For aspiring nannies

Become a nanny in Switzerland: your step-by-step start

Love kids and want to work as a nanny in Switzerland? This isn't a long theory piece - it's a concrete action plan: 6 steps from idea to your first fairly paid, properly registered job. Tick off each step as you complete it.

Reading time: 6 min · Last updated: June 2026

In short

You can become a nanny in Switzerland without any prescribed qualification: sort out your permit, know the market rate of CHF 25-40+/h gross and have the family register you correctly - the 6 steps below take you to your first job.

No qualification required - a first-aid course, languages and experience raise your pay
Swiss and EU/EFTA citizens can work freely; from a non-EU country you need a permit
Only registered work gives you pension, accident cover, unemployment and a reference

Your action plan

Most guides explain what the job is like. This one shows you what to do now. Work through the 6 steps in order - each one brings you closer to your first nanny job.

Your path to becoming a nanny in Switzerland - in 6 steps

Tick off each step as you complete it. Your progress fills up as you go.

0 of 6 steps done0%

Before you talk money, look at what nannies earn in Switzerland - CHF 25-40+/h depending on experience and canton. You'll walk into every conversation with confidence and avoid being hired below your value.
See what nannies earn →

What can you earn?

Before you walk into a conversation, know the numbers. A full-time nanny earns roughly CHF 3,800-6,500 gross/month, or CHF 25-40+/h hourly. With experience, a first-aid course or training you reach the top end - and cantons like Geneva, Zug and Zurich pay the most.

Full salary benchmark with canton ranking →

Your first message to a family

Meier

online

Hello Mrs Meier, I'm just starting out as a nanny and looking for a family to gain experience with. I'm patient, reliable and have done a first-aid course. I'd be happy to help in the afternoons. May I introduce myself?

13:15

Hello! How nice, yes. We're looking for someone for two afternoons. Would you like to come by?

13:40

I'd love to! Just tell me when suits you and I'll fit around it. Thank you for the chance!

13:43

Message

You have rights - know them

As an employed nanny you're entitled to at least 4 weeks of holiday, continued pay during illness, notice periods and a holiday supplement on hourly pay. The NAV Hauswirtschaft sets the floor at CHF 20.35/h. Insist on a written contract before you start.

Tell your family how easy registration is

With Clino your employer family registers you correctly, runs the payroll and takes care of OASI and insurance - for CHF 19.90/month. So you're covered from day one.

Discover Clino

Frequently asked questions

Do I need training to become a nanny?

No specific training is required. But families look for experience, a first-aid course and language skills. A childcare qualification (e.g. FaBe) or a Swiss Nanny Association course noticeably increases trust and pay.

Do I need a work permit?

Swiss citizens and nationals of EU/EFTA states can work as a nanny without further ado. Anyone from a non-EU country needs a valid residence and work permit. Either way you need an OASI (AHV) number - the family registers you with the compensation office.

How do I find families looking for a nanny?

Through referrals in your circle, parent and neighbourhood groups, notice boards at daycares and playgroups, and reputable matching platforms. A short, honest profile with your experience, availability and languages helps a lot - and referrals from happy families open the most doors.

What should be in my employment contract?

Wage (hourly or monthly), working hours and workload, holiday entitlement (min. 4 weeks), sickness arrangements, notice periods and any expenses. Put everything in writing - a contract protects both sides.

Why shouldn't I just get paid cash?

Because off-the-books work costs you dearly: no OASI contributions (= less pension), no accident cover, no unemployment entitlement and no official reference. Registered correctly, you're protected - and the family can handle it with Clino in minutes.

Sources

SECO - standard employment contract (NAV) for household services, 2026 minimum wages
Swiss Nanny Association - profession and salary recommendation: swissnanny.org
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) - working in Switzerland, permits

As of 2026. Wages, minimum wages and permit rules are adjusted periodically.

Keep reading

New

Get employed legally, without the awkward conversation

We prepare your personal employment pack and send it to your employer in their language. Free.

+ CHF 50 for you when they register you

Create your pack (2 min)