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

The essentials first

1You don't need a prescribed qualification - but a first-aid course, languages and experience clearly raise your pay.
2The market rate for a nanny is CHF 25-40+/h gross, depending on experience, qualification and canton.
3Swiss and EU/EFTA citizens can work freely; from a non-EU country you need a work permit.
4Never get hired off the books: only registered work earns you pension, accident cover, unemployment rights 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.

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