Switzerland Travel regulations, Coronavirus regulations, travel bans

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government to end COVID-19 quarantine requirement for vaccinated travelers from 31 May, will maintain some restrictions for arrivals from high-risk countries (The Local – Switzerland, 13.05.2021). Swiss government adds Cape Verde, Egypt, Mexico, Qatar to quarantine list; Maldives removed from list (The Local – Switzerland, 03.05.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

14.05.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government adds Cape Verde, Egypt, Mexico, Qatar to quarantine list; Maldives removed from list (The Local – Switzerland, 03.05.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

11.05.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government adds Cape Verde, Egypt, Mexico, Qatar to quarantine list; Maldives removed from list (The Local – Switzerland, 03.05.2021). Swiss government adds India to its list of high-risk countries from which travelers must enter quarantine (Zee News, 28.04.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

04.05.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government adds India to its list of high-risk countries from which travelers must enter quarantine (Zee News, 28.04.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

01.05.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government adds India to its list of high-risk countries from which travelers must enter quarantine (Zee News, 28.04.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

29.04.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government adds India to its list of high-risk countries from which travelers must enter quarantine (Zee News, 28.04.2021). Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

28.04.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Outdoor terraces of restaurants and bars have reopened.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

22.04.2021

Switzerland The Swiss authorities have created two lists in which they place countries based on their number of COVID-19 cases – the list of high-risk countries and the list of low-risk countries. Based on which list a country is placed, are determined the restrictions imposed on arrivals from the same.

The lists are established based on a few criteria, including if the number of new infections per 100,000 people in the country or region concerned in the last two weeks is more than 60 higher than in Switzerland, and this number is not due to individual events or local cases.

The mutation of the virus detected in the state or area in question is also taken as a factor, as well as the number of infected people who were in the country or area concerned, who have entered Switzerland in the last four weeks before the update of the list.

Since April 19, the most recent update of the list, the following Schengen Area countries are placed in the list of low-risk countries:

Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
The following European microstates and individual third countries are also part of the list:

Andorra
Australia
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Ireland
Monaco
New Zealand
Romania
Rwanda
San Marino
Singapore
South Korea
Thailand
Vatican / Holy See
At the same time, the authorities in several cases may exclude border areas from the high-risk list, even if they have a high number of cases, due to the close economic, social and cultural exchange with the neighbouring countries.

The rest of the world countries, which are not included above, are considered as high risk, and therefore, arrivals from those areas are subject to stricter entry restrictions.

Filling an Entry Form Before Reaching Switzerland – an Obligation for All
Almost everyone travelling to Switzerland is obliged to fill out an entry form using a computer or smartphone before they reach Switzerland. Once the form is completed, the travellers will receive an email with a QR code.

During entry controls, the traveller will have to show the QR code to the border guards. The code can be shown either on a smartphone or printed.

In spite of this requirement, several categories are exempt from meeting it, including those who are entering Switzerland from a border area, with which there is close economic, social and cultural exchange.

Those transporting people or goods across the borders as a part of their professional activity are also exempt from the requirement. People transiting the country are also exempt.

The entry form is not an obligation to those who enter Switzerland with their own vehicle, who have not been in a state or area with an increased risk of infection within the last ten days.

COVID-19 Negative Test Results for Those Reaching the Country by Air, Water & Land
Just like the rest of the European countries, Switzerland also has in place a requirement of negative results of a COVID-19 test to enter the country.

The requirement, however, changes depending on the means of travel with which one reaches Switzerland, as explained below.

COVID-19 Negative Test Results for Those Reaching Switzerland by Air
All travellers eligible to enter the Swiss territory who reach the country by air are subject to the requirement of a negative result of a COVID-19 test, which they must present twice. First, the traveller must present the test when boarding for departure abroad and secondly at the Swiss airport.

During boarding, airline companies are obliged to check COVID-19 tests, and they accept only two types of them:

PCR tests done within the last 72 hours
Rapid antigen tests performed within the last 24 hours
Those who fail to present the test results will be rejected from boarding the plane.

Upon arrival at a Swiss airport, the border control authority in the transit area of the airport controls the negative test result of the travellers with random samples. Only PCR tests done within the last 72 hours are accepted.

Those who do not have a negative PCR test result must be tested in Switzerland immediately, with a rapid PCR or antigen test.

COVID-19 Negative Test Results for Those Reaching Switzerland by Land & Water
As per those reaching Switzerland through land or boat, who have stayed in one of the high risk countries within the ten previous days, they will need to stay in quarantine, but also to present the negative results of a PCR test performed within the last 72 hours.

Those who do not hold a certificate showing they have tested for the virus need to be tested in Switzerland as soon as possible. Both rapid PCR and antigen tests are accepted.

Who Is Obliged to Quarantine? What Are the Rules?
Those who have been in one of the countries which are on the list of high-risk areas within the last ten days before reaching Switzerland fall subject to the requirement of self-isolation imposed by Swiss authorities. Vaccinated travellers are not exempt from the measure.

All travellers are obliged to quarantine at their home or another suitable place of accommodation as soon as they enter the country. They should also report their entry to the responsible cantonal authority within two days.

If the traveller takes a PCR or antigen rapid test on the seventh day of their isolation and the result is negative, the isolation can be terminated.

Travellers that are caught violating their quarantine obligation can be punished with a fine of up to CHF 10,000.

Is Anyone Exempt From the Requirements of Testing & Quarantine?
Several categories of people are exempt from the quarantine and testing requirement when entering the territory of Switzerland, as follows:

Business travellers who are entering Switzerland for a business reason, which cannot be postponed
Individuals travelling for an important medical reason that cannot be postponed
Transit passengers who have been in a state or area with an increased risk of infection for less than 24 hours
Transit passengers, who will only pass through the country to reach their destination
People who transport people or goods across borders in their duty
They, however, remain subject to the obligation to present negative COVID-19 test result boarding an aircraft.

21.04.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

20.04.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit:

The following rules apply to travelling through Switzerland to another country:

Transit from a Schengen country to other Schengen country
Entry from a Schengen state for the purpose of travelling on to another Schengen state is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a Schengen country to a third country
Entry from a Schengen country for the purpose of travelling on to a country outside the Schengen area is possible for anyone who is lawfully present in the Schengen area
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a high-risk country in order to travel on to another Schengen country for a short stay of up to 90 days that does not require a residence document. However, third-country citizens holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen area are allowed to travel through Switzerland to that country. If the country of destination in the Schengen area has authorised entry for a short stay of up to 90 days, the person concerned must enter the Schengen area by travelling directly to that country
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to a Schengen country
When entering Switzerland from a third country that is not considered high-risk in order to travel on to another Schengen country, the normal requirements for entering Switzerland apply
Transit from a third country considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
It is not possible to enter Switzerland from a third country that is considered high-risk in order to travel on to another country outside the Schengen area, unless transiting through Zurich or Geneva airport. Travellers should check whether they require a transit visa. In such cases, travellers do not actually enter Switzerland but remain in the transit area of the airport.
Transit visa requirements: Passport and visa requirements not depending on citizenship (PDF, 337 kB, 18.03.2021)
Transit from a third country not considered by the SEM to be high-risk to another third country
Entry into Switzerland from a third country which is not on the SEM high-risk list for onward travel to another country outside the Schengen area is possible subject to the normal entry and transit requirements (N.B. a transit visa may be required).

Find out more:
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rules applicable to unmarried couples

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

09.04.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

01.04.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Sweden adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Sweden are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Citizens from EU Member States (with the exception of Denmark) and Schengen Associated countries (with the exception of Norway), and their family members, as well as people with Swedish residence permits, are allowed to enter Sweden at the conditions specified hereafter.

Until 31 March, Sweden enforces a stricter entry ban from Denmark and Norway. Foreigners coming from Denmark are allowed to enter Sweden if they live or work in Sweden. Exceptions apply to people who live on Bornholm and travel, via Sweden, between Bornholm and another part of Denmark, as well as to health and medical personnel who shall perform work on Bornholm and personnel who shall perform health and medical transports. Other than those exemptions, only Swedish citizens are allowed to enter Sweden from Denmark.

From 31 March, Danish and Norwegian citizens can enter under the same requirements as other EU/EEA nationals.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test.
The test must be taken within 48 hours prior to arrival.
Accepted tests: antigen, TMA, PCR, LAMP.
Children aged 17 and under are exempted.

The following information must appear on the certificate:

name of the person who has been tested
date/time of the test
type of test
the test result
Issuer of the certificate

The information must be clearly stated in Swedish, English, Norwegian or Danish.

Exemptions are available for cross-border workers and some other categories.

If you got tested before your departure for Sweden, you do not have to get tested again in connection with your arrival, but you should still get tested 5 days after your arrival.

Is a quarantine required?

A quarantine is not required.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Airline operators may require passengers to show a health statement but this is not a general requirement for entering Sweden.

Find out more:
International travel restrictions – Krisinformation.se

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: Transit is permitted.

*From Third Countries:

Until 31 May 2021, there is an entry ban for non-essential travel to Sweden from countries outside the EU.

The entry ban does not apply to:

EU and Schengen Associated Countries citizens and their family members;
permanent residents or holders of a residence permit in Sweden or another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have a national visa in Sweden or a national visa valid longer than three months in another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have family ties as specified under the Aliens Act (2005:716).

Entry in Sweden is allowed for foreigners who reside in the following countries: Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea and Thailand.

A temporary entry ban applies to all passengers arriving from the UK. UK nationals who can demonstrate that they live or work in Sweden or have urgent family reasons are exempt. Swedish citizens are also exempt.

Travellers to Sweden from the UK who are exempt from the entry ban will have to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Sweden. Holders of Swedish passports do not have to do this.

Citizens of other countries who have particularly urgent needs or who are to carry out essential functions in Sweden can also be allowed entry. This includes an exemption for students and highly skilled professionals, amongst others. For more information.

Find out more:
polisen.se

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

31.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

30.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving by air, as well as all travellers entering by bus/rail/car who have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection in the 10 days before entering Switzerland, are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.
The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Only molecular tests are accepted – the result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Children aged 12 and under are exempted.

More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, must complete a mandatory quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

29.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

26.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

23.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU: Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map. The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

19.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:
Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.
The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighboring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.
A negative coronavirus test is required:
• If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
• If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.
The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.
Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available. Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.
Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.
The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement. Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs.

*From Third Countries: The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

16.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

12.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory.
Switzerland has relaxed some coronavirus restrictions. Groups of up to 15 people are able to gather outdoors, shops selling non-essential goods have reopened, sports and cultural activities are able to take place outdoors. Restaurants, bars and clubs remain closed.
For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

05.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

02.03.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Non-essential businesses to reopen from 1 March, restaurants from 22 March as government eases COVID-19 restrictions (Swiss Info, 25.02.2021). Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (The Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

26.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Sweden adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Sweden are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Citizens from EU Member States (with the exception of Denmark) and Schengen Associated countries (with the exception of Norway), and their family members, as well as people with Swedish residence permits, are allowed to enter Sweden at the conditions specified hereafter.

Sweden enforces a stricter entry ban from Denmark and Norway, including all foreign citizens except personnel transporting goods or passengers, foreign diplomats or consular staff and their families and staff, foreign couriers, people working in or for an international organisation and people with urgent family reasons.

Foreigners coming from Denmark are allowed to enter Sweden if they live or work in Sweden. Exceptions also apply to people who live on Bornholm and travel, via Sweden, between Bornholm and another part of Denmark, as well as to health and medical personnel who shall perform work on Bornholm and personnel who shall perform health and medical transports. Other than those exemptions, only Swedish citizens will be allowed to enter Sweden from Denmark.

Is a coronavirus test required?

Upon entry into Sweden, foreign nationals aged 18 and above have to present a negative result to a COVID-19 test, regardless of where they are arriving from. The test must not be older than 48 hours.

Approved tests: Antigen, PCR and LAMP.

The following information must appear on the certificate:

name of the person who has been tested
date/time of the test
type of test (antigen, PCR or LAMP)
the test result
Issuer of the certificate

The information must be clearly stated in Swedish, English, Norwegian or Danish.

Exemptions are available for cross-border workers and some other categories.

Is a quarantine required?

NO.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Airline operators may require passengers to show a health statement but this is not a general requirement for entering Sweden.

Find out more:
krisinformationen.se

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: Transit is permitted

*From Third Countries:

Entry in Sweden is allowed for foreigners who reside in the following countries: Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea and Thailand.

The Swedish government has decided to stop all non-essential travel to Sweden from countries outside the EU. This ban will be in effect until 31 March 2021.
The entry ban does not apply to:

EU and Schengen Associated Countries citizens and their family members;
permanent residents or holders of a residence permit in Sweden or another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have a national visa in Sweden or a national visa valid longer than three months in another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have family ties as specified under the Aliens Act (2005:716).

A temporary entry ban applies to all passengers arriving from the UK. UK nationals who can demonstrate that they live or work in Sweden or have urgent family reasons are exempt. Swedish citizens are also exempt. Travellers to Sweden from the UK who are exempt from the entry ban will have to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Sweden. Holders of Swedish passports do not have to do this.

Citizens of other countries who have particularly urgent needs or who are to carry out essential functions in Sweden can also be allowed entry. This includes an exemption for students and highly skilled professionals, amongst others. For more information.

Find out more:
polisen.se

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

23.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Sweden adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Sweden are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Citizens from EU Member States (with the exception of Denmark) and Schengen Associated countries (with the exception of Norway), and their family members, as well as people with Swedish residence permits, are allowed to enter Sweden at the conditions specified hereafter.

Sweden enforces a stricter entry ban from Denmark and Norway, including all foreign citizens except personnel transporting goods or passengers, foreign diplomats or consular staff and their families and staff, foreign couriers, people working in or for an international organisation and people with urgent family reasons.

Foreigners coming from Denmark are allowed to enter Sweden if they live or work in Sweden. Exceptions also apply to people who live on Bornholm and travel, via Sweden, between Bornholm and another part of Denmark, as well as to health and medical personnel who shall perform work on Bornholm and personnel who shall perform health and medical transports. Other than those exemptions, only Swedish citizens will be allowed to enter Sweden from Denmark.

Is a coronavirus test required?

Upon entry into Sweden, foreign nationals aged 18 and above have to present a negative result to a COVID-19 test, regardless of where they are arriving from. The test must not be older than 48 hours.

Approved tests: Antigen, PCR and LAMP.

The following information must appear on the certificate:

name of the person who has been tested
date/time of the test
type of test (antigen, PCR or LAMP)
the test result
Issuer of the certificate

The information must be clearly stated in Swedish, English, Norwegian or Danish.

Exemptions are available for cross-border workers and some other categories.

Is a quarantine required?

NO.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Airline operators may require passengers to show a health statement but this is not a general requirement for entering Sweden.

Find out more:
krisinformationen.se

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Entry in Sweden is allowed for foreigners who reside in the following countries: Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea and Thailand.

The Swedish government has decided to stop all non-essential travel to Sweden from countries outside the EU. This ban will be in effect until 31 March 2021.
The entry ban does not apply to:

EU and Schengen Associated Countries citizens and their family members;
permanent residents or holders of a residence permit in Sweden or another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have a national visa in Sweden or a national visa valid longer than three months in another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have family ties as specified under the Aliens Act (2005:716).

A temporary entry ban applies to all passengers arriving from the UK. UK nationals who can demonstrate that they live or work in Sweden or have urgent family reasons are exempt. Swedish citizens are also exempt. Travellers to Sweden from the UK who are exempt from the entry ban will have to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Sweden. Holders of Swedish passports do not have to do this.

Citizens of other countries who have particularly urgent needs or who are to carry out essential functions in Sweden can also be allowed entry. This includes an exemption for students and highly skilled professionals, amongst others. For more information.

Find out more:
polisen.se

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

19.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries defined as COVID-19 risk area. If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative coronavirus test is required:

If you enter Switzerland by air (without a negative test result you are not allowed to board the aircraft);
If you have stayed in a country with an increased risk of infection within the 10 days before entering Switzerland. In this case you must always be able to show proof of a negative test result, even if you enter Switzerland by bus, rail, car, etc.

The test must have been conducted no more than 72 hours before entry and it has to be a molecular-biological test (for example a PCR test). The result of a rapid antigen test is not sufficient.

Exceptions: Children under age 12 are not subject to the testing requirement. More exemptions from the Testing and Quarantine Requirement are available.

Is a quarantine required?

Travellers who, in the last 10 days before entry into Switzerland, have spent time in a country or area with an increased risk of infection, are legally required to go into quarantine and report their arrival in Switzerland to the cantonal authorities.

Exceptions: Certain people are exempt from the quarantine requirement.

The quarantine can be shortened with a negative result to a PCR test taken on day 7. COVID-19 vaccination does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before your entry to Switzerland, the electronic entry form available at swissplf.admin.ch must be filled out.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
What to do after entering Switzerland
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

16.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Sweden adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Sweden are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Citizens from EU Member States (with the exception of Denmark) and Schengen Associated countries (with the exception of Norway), and their family members, as well as people with Swedish residence permits, are allowed to enter Sweden at the conditions specified hereafter.

Sweden enforces a stricter entry ban from Denmark and Norway, including all foreign citizens except personnel transporting goods or passengers, foreign diplomats or consular staff and their families and staff, foreign couriers, people working in or for an international organisation and people with urgent family reasons.

Foreigners coming from Denmark are allowed to enter Sweden if they live or work in Sweden. Exceptions also apply to people who live on Bornholm and travel, via Sweden, between Bornholm and another part of Denmark, as well as to health and medical personnel who shall perform work on Bornholm and personnel who shall perform health and medical transports. Other than those exemptions, only Swedish citizens will be allowed to enter Sweden from Denmark.

Is a coronavirus test required?

Upon entry into Sweden, foreign nationals aged 18 and above have to present a negative result to a COVID-19 test, regardless of where they are arriving from. The test must not be older than 48 hours.

Approved tests: Antigen, PCR and LAMP.

The following information must appear on the certificate:

name of the person who has been tested
date/time of the test
type of test (antigen, PCR or LAMP)
the test result
Issuer of the certificate

The information must be clearly stated in Swedish, English, Norwegian or Danish.

Exemptions are available for cross-border workers and some other categories.

Is a quarantine required?

NO.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Airline operators may require passengers to show a health statement but this is not a general requirement for entering Sweden.

Find out more:
krisinformationen.se

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: Transit is permitted

*From Third Countries:

Entry in Sweden is allowed for foreigners who reside in the following countries: Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea and Thailand.

The Swedish government has decided to stop all non-essential travel to Sweden from countries outside the EU. This ban will be in effect until 31 March 2021.
The entry ban does not apply to:

EU and Schengen Associated Countries citizens and their family members;
permanent residents or holders of a residence permit in Sweden or another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have a national visa in Sweden or a national visa valid longer than three months in another EU Member State or Schengen Associated country;
People who have family ties as specified under the Aliens Act (2005:716).

A temporary entry ban applies to all passengers arriving from the UK. UK nationals who can demonstrate that they live or work in Sweden or have urgent family reasons are exempt. Swedish citizens are also exempt. Travellers to Sweden from the UK who are exempt from the entry ban will have to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Sweden. Holders of Swedish passports do not have to do this.

Citizens of other countries who have particularly urgent needs or who are to carry out essential functions in Sweden can also be allowed entry. This includes an exemption for students and highly skilled professionals, amongst others. For more information.

Find out more:
polisen.se

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

12.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as COVID-19 risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries concerned.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Is a quarantine required?

All travellers from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within 2 days after arrival and follow their instructions.

The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative test result does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement, neither it shortens the quarantine period.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing
. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). Swiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

11.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as COVID-19 risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries concerned.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Is a quarantine required?

All travellers from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within 2 days after arrival and follow their instructions.

The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative test result does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement, neither it shortens the quarantine period.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). For further information on these measures and exceptions, see theSwiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

02.02.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government changes its COVID-19 testing and quarantine policy (Siss Info, 28.01.2021). Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): Travelers from the UK are not permitted entry to Switzerland. UK nationals and other non-Swiss nationals arriving from a “high risk-country” or outside the Schengen area are not permitted entry to Switzerland. Only the following categories of people are permitted entry: Swiss and Liechtenstein nationals; Holders of the following documents:
• a residence permit, i.e. a Swiss residence permit (L / B / C / Ci permits);
• a cross-border permit (G permit),
• an FDFA legitimation card;
• a D visa issued by Switzerland;
• Holders of a ‘laissez passer’ issued by a Swiss representation in cases of ‘individual special necessity’.
Further information and a list of ‘high risk countries’ can be found on the website of the State Secretariat of Migration. These restrictions do not apply to UK nationals who are legally resident in Switzerland; you will need to show proof of residence. These restrictions do not apply to UK nationals who are travelling from other Schengen countries. If you do not hold a residence permit, or do not have your permit with you but are resident in Switzerland, or are otherwise exempted, you will need to apply for a ‘laissez passer’ from the Swiss Embassy.
From 8 February, travellers from ‘high risk countries’, including the UK, will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result (rapid antigen test or PCR), carried out less than 72 hours before arrival. Anyone arriving in Switzerland by air, even from a country that is not considered high risk will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result (rapid antigen test or PCR) before arrival. Further information, including a list of ‘high risk countries’ are available on the Federal Office of Public Health website.
From 8 February, all travellers to Switzerland arriving by air, boat, bus or train must complete an online form on arrival and provide contact details.

*From within the EU:

Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as COVID-19 risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health provides a regularly updated list of countries concerned.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Is a quarantine required?

All travellers from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within 2 days after arrival and follow their instructions.

The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers.

Is a coronavirus test required?

A negative test result does not exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement, neither it shortens the quarantine period.

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). For further information on these measures and exceptions, see theSwiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

29.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Note: Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe.

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

.

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). For further information on these measures and exceptions, see theSwiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

26.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Note: Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons.
Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces is compulsory. Shops selling non-essential goods, restaurants, bars, clubs, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 28 February. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. Public gatherings, sporting and cultural activities, and meetings in private households are limited to a maximum of five people (including children). For further information on these measures and exceptions, see theSwiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

14.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government imposes COVID-19 quarantine for arrivals from Ireland, other countries (THe Local, 12.01.2021). Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Note: Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: Switzerland has put measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. You should follow therules on hygiene and social distancing . These include:
• Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly
• Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people
• If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, on platforms and in waiting areas, as well as at airports. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should checkcantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: Restaurants, bars, cultural venues, and sports and leisure facilities are closed until 22 January 2021. Takeaways and delivery services may remain open. The number of people who may be in a shop is limited, and shops must close between 7pm and 6am, and on Sundays and public holidays. Cantons with a more favourable epidemiological situation can choose to relax these restrictions. For further information on these measures and exceptions, see theSwiss Government website . Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should checkcantonal websites for further details.

13.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021). Swiss government will reopen airports to flights from U.K. and South Africa from 24 December but only for certain travelers (The Local Switzerland, 23.12.2020). Germany, Italy, Switzerland: All cross-border rail service between Italy, Switzerland will be halted from 10 December; long-distance trains between Milan, Frankfurt also affected (Reuters, 08.12.2020).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Note: Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

.

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include: • Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly; • Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people; • If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask. Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, and at Geneva, Zurich and Basel airports. It is compulsory to wear a face mask on all flights to and from Switzerland. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: From Saturday 12 December, restaurants, bars, shops, markets, museums, libraries, and sports and leisure facilities will be required to close between 7pm and 6am and, with the exception of restaurants and bars, will not be permitted to open at any time on Sundays and public holidays. Certain cantons with a more favourable epidemiological situation may extend closing time until 11pm. On 24 December and New Year’s Eve, the closing time for restaurants and bars will be 1am. Takeaways and delivery services can remain open until 11pm.
Events are prohibited, with the exception of religious services (for up to 50 people), funerals attended by family and close friends, parliamentary assemblies and political demonstrations. Sports and cultural activities are restricted to groups of up to five people, with certain exceptions for child, youth and professional sporting and cultural activities. For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in indoor public places such as shops, banks, post offices, museums, libraries and cinemas. Wearing a face mask is also required in outdoor zones where social distancing cannot be observed, including establishments such as markets, shops, venues, restaurants, bars. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Further information from the Federal Office of Public Health.
Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited in public places; private gatherings are restricted to 10 people. Businesses and public services are open with social distancing measures in place. Eating and drinking in restaurants and bars must be at a table; no more than four people must sit at a table, with the exception of families with children. You may be asked to leave your details (e.g. when visiting bars and restaurants) to enable contact tracing. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

11.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss health authorities add Czech Republic, Denmark, Netherlands, Panama to their quarantine list; others removed (Reuters, 06.01.2021). Swiss government will reopen airports to flights from U.K. and South Africa from 24 December but only for certain travelers (The Local Switzerland, 23.12.2020). Germany, Italy, Switzerland: All cross-border rail service between Italy, Switzerland will be halted from 10 December; long-distance trains between Milan, Frankfurt also affected (Reuters, 08.12.2020).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Note: Switzerland adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Switzerland are not based on the common “EU Traffic Lights” map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include: • Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly; • Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people; • If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask. Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, and at Geneva, Zurich and Basel airports. It is compulsory to wear a face mask on all flights to and from Switzerland. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: From Saturday 12 December, restaurants, bars, shops, markets, museums, libraries, and sports and leisure facilities will be required to close between 7pm and 6am and, with the exception of restaurants and bars, will not be permitted to open at any time on Sundays and public holidays. Certain cantons with a more favourable epidemiological situation may extend closing time until 11pm. On 24 December and New Year’s Eve, the closing time for restaurants and bars will be 1am. Takeaways and delivery services can remain open until 11pm.
Events are prohibited, with the exception of religious services (for up to 50 people), funerals attended by family and close friends, parliamentary assemblies and political demonstrations. Sports and cultural activities are restricted to groups of up to five people, with certain exceptions for child, youth and professional sporting and cultural activities. For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in indoor public places such as shops, banks, post offices, museums, libraries and cinemas. Wearing a face mask is also required in outdoor zones where social distancing cannot be observed, including establishments such as markets, shops, venues, restaurants, bars. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Further information from the Federal Office of Public Health.
Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited in public places; private gatherings are restricted to 10 people. Businesses and public services are open with social distancing measures in place. Eating and drinking in restaurants and bars must be at a table; no more than four people must sit at a table, with the exception of families with children. You may be asked to leave your details (e.g. when visiting bars and restaurants) to enable contact tracing. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

08.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government will reopen airports to flights from U.K. and South Africa from 24 December but only for certain travelers (The Local Switzerland, 23.12.2020). Germany, Italy, Switzerland: All cross-border rail service between Italy, Switzerland will be halted from 10 December; long-distance trains between Milan, Frankfurt also affected (Reuters, 08.12.2020).

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe
*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs
*From Third Countries:

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include: • Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly; • Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people; • If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask. Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, and at Geneva, Zurich and Basel airports. It is compulsory to wear a face mask on all flights to and from Switzerland. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: From Saturday 12 December, restaurants, bars, shops, markets, museums, libraries, and sports and leisure facilities will be required to close between 7pm and 6am and, with the exception of restaurants and bars, will not be permitted to open at any time on Sundays and public holidays. Certain cantons with a more favourable epidemiological situation may extend closing time until 11pm. On 24 December and New Year’s Eve, the closing time for restaurants and bars will be 1am. Takeaways and delivery services can remain open until 11pm.
Events are prohibited, with the exception of religious services (for up to 50 people), funerals attended by family and close friends, parliamentary assemblies and political demonstrations. Sports and cultural activities are restricted to groups of up to five people, with certain exceptions for child, youth and professional sporting and cultural activities. For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in indoor public places such as shops, banks, post offices, museums, libraries and cinemas. Wearing a face mask is also required in outdoor zones where social distancing cannot be observed, including establishments such as markets, shops, venues, restaurants, bars. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Further information from the Federal Office of Public Health.
Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited in public places; private gatherings are restricted to 10 people. Businesses and public services are open with social distancing measures in place. Eating and drinking in restaurants and bars must be at a table; no more than four people must sit at a table, with the exception of families with children. You may be asked to leave your details (e.g. when visiting bars and restaurants) to enable contact tracing. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

05.01.2021

Switzerland Latest News: Swiss government will reopen airports to flights from U.K. and South Africa from 24 December but only for certain travelers (The Local Switzerland, 23.12.2020). Germany, Italy, Switzerland: All cross-border rail service between Italy, Switzerland will be halted from 10 December; long-distance trains between Milan, Frankfurt also affected (Reuters, 08.12.2020).

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK, and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

International Restrictions:
*From within the EU:

Specific measures for the new variant of coronavirus

On 20 December, Switzerland announced a general entry ban for all travellers from the UK and suspended all flights between the UK and Switzerland. On 23 December, the Swiss Government introduced an exemption to allow passenger flights to/from the UK from 24 December for the purpose of enabling residents of the UK and Switzerland to return in both directions.

Anyone arriving in Switzerland from the United Kingdom since 14 December, regardless of nationality, is required to self-isolate for 10 days from the date of arrival. British citizens currently in quarantine who intend to travel to the airport will need to follow protective measures to remain in quarantine; local cantonal authorities will be able to advise on this, which may include avoiding public transport.

____________________

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed without restrictions unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine will be notified during the flight, onboard of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.

For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Find out more:
www.bag.admin.ch

Documents you need to travel in Europe

*Transit: It is possible to stop over at one of the Swiss airports, as long as you do not leave the transit zone of the airport and you can prove that you can continue your journey to your destination country. If you are unable to board your flight and are stuck in an international transit area of an airport, contact the local border control authorities directly. Third country nationals travelling from a Covid risk area, are allowed to transit if they are holding a residence document for their destination country in the Schengen Area and travel through Switzerland to their destination country. Furthermore, those planning to transit Switzerland in their way to their destination country can no longer do so if they depart from one of the countries in Switzerland’s list of high-risk areas.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

*From Third Countries:

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed without restrictions, unless a country or region is defined as Covid risk area. The Federal Office of Public Health keeps a list of countries concerned, which is updated regularly.

All travellers entering Switzerland from countries or regions that are defined as Covid risk areas will have to quarantine for 10 days.

If a country is on the list, this includes all of its areas, islands and overseas territories – even if they are not listed separately. Switzerland’s neighbouring countries are exempted from this regulation. In the case of these countries, it is not the entire country that is listed, but rather regions. Further information in this regard can be found on the page Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

A negative test result does not exempt you from the mandatory quarantine requirement or shorten the quarantine period.

Travellers that are required to go into quarantine willl be notified during the flight, on board of coaches and at border crossings. They will have to register with the cantonal authorities within two days after arrival, and follow their instructions.

Airline and travel companies are instructed not to transport sick passengers. The mandatory quarantine requirement does not apply to transit passengers who have spent less than 24 hours in a country or area with an increased risk of infection.
For updated information, also see the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) FAQs

Mandatory Travel Documentation

No additional documentation is required.

Find out more:

www.bag.admin.ch

Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Switzerland: You should follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. These include: • Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly; • Keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people; • If it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask. Wearing a face mask is compulsory when travelling on public transport, and at Geneva, Zurich and Basel airports. It is compulsory to wear a face mask on all flights to and from Switzerland. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from this requirement, as are individuals who are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.
*Public spaces and services: From Saturday 12 December, restaurants, bars, shops, markets, museums, libraries, and sports and leisure facilities will be required to close between 7pm and 6am and, with the exception of restaurants and bars, will not be permitted to open at any time on Sundays and public holidays. Certain cantons with a more favourable epidemiological situation may extend closing time until 11pm. On 24 December and New Year’s Eve, the closing time for restaurants and bars will be 1am. Takeaways and delivery services can remain open until 11pm.
Events are prohibited, with the exception of religious services (for up to 50 people), funerals attended by family and close friends, parliamentary assemblies and political demonstrations. Sports and cultural activities are restricted to groups of up to five people, with certain exceptions for child, youth and professional sporting and cultural activities. For further information on these measures and exceptions, see the Swiss Government website.
Wearing a face mask is compulsory in indoor public places such as shops, banks, post offices, museums, libraries and cinemas. Wearing a face mask is also required in outdoor zones where social distancing cannot be observed, including establishments such as markets, shops, venues, restaurants, bars. Failure to do so is punishable by a fine. Further information from the Federal Office of Public Health.
Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited in public places; private gatherings are restricted to 10 people. Businesses and public services are open with social distancing measures in place. Eating and drinking in restaurants and bars must be at a table; no more than four people must sit at a table, with the exception of families with children. You may be asked to leave your details (e.g. when visiting bars and restaurants) to enable contact tracing. Cantons have imposed further restrictions, and you should check cantonal websites for further details.

28.12.2020