RAV job-search proof: deadlines, numbers and how to document it

What the RAV expects

Your regional employment centre (RAV / ORP / URC) expects you to look for work actively and to document it. You list every job search effort from the month, completely and correctly, on the official form. Both quantity and quality count: your advisor agrees with you how many applications to make, and of what kind.

How many applications per month?

There is no single national number. The target is agreed individually with your RAV advisor. As a reference point, Canton Zurich states that in der Regel 10–12 efforts per month are expected. Your agreement may differ depending on your profession, your region and the job market.

Deadline and how to submit

Submit your proof at the end of each month, and by the 5th of the following month at the latest. Cantons such as Zurich and Basel-Landschaft accept four channels:

• Online via the eServices on arbeit.swiss
• By email to your RAV advisor
• By post to your RAV
• In person at your RAV

What to record for each application

Keep the details as you go, not at the end of the month. For each application, note:

• The date you applied
• The employer, with address and contact person
• The position and workload (percentage)
• How you applied: written, online, by phone or in person
• The outcome so far: rejection, interview or still open

Keep copies of your applications and of the replies you receive, in case your advisor asks for evidence.

Quality beats volume

Sending the same generic letter to every opening may meet a number, but it rarely leads to interviews. Applications written for the specific role, in the language of the job ad, work better. They also show your advisor that your job search is serious. See our Swiss CV guide for what a complete application looks like.

Sources: Kanton Zürich: Persönliche Arbeitsbemühungen · Kanton Basel-Landschaft: Arbeitsbemühungen. Rules can differ by canton and by your individual agreement. Always follow your RAV advisor.

FAQ

When is the RAV job-search proof due?

At the end of each month, and by the 5th of the following month at the latest.

How many applications does the RAV require per month?

The number is agreed individually with your RAV advisor. Canton Zurich states that 10 to 12 per month is typical.

How can I submit my Arbeitsbemühungen?

Online via the eServices on arbeit.swiss, by email to your advisor, by post, or in person at your RAV.