Staffing/temporary employment agencies

The hiring of staff for a limited amount of time through temporary employment agencies is useful if there is a temporary surge of orders or staff must be replaced at short notice. An hourly wage is agreed between the agency and the client, which is usually 1.4 to 2 times the normal hourly rate. However, only the hours worked must be paid, and all ancillary costs are included. The agency remunerates temporary staff as their employer and is responsible for all social deductions and insurance. The same labour law protections apply as with “traditional” forms of employment. Temporary employment agencies require a cantonal licence in order to operate. They are also required to set aside a significant deposit to cover the claims of their employees. A federal licence and a higher deposit are required to operate abroad.