Important information about booking models in Switzerland

When booking models for productions in Switzerland, legally sensitive situations often arise. To ensure that your production runs smoothly and in compliance with the law, we would like to highlight a few important points for your guidance:

The placement of models in Switzerland is clearly regulated

The employment of models in Switzerland is subject to the Employment Services Act (AVG, Art. 2 & 39a). This regulates the conditions for bookings by Swiss companies as well as for foreign productions carried out in Switzerland. Foreign agencies do not have a Swiss placement permit and are therefore not allowed to place models in Switzerland. Only modeling agencies with a valid Swiss license may place models for assignments in Switzerland or handle corresponding bookings.

The Swiss market is protected by law

Model bookings for assignments in Switzerland must be made through a modeling agency licensed in Switzerland. This agency license is issued by the cantonal authorities and SECO and requires, among other things, a company headquarters in Switzerland. All members of the VSM have such a license. A foreign modeling agency may not make direct bookings with Swiss or foreign clients for assignments in Switzerland – even if the model is already in Switzerland or resides here. Cooperation is only permitted through a licensed Swiss partner agency.

Bookings through foreign agencies are not permitted

Bookings of models through foreign agencies are not permitted, regardless of whether the agency is based in the EU or a third country. Swiss and foreign companies are not allowed to book models through unauthorized agencies. If a booking is nevertheless made through a foreign agency without a Swiss license, this may be considered an unauthorized agency.

Regardless of invoicing

Even if the invoice is issued by a third party (e.g., casting directors, production companies, or photographers), the agency activity itself is decisive. The decisive factors are the production location and the registered office of the commissioning company. In any case, a Swiss modeling agency with a license must be involved. The legal regulation applies regardless of where the invoice is issued or the payment is processed.

Violations can be costly

Anyone who violates these requirements—whether as a client, an agency, or through unauthorized agency work—risks sanctions. The competent authorities can impose fines of up to CHF 40,000 (AVG Art. 39a). In addition, there may be legal consequences for both the companies involved and the models.

How to do everything right

Process bookings securely and professionally

Contact an approved Swiss modeling agency directly. Thanks to their experience and international networks, you will receive suitable suggestions for models whose booking is legally sound and smooth.

International bookings through Swiss partner agencies

If you work with a foreign modeling agency, make sure that it cooperates with an approved Swiss partner agency. This is the only way to ensure that bookings comply with the law and that all provisions of the Employment Services Act are observed.