COVID-19: Hardship Indemnities From The Unemployment Insurance In Case Of Temporary Decrease Of The Workload Of Companies

On March 13, 2020 and March 16, 2020, the Swiss Federal Council took the decision to introduce more stringent measures to protect the public against the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) and complete the measures already decided on February 28, 2020.

As a result, all shops (except for food stores and healthcare institutions), markets, restaurants, bars and entertainment and leisure facilities will remain closed until at least April 19, 2020 (businesses at which the recommended distance between persons cannot be maintained are also affected). All public and private events are prohibited and the schools, high schools, universities and other training centers are closed. People at high risk should work from home (if not possible, they are to be released from the obligation to perform work but will continue to receive their salary), while for other employees, home office is recommended to the extent possible. Travel restrictions have also been introduced.