August 2024: 9 Important Changes for Expats in Switzerland

August is here, and there are several changes you should know about in Switzerland. Here’s a simple guide to what’s happening:

1. Train Disruptions

In August, train travel in Switzerland might be difficult because of maintenance and repairs. Expect delays, cancellations, and bus replacements on many routes. Problems will be particularly bad on:

• The route between Vaud and Valais (July 22 – August 14)
• The route between Geneva Airport and Lausanne (until August 19)
• The route between Montreux and Villeneuve (until August 14)
• Routes between Zurich and Stuttgart
• Routes between Domodossola and Milan
• Routes between Basel and Karlsruhe

2. Lower Interest Rates

Swiss banks are lowering the interest rates they offer on savings accounts. After the Swiss National Bank reduced its key interest rate in June, banks like Migros Bank, Hypothekarbank Lenzburg, Zuger Kantonalbank, and Owaldner Kantonalbank are following suit. The Raiffeisen group has also recommended rate cuts to its banks.

3. Instant Money Transfers

Starting August 20, 2024, you’ll be able to send money instantly between banks. Transfers should take less than 10 seconds, even on weekends. UBS, Raiffeisen, Berner Kantonalbank, and Hypothekarbank Lenzburg will offer this service.

4. Changes in Gymnasium Curriculum

Starting this August, Gymnasium schools in Switzerland will have new rules. Students will need to study for four years before getting their leaving certificate. The focus will be on stronger math and language teaching, with new subjects like economics, law, and computer science added.

5. VBZ Drivers Can Listen to Music

From August 1, VBZ, Zurich’s public transport company, will allow its train, tram, and bus drivers to listen to music while working. Music must be at a low volume and not include too much talking, like podcasts. This change aims to attract more drivers.

6. Longer Short-Time Work Entitlement

The maximum time for short-time work compensation, which helps cover lost wages during reduced working hours, will increase from 12 to 18 months starting August 1, 2024. This change is due to high energy costs and ongoing strain in various sectors. The new entitlement lasts until July 31, 2025.

7. Higher Wages for Apprentices

From August 1, apprentices in Canton Aargau will earn more. In their first year, they will receive 820 francs per month, increasing to 1,700 francs in the fourth year. Hourly wages for temporary workers will also go up to 20 francs. Coop will also raise apprentices’ wages, with increases from 100 euros to 1,600 francs depending on the year of training.

8. Swiss National Day

August 1 is Swiss National Day, celebrating 733 years since Switzerland’s foundation. It’s a public holiday with official ceremonies, fireworks, and local parades.

9. Back to School

August means the end of the school holidays. Children will return to school between August 9 and 25, depending on the canton. Roads and public transport might be busy as families return home. The next school break will be the two-week autumn holiday in October.