What does "regulated profession" mean?
- Regulated professional activities are defined as activities that can only be legally carried out by holders of a specific qualification.
- In Switzerland, many regulated professional activities (e.g. in the health care field) fall within the scope of cantonal legislation. However, there are also a number of professional activities that are regulated under federal legislation.
Where can I find out whether a profession is regulated or not?
- In the following list you will find the regulated professions and the competent recognition authorities: List of regulated professional activities in Switzerland (PDF, 617 kB, 13.09.2023)
What do I have to pay attention to if I hold a foreign diploma?
- If you wish to carry out a regulated profession in Switzerland, you must have your foreign diploma recognised in order to be allowed to work.
In this case, you must contact the authority responsible for recognition directly: Competent Recognition Authorities
What is the procedure if the profession is not regulated?
- If the profession is not regulated, no recognition is required and you can work directly in Switzerland on the basis of your foreign qualification.
- For some professions, however, it is possible to voluntarily apply for a level certificate or a recognition from SERI (Holders of a Vocational or Professional Qualification) or a recommendation of recognition from Swiss ENIC (Tertiary-level).