Jurilo from Lawise.ai:
Anyone who becomes unemployed in Switzerland is generally entitled to unemployment benefits (ALV). However, this entitlement is not unconditional: those who violate obligations or are at fault for their own unemployment must expect a so-called suspension period. During this time, no daily benefits are paid – which can lead to significant financial losses. In this article, you will learn when the RAV imposes a suspension period, how long it lasts, and how you can appeal against it.
WHAT IS A SUSPENSION PERIOD?
The suspension period (also: suspension days) is a sanction from the unemployment insurance. It means that the payment of daily benefits is suspended for a certain number of days. The suspension period is not a penalty in the criminal sense, but an insurance law measure to enforce cooperation obligations.
Legal basis:
Art. 30 AVIG (Unemployment Insurance Act)
Art. 45 AVIV (Ordinance on the AVIG)
The suspension period is also referred to as suspension days.
REASONS FOR A SUSPENSION PERIOD
The most common reasons for a suspension period are:
1. Self-inflicted unemployment
Example:
Voluntary resignation without valid reason
Summary dismissal due to gross misconduct
Termination agreement without compelling reason
→ Suspension period: 1 to 60 days
2. Violation of reporting obligations
Example:
Failure to register with the RAV on time
Late submission of forms
→ Suspension period: 1 to 15 days
3. Unreasonable behavior in job searching
Example:
No or too few job applications
Rejection of reasonable job offers
Failure to attend job interviews
→ Suspension period: 5 to 25 days
4. Refusal of reasonable work or measures
Example:
Rejection of an assigned placement
Termination of a temporary employment program
Refusal of a further training measure
→ Suspension period: 5 to 25 days
5. Violation of control regulations
Example:
Failure to attend RAV appointments
Missing proof of job application efforts
→ Suspension period: 1 to 15 days
DURATION OF THE SUSPENSION PERIOD
The duration depends on the severity of the fault:
minor fault: 1–15 days
moderate fault: 16–30 days
serious fault: 31–60 days
In case of repeated violations, the suspension period can be extended or the entitlement can be cancelled entirely.
CONSEQUENCES OF THE SUSPENSION PERIOD
No daily benefits during the suspension period
Reduction of the maximum benefit period
Financial difficulties
Delay in pension or pension fund contributions
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A SUSPENSION PERIOD?
Review the justification for the suspension period
Submit a statement
File an objection against the decision (within 30 days)
Seek legal advice
CONCLUSION
The suspension period is a central risk in connection with unemployment insurance. Those who do not fulfill their obligations towards the RAV or are at fault for their own unemployment must expect significant benefit reductions. It is therefore all the more important to know the rules, act correctly, and seek legal advice in case of doubt.
👉 Are you facing a suspension period at the RAV?
Jurilo reviews your situation according to Swiss law – structured & legally sound.
👉 See also: Termination in Switzerland – how much money do I lose or gain?
👉 Related: Termination during pregnancy & maternity – suspension period
👉 Basics: Termination by employer vs. employee – Switzerland
FAQ ON SUSPENSION PERIODS AT THE RAV
What is a suspension period at the RAV?
A suspension period means that you do not receive unemployment daily benefits for a certain number of days – e.g. due to voluntary resignation or violation of obligations.
How long does a suspension period last?
Depending on the degree of fault, between 1 and 60 days. In case of serious or repeated violations, the entitlement can be cancelled entirely.
What happens if I resign myself?
If you resign without a valid reason, this is considered self-inflicted unemployment. The RAV can impose a suspension period of up to 60 days.
What is a valid reason for voluntary resignation?
For example: mobbing, health reasons, unreasonable working conditions – if proven. The RAV reviews each case individually.
Do I have to register with the RAV immediately?
Yes. At the latest on the first day of unemployment. Late registration can result in a suspension period of up to 15 days.
How many job applications do I have to make per month?
This depends on the RAV. Usually, 4–10 applications per month are expected. Too few applications can trigger a suspension period.
What happens if I reject a reasonable job?
Rejecting a reasonable job is considered a violation of obligations and can result in a suspension period of 5 to 25 days.
Can I appeal against a suspension period?
Yes. You can file an objection against the decision within 30 days. A justification and evidence are important.
Is the suspension period counted towards the maximum benefit period?
No. The suspension period reduces the number of maximum available daily benefits. So you effectively lose money.
What happens with repeated suspension periods?
In case of multiple violations, the RAV can cancel the entitlement to daily benefits entirely. In serious cases, complete exclusion from unemployment insurance is possible.
