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Key Considerations Before Starting the Search for a Nanny-Housekeeper

Updated: Nov 20



A nanny-housekeeper can skillfully handle both childcare and housekeeping duties, with the focus on each area adjusted according to the client’s preferences.


What is the priority for your family?


  1. A nanny can focus primarily on caring for your children, with household chores as a secondary responsibility.

  2. For a balance between both tasks, remember that childcare should take priority, especially if you have small children, more than one and even more so if you live in a large residence.


Working Conditions:


If you’re looking for a live-in candidate, you may need to consider applicants from other European countries, as candidates already residing in Switzerland have their accommodations.


  • What accommodation will you provide? At a minimum, a live-in nanny should be provided with a private, furnished bedroom, separate from the children’s room. Many live-in nannies also have access to a private bathroom, and in some cases, a separate kitchen and living space. It’s essential that your nanny has privacy during their time off.

  • Above all, it’s crucial that your live-in nanny feels comfortable with the room and board arrangements offered as part of the role.

  • Usually, live-in nannies will share meals with the family, especially if they do not

    have a separate kitchen, and will have access to your food.

  • Specific rules or guidelines within your household: E.g.: Will they have a separate refrigerator, or share food storage in the family kitchen? Will they have access to your washer and dryer for personal laundry? Will she/he be able to use the backyard, pool, or other amenities during their time off?

  • Number of hours per week. Full-time positions in Switzerland are 40-45 hours per week.

  • Overtime: How often do you need assistance during the evenings or maybe on weekends?


 Salary offer:


Hiring a nanny-housekeeper in Switzerland can vary in cost depending on several factors; however, as a ball-point figure, the minimum wage in Geneva in 2024 for a 45 hr week is CHF 4742,4/month gross wage. Families also need to consider the social charges that amount to approximately 15% on top of the gross wage (ie CHF 5200/month total cost). Qualified candidates will usually have higher salary expectations.


These combination roles should reflect a fair balance of responsibilities and appropriate compensation, rather than expecting the full services of two roles for the price of one. Ensuring fair duties and a fair wage helps foster a positive working relationship.


Employer Obligations:


  • Provide an employment contract

  • Register as an employer

  • Pay employer’s social insurance contributions

  • Ensure accident insurance coverage

  • Enrol the employee in a second-pillar pension scheme

  • Deduct taxes if the nanny/housekeeper is liable for source tax (candidates with resident permits B, Temporary or Frontalier)

  • Provide the payslips and the annual salary certificate


If you’re considering a combination position but are unsure of your specific needs, please feel free to reach out. We would be delighted to assist you!







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