Wasn't sure whether to put this here or in the employment section, but here goes...

I moved to Switzerland in March 2011, accepting a full time position, but with the agreement of a sabbatical (long story, but the employer was desperate for staff and I changed plans to join them immediately rather than later in the summer when I wanted and thus they agreed to my sabbatical after their busy period).

I worked from March 8, 2011 until August 19, 2011. I then took my sabbatical and returned to work on January 2, 2012.

I have recently found out that "there might not be a job here for you any more". I have a two month notice period in my contract so this will take me past March 8 when I will have been employed for a full year.

I was paying rent and health insurance during this time but was not paying the usual deductions from my salary (social insurance, etc.)

Will the 4 months I spent outside the country affect my right to claim unemployment? My contract was not terminated and legally I have been continually employed but I am concerned that as I wasn't paying into the system, I won't be eligible for anything from it.

Thanks for any help you can give me.

Why weren't you paying in to the system???

Because I was on sabbatical and not living in the country. I was informed by my employer I didn't need to pay anything as I was not earning.

That's unfortunate, because unless you paid 12 months' contributions in the last 24 months, you don't get anything.

On the other hand, did you maybe pay contributions in an EU state in the last 24 months? That would count towards the Swiss system.

That's what I thought, unfortunately. So even though I've been employed for 12 months, I'm screwed because I was told I didn't have to pay in.

Is there any way of back-paying the 4 months I missed?

And for the other bit - no, my wife and I have not lived in EU, or anywhere in Europe for that matter, for well over 7 years.

You need to talk to RAV. They can also check whether you were actually exempt during your "sabbatical".

Thanks for your help. I plan to go and see the RAV but just wanted to get a bit of background information before I go.

Does it matter which RAV office I go to? (closest to home, closest to work, any one?)

Sorry for the stupid questions

Yes, look on the net and you will find the one that covers your area.

Question removed - found answer

Anyway, hoping it won't come to this as have interviews lined up and my CV out with four other companies!