Training Apprentices as a Hairdresser: Requirements, Process, and Costs in Switzerland

If you run a hair salon in Switzerland and want to build a sustainable business, training apprentices is a smart long-term strategy. Vocational training (Berufsbildung) is a cornerstone of the Swiss economy, and as a training salon, you play an active role in developing the next generation of hairdressers. But what does it take to train apprentices as a hairdresser in Switzerland? This article covers the requirements, the process, and the costs involved.

Requirements for Training Apprentices

Not every salon is automatically allowed to train apprentices. There are specific requirements that you and your business must meet:

• Federal Certificate of Proficiency (EFZ): You need an EFZ (Eidgenössisches Fähigkeitszeugnis) as a hairdresser. Without this recognized qualification, you are not permitted to train apprentices.
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience: After completing your EFZ, you must have at least three years of hands-on experience working as a hairdresser.
• Complete a vocational trainer course (Berufsbildnerkurs): You must complete a certified trainer course. This typically lasts 40 hours (5 days) and costs between CHF 500 and 800, depending on the canton and provider. The course teaches you how to guide learners, create training reports, and implement the education plan.
• Adequate salon infrastructure: Your salon must meet certain standards: enough workstations, professional equipment, sufficient space, and an environment that supports quality training.

The Process: How to Become a Training Salon

Once you meet the requirements, the path to becoming an approved training salon follows a clear structure:

• Apply to the cantonal vocational training office: Contact your cantonal Berufsbildungsamt (vocational education authority) and submit an application for recognition as a training business (Lehrbetrieb).
• Salon inspection: A vocational inspector will visit your salon to verify that your infrastructure and training conditions meet the required standards.
• Receive approval: Once the inspection is passed, you receive your training authorization and are officially allowed to train apprentices.
• Sign an apprenticeship contract: When you find a suitable apprentice, you sign a Lehrvertrag (apprenticeship contract). This contract must be approved by the cantonal vocational training office.

Costs: What Does It Cost to Train an Apprentice?

Training an apprentice is an investment – but one that pays off over time. Here are the main cost factors:

• Apprentice salary in year 1: approx. CHF 600–800 per month
• Apprentice salary in year 2: approx. CHF 800–1,000 per month
• Apprentice salary in year 3: approx. CHF 1,000–1,400 per month
• Vocational trainer course: one-time cost of CHF 500–800
• Material costs: additional products and practice supplies

On top of this, there is the time commitment. Especially in the first year, you will need to dedicate more time to guiding and supervising your apprentice.

Benefits: Why Training Apprentices Is Worth It

Despite the effort, training apprentices offers significant advantages for your salon:

• Shape your future employees: You train skilled professionals to your own standards, giving you the best chance of retaining them as employees after they qualify.
• Tax benefits: Apprentice wages and training expenses are fully deductible as business costs.
• Fresh perspectives: Apprentices bring new ideas, current trends, and youthful energy to your salon.
• Reputation and standing: Training salons enjoy high respect within the industry and among clients.
• Day-to-day support: From the second year onwards, apprentices can increasingly contribute productive work.

Conclusion: A Worthwhile Investment in the Future

Training apprentices as a hairdresser is more than an obligation – it is an opportunity to strengthen your salon long-term while making a meaningful contribution to vocational education in Switzerland. If you meet the requirements and are willing to invest time and commitment, you will benefit from motivated young professionals who enrich your business.

Looking to open a hair salon or set up your existing salon as a training business? Our free guide walks you through every step – from launching your business to successfully training apprentices.