International students should not expect to find work in Switzerland

Even internships are hard to access for those from outside the EU. Keystone

After multiple rejections, Gaurav has reconciled himself to the fact that, barring a miracle, he will not find a job in Switzerland.

Most Indians when applying to a university in Europe or North America think about finding a job there after their studies and perhaps settling down there. To be honest, I also had the same thoughts. Those who say that they want to go back to their country must be lying. But after living in Switzerland and experiencing the reality of finding a job, I feel it is better not to expect anything when it comes to job prospects.

Switzerland is a European country but is not in the European Union (EU). Most of the trade and services in Switzerland are tied to the EU. Hence, Switzerland has many bilateral agreements with the block, including freedom of movement and work. Due to this many EU citizens come to Switzerland in order to enjoy a high standard of living and higher salaries. This is not possible for those outside the EU, like Indians for example. The extra paperwork required, including proving that no Swiss or EU citizen could be employed for the role, greatly diminishes any interest in job applications sent by non-EU citizens.

I have applied to countless jobs, but when most of the recruiters realise that I am not a European citizen, they usually don’t reply. Those that do state that “unfortunately, they cannot proceed with my application as they found someone better”. This phrase will be the most common one encountered by non-EU applicants when they do get a response from the recruiter.

Personally, I do not apply for any random job. If I find the job is suitable for me and the advertisement corresponds with my profile only then do I proceed with an application. Sometimes, it is hard to believe that the company found so many people better than me and I did not even get a chance to be interviewed. It is heartbreaking but it is the reality.

This kind of rejection is not just for permanent jobs but is true even for an internship. Most companies prefer to have an intern who can become a permanent employee after finishing studies. Since the procedure for applying for a work permit for a non-EU citizen is a lengthy and tedious process many prefer not to proceed with such internship applications.

Sometimes, I feel that the people working in some reputed companies do not even deserve to be there. This feeling was triggered by an incident when I was looking for an internship after finishing the first year of my Master in Finance course. I was curious to know if a local bank in Neuchâtel offers internships for students. As I couldn’t find the contact details of their human resources department, I sent an email to general inquiries. Instead of shedding light on their internship programme I received information about how to open a bank account!

A screenshot of the bank’s response asking me to furnish documents to open a bank account. Gaurav Singh

If you are coming to Switzerland to study then come with the intention of getting an education. If you expect more, you will be disappointed.

For more blog posts and information on studying in Switzerland visit our dedicated page Education Swiss Made.