First job in Switzerland: what is on your payslip
Updated: 30.10.2026
Your first Swiss payslip is full of abbreviations. Here is what they mean, and why your net pay at 22 can be higher than at 26.
The main items
- AHV/IV/EO 5.3%: old-age and survivors', disability and income compensation insurance.
- ALV 1.1%: unemployment insurance.
- BVG: pension fund. Retirement savings start on 1 January after your 24th birthday; you are covered from an annual salary of CHF 22'680.
- NBU: accidents in your free time, deducted if you work at least 8 hours a week for the same employer.
- Withholding tax: only without a C settlement permit (for example a B permit).
Example: CHF 4'500 × 12, NBU 1.2%
All results are non-binding estimates without guarantee. The statements of your employer, insurer and the authorities prevail.
| Net per month at 22 (no BVG savings) | CHF 4'158 |
|---|---|
| Net per month at 26 | CHF 4'077.67 |
| Difference: BVG savings per month | CHF 80.33 |
The BVG money is not lost: it goes into your retirement account. Before 25 many funds still charge a small risk premium, which the calculator does not include.
Check in your first month
- Does the gross match your contract (12 or 13 salary payments)?
- Family allowances, if you have children, are paid on top.
- With a B permit: does the withholding tax code match your situation?