opt for "frontalier" status thanks to the G permit, benefiting from tax and social security advantages. However, success in Switzerland requires fluency in local languages, understanding of cultural norms, recognition of diplomas and a high degree of adaptability.

A glaring lack of specialized skills

The skills crisis in Switzerland is not a new phenomenon, but it has intensified in recent years. The country finds itself in a paradoxical situation: despite having one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, it suffers from a shortage of skilled workers in key sectors. This shortage, currently estimated at 85,000, could worsen to around 365,000 workers by the end of the year, according to the Swiss authorities. This situation is partly explained by an ageing population and rapid digitization, which is transforming the labor market, creating a demand for new skills that the local labor market is struggling to provide.

Sectors in short supply: healthcare, tourism, IT, etc.

Demand is particularly strong in the healthcare, tourism, hospitality, technology and engineering sectors. With a significant proportion of doctors approaching retirement age, the health sector Switzerland is in urgent need of new faces. At the same time, the country is a hub of innovation, particularly in IT and finance, creating a constant demand for IT professionals and engineers.

Switzerland, with its flourishing tourism and world-class services, has a permanent need for professionals in the hotel and catering industries. The current crisis between Russia and Ukraine has also seen an influx of refugees, but this has not been enough to fill the gaps in these specialized sectors.

Wages and benefits of working in Switzerland

In terms of remuneration, Switzerland clearly stands out. Salaries for these roles start at 3,500 euros per month, but can rise to as much as 6,500 euros, depending on experience and qualifications. This, combined with the country's high quality of life, excellent infrastructure and natural beauty, makes Switzerland an extremely attractive destination for international workers.

The application process: strategies and points to consider

For international workers, it is advisable to initiate the job search process by contacting Swiss recruitment agencies directly. Companies like Adecco have a strong presence in Switzerland and are well placed to help candidates navigate the Swiss job market. Specialized job boards and professional networks such as LinkedIn are also valuable resources.

As Switzerland is a multilingual country with four official languages - German, French, Italian and Romansh - proficiency in one of these languages, particularly German or French, is often a necessity, depending on the region where you plan to work. In addition to language skills, candidates must be prepared to adapt to a multicultural working environment and respect Swiss cultural nuances, which emphasize punctuality, precision and autonomy.

Frontier worker status

For those based in France or planning to live in France while working in Switzerland, frontier worker status is a viable option thanks to bilateral agreements between the two countries. This status allows individuals to work in Switzerland while residing in France, enjoying certain benefits such as the ability to maintain the French cost of living while earning a Swiss salary. Cross-border workers must obtain a special work permit, known as a Permit G, and comply with certain specific conditions regarding health insurance, family allowances, pensions and unemployment insurance.

It's important to note that tax rules can vary considerably depending on which Swiss canton you work in, and how much time you spend in Switzerland or France. In general, taxes in Switzerland are lower than in France, which can be an additional financial advantage.

Preparing for integration in Switzerland: cultural skills and validation of qualifications

Successfully integrating into Swiss society requires more than mastering a language or possessing professional skills. It's crucial to understand and respect the cultural and professional differences between France and Switzerland. The Swiss, for example, value punctuality, discretion, respect for privacy and independence in the workplace.

For those who have obtained their qualifications in France, it may be necessary to go through a diploma recognition process. This may involve submitting your qualifications to the Swiss certification body for verification and equivalence, a process that can take time and careful planning.

Living in Switzerland: what you need to know

Before taking the plunge, it's essential to find out about living conditions in Switzerland. Although the country is known for its high quality of life, the cost of living is also considerably higher than in France or many other countries. Living expenses, including housing, food, healthcare and transportation, can be high, but are often offset by higher salaries.

Switzerland offers an exceptionally safe and clean environment, excellent public infrastructure, high quality education, and one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Expatriates in Switzerland also enjoy an excellent quality of life, with easy access to a variety of leisure and cultural activities, stunning natural scenery, and geographical proximity to several European countries.

Tips for finding a job in Switzerland

To maximize your chances of success in your transition to the Swiss job market, here are a few practical tips:

1. Professional network : Use platforms like LinkedIn to establish business contacts in Switzerland. Attend events or trade shows related to your industry can also help you connect with potential employers.
2. Learning the language : Even if you're already proficient in French or German, it may be worth taking a refresher course, especially to familiarize yourself with the specificities of the Swiss dialect.
3. Understanding the market : Research your specific industry in Switzerland. Knowing current market trends and in-demand skills can give you a competitive edge.
4. Cultural preparation : Be prepared to immerse yourself in Swiss culture. Reading up on local customs, taking part in community events, and striving to establish social ties can greatly facilitate your adaptation.
5. Professional consulting : Consider consulting local career advisors or recruiters who are familiar with the Swiss job market. They can offer valuable advice and help you navigate the application process.