What are waiting period days?
Entitlement to unemployment benefit generally begins only after a waiting period. You have to live on your own money for a fixed number of days. Those who earn more have to wait longer, and those who care for children under 25 wait less.
| Insured earnings (also valid for flat rate) | General waiting days without children | General waiting days with children |
|---|---|---|
| up to 3000 francs | 0 | 0 |
| 3001-5000 francs | 5 | 0 |
| 5001-7500 francs | 10 | 5 |
| 7501-10 416 francs | 15 | 5 |
| from 10,417 francs | 20 | 5 |
Waiting periods for persons exempt from paying contributions
Persons who are exempt from paying contributions due to school education, retraining or further training must complete 120 special waiting days, irrespective of age, maintenance obligations or professional qualification.
In case of cumulation of the reason for exemption school education, retraining or further education with another reason for exemption, 120 special waiting days must also be passed.
The other insured persons who are exempt from paying contributions must complete 5 special waiting days.
In particular, anyone who was unable to work for 12 months because he or she was in education, gave birth to a child, was ill or imprisoned is exempt from the ALV contribution period. Under certain circumstances, special life events may also result in an exemption from the contribution period.
