How long do I have to make a claim in Switzerland?
General limitation rules in Switzerland. Indicative only: exceptions, suspensions and recent reforms are common, so confirm your deadline with a lawyer.
- Contract claims
- 5–10 years. General period 10 years; many periodic and trade claims 5 years.
- Non-contractual damages (tort)
- 3 years (from knowledge). 3 years from knowledge, 10-year long-stop (20 for bodily injury).
- Personal injury
- 3 years (from knowledge)
- Employment (e.g. dismissal)
- 180 days. Abusive dismissal: object before the notice period ends, then sue within 180 days of the contract ending.
- Fraud (civil claim)
- 3 years (from knowledge)