Professional licences

For some professions and for certain businesses, the federal government or the cantons impose rules. Such cases require a special permit or a patent or licence. This applies to activities for:

• Banks, insurance companies and investment brokers
• Hotels and restaurants (only in certain cantons)
• Physicians, dentists, pharmacists and attorneys
• Certain mercantile and services businesses (e.g. wine merchants, private employment agencies, temporary employment services)

Foreign nationals can perform these activities in Switzerland, if they have the required permits. In certain cases, approval is subject to a “demonstration of need” clause. Since the bilateral agreements with the EU have been enforced, the rules are gradually being eased, thanks to the mutual recognition of professional qualifications.