Unemployed: registering with the RAV

You have no work or will lose it soon? Register quickly with the RAV. Here you see how this works.

The RAV (regional employment centre, Regionales Arbeitsvermittlungszentrum) helps you look for a job. It is also the way to unemployment insurance (Arbeitslosenversicherung, ALV). Register early.

When?

Register as soon as you have your notice of termination. At the latest on the first day for which you claim money.

This is how you register

  • Online in the Job-Room (job-room.ch), eService "Anmeldung zur Arbeitsvermittlung".
  • Or in person at the RAV at your place of residence.

You need your AHV number. It is on your health insurance card.

The first meeting

Within 15 days the RAV invites you to a meeting. Bring:

  • Health insurance card or AHV card
  • Passport, ID or foreign national permit (Ausländerausweis)
  • Proof of your job applications (Arbeitsbemühungen)

Do I get money?

You may get unemployment benefits (Taggelder). One rule: 12 months of work in the last 2 years.

Your permit also plays a role. The unemployment insurance fund (Arbeitslosenkasse) checks this.

Your duties

You must actively apply for jobs. You show your applications to the RAV regularly. You go to all appointments.

Without applications the RAV can stop the money.

What you can do now

  1. Register immediately: online in the Job-Room or at the RAV.
  2. Start collecting applications now. Write down every one.
  3. Bring your permit, health insurance card and list of applications to the meeting.
  4. Questions about your permit? Ask FABIA or the Amt für Migration.

arbeit.swiss (SECO), Anmeldung und Registrierung beim RAV (2026-09-21)

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