Employment reference: nature, duration, performance and conduct
Updated on October 24, 2026
Article 330a of the Code of Obligations lets the employee require at any time a reference on the nature and duration of the employment and, if requested, on the quality of the work and conduct. The reference must be true and fair. At the employee's express request it covers only nature and duration. The employer issues it in writing.
When to ask
The right exists during the contract and after it ends. An employment reference is not a salary certificate for social insurance. The statutory text is article 330a CO on Fedlex.