Classic CV templates for Switzerland
The Swiss standard par excellence. Serif typography, sober layout, full ATS compliance. The safe choice for banking, law and public administration.
Build my classic CVQuick answer
A classic Swiss CV follows a single-column linear structure, uses serif typography (Garamond, Times, Georgia) or sober sans-serif, and restricts color to rules or headings. It is the format best recognized by UBS, law firms and the federal administration.
Why the classic CV remains the Swiss reference
Despite the rise of modern designs, the classic CV remains the reference in sectors where rigor comes first: investment banking, audit (Big 4), law firms, notaries, federal and cantonal administration, higher education and medicine. Recruiters in these sectors associate sobriety with reliability, and an over-designed CV can be perceived as misaligned with company culture.
The codes of a classic Swiss CV
- A single column for natural reading flow
- Serif or neutral sans-serif typography (Garamond, Cambria, Calibri)
- Black and white or a single gray for headings
- Professional ID photo top right
- Sections in order: personal details, experience, education, skills, languages
- Discreet header with name, job title and contact
When to prefer classic over modern
If you apply at UBS, Pictet, Lombard Odier, Julius Baer, KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, EY, Schellenberg Wittmer, Lenz & Staehelin, cantonal courts, university hospitals (HUG, CHUV, Zurich University Hospital) or a federal administration role: the classic CV positions you from the first second as a serious candidate. Conversely, in a startup or creative agency it can feel dated.
Easy conversion between styles
With CV Builder, you can switch from a modern template to a classic one in one click, without re-entering your data. Prepare a classic version for corporate roles and a modern version for more creative companies. All versions are included in the 1 CHF/month subscription.
Useful guides
Our articles to help you in your job search
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Templates for every profession
Choose from 37 professional templates and customize them to your image
Arc
Decorative
Ribbon
Decorative
Pulse
Dynamic
Neon
Neon
Timeline
Timeline
Bold
Bold
Split
Two-tone
Bubbles
Creative
Waves
Creative
Geometric
Geometric
Gradient
Gradient
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Sarah Johnson
Product Manager @ Google Switzerland
Best CV builder I have used
The templates are modern and professional. I was able to create my CV in just 20 minutes. The PDF export is high quality and the price is unbeatable.
January 2026
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Senior Consultant @ McKinsey
Perfect for professionals
Clean interface, great templates, and excellent value for money. I recommend it to all my colleagues looking for a new opportunity.
January 2026
Emma Wilson
Research Associate @ EPFL
Academic template is excellent
The academic CV template helped me present my publications and research experience professionally. Got interviews at top universities!
January 2026
FAQ
Is the classic CV still read in 2026?
Yes, it remains the dominant format in Switzerland for all regulated sectors (finance, law, healthcare, administration). ATS parse it perfectly and human recruiters appreciate its clarity.
What font for a classic Swiss CV?
Garamond, Cambria, Calibri, Georgia or Source Serif Pro are excellent choices. Avoid Times New Roman which is perceived as dated, and all decorative fonts.
Is a photo required on a classic CV?
Yes, Switzerland keeps the convention of a CV photo, including on classic layouts. Portrait format, neutral background, professional attire. Typically placed top right.
Maximum number of pages?
Two A4 pages for an experienced profile, one for a junior or student. CVs of 3 pages or more are poorly perceived in Switzerland even for senior profiles.
Can I add a touch of color?
A discreet separator line in navy, burgundy or dark gray is acceptable. Colored headings must stay measured. Anything beyond risks falling outside the classic register.