tourist visa to switzerland from us

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Who needs a visa? Open accordion

Citizens of EU and EFTA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) member states do not require a visa to enter Switzerland.

If you come from another country, whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality. The website of the State Secretariat for Migration provides you with an overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality .

Switzerland belongs to the Schengen Area*. If you have a visa issued by a Schengen member state, you generally do not require an additional tourist visa to enter Switzerland or any other Schengen country. Your stay must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.

If you have one of the following Swiss residence permits, you do not require a visa to enter Switzerland or another Schengen country for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies regardless of your nationality:

B permit (residence permit)

C permit (settlement permit)

L permit (short-term residence permit)

Ci permit (resident permit with gainful employment)

Legitimation card issued by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

*The 27 Schengen member states are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.

How can I obtain a visa? Open accordion

Complete a form.

There two types of visa application form .

Schengen visa for up to 90 days (Type C): This type of visa is for a stay of up to 90 days, for example for tourist purposes, to study or to participate in a cultural or sporting event. It is valid for travel throughout the Schengen Area.

If you wish to work in Switzerland, you must additionally apply for a work permit .

Long-stay visa for more than 90 days (Type D): If you wish to stay for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a Type D visa.

Submitting a visa application

You must submit a visa application to a Swiss consulate or embassy , preferably at least two months but no longer than six months before you travel.

In certain cases, you can submit your application via the online visa system .

To travel abroad from Switzerland, you must submit your visa application to the consulate or embassy of the appropriate country in Switzerland.

Additional documents

Depending on your country of origin, the Swiss consulate or embassy where you submit your visa application may request additional documents, even if you are only applying for a tourist visa. The documents may include:

Letter of invitation: The letter must be in German, French or Italian and confirm that your Swiss host (private individual or company) is expecting you. It must contain information on the length of and reason for your stay, your personal data (first name(s), surname, date of birth, nationality) and the personal data of your host. The letter must be dated and signed by your host. Further information on the letter of invitation is available in the SEM factsheet .

Declaration of sponsorship: If the Swiss consulate or embassy doubts you have sufficient financial means for your stay in Switzerland, you may have to submit a declaration of sponsorship before you are granted a visa. In this declaration, your host must confirm that they will pay for uncovered costs up to a maximum of CHF 30,000. Your host must sign the declaration and deposit it with the communal authority of his or her place of residence or with the cantonal migration authority. Further information on the declaration of sponsorship is available on the SEM website .

Travel health insurance For a short-term visa (maximum of 90 days) you must prove that you have travel health insurance that covers costs of up to EUR 30,000. The insurance policy must be with an insurance company that is recognised by the consulate or embassy processing your visa application

How much does a visa cost? Open accordion

A visa for an adult costs EUR 80.

A visa for a child (6 to 12 years) costs EUR 40.

Visas for children under 6 are free of charge.

In certain cases, the cost of a visa may be lowered or lifted completely. The cost of a long-stay visa for more than 90 days (Type D) may be increased by 50%.

What to do if you lose your travel document Open accordion

If you lose your travel document, you must report the loss immediately to the nearest police station (web page in German, French and Italian) where you are staying. You can speed up the procedure by providing a copy of your travel document.

A leaflet  describes what to do if you lose your travel document in Switzerland and how to replace your visa.

Further information Open accordion

State Secretariat for Migration SEM: Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality .

Information on tourist visas:  Foreign representations in Switzerland .

Tourist visa for Switzerland:  List of Swiss representations abroad (in French and German)

State Secretariat for Migration:  Frequently asked questions about entering Switzerland

Update April 12, 2024

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Switzerland

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Switzerland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Switzerland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Switzerland.   

If you decide to travel to Switzerland: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Reports  for Switzerland.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Security alerts and warnings.

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Quick Facts

Valid for at least six months after your planned date of departure from the Schengen area

No visa required for visits of 90 days or less

No legal requirement

No restrictions; officers may question over 10,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy bern.

Sulgeneckstrasse 19 3007 Bern, Switzerland Mailing address: P.O. 3259, 3001 Bern, Switzerland Emergency Telephone: + (41) (31) 357-7011 Fax: + (41) (31) 357-7280 Contact form The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy provides routine and emergency services for U.S. citizens. The Embassy requires appointments for routine consular services. Please schedule appointments through the online appointment system for U.S. Citizens Services. Additional information is available on the Embassy’s website , Facebook , and Twitter .

When calling from within Switzerland, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: + 41 31 357-7011 becomes 031 357-7011.

Consular Agencies

There are two part-time consular agencies in Switzerland. They provide limited services to U.S. citizens by appointment only. Please visit our website for more information on available services.

U.S. Consular Agency Geneva Geneva America Center Rue Francois-Versonnex 7 1207 Geneva, Switzerland Mailing address: P.O. Box 3259, 3001 Bern, Switzerland

U.S. Consular Agency Zurich Zurich America Center Dufourstrasse 101 8008 Zurich, Switzerland Mailing address: P.O. Box 3259, 3001 Bern, Switzerland

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s website  www.state.gov  for information on U.S. - Switzerland relations and read our Top Tips for Americans Visiting Switzerland .

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the website of the Embassy of Switzerland in Washington, D.C. for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.  
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Switzerland.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency number in Europe, including Switzerland, is “112.” You can also directly dial 144 for medical emergencies, 117 for the police, and 118 for the fire department.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Monitor media and local information sources as well as Embassy Bern’s safety and security webpage , and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
• Address specific safety concerns to law enforcement authorities in Switzerland.

Crime: The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing, vehicle break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

• Do not leave bags unattended. Most reported thefts occur at crowded tourist sites, at airports, car rental agencies, on public buses, trams and trains, and at the major railway stations.
• Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings.
• Be alert to criminal schemes. Organized groups of pick-pockets operate at major tourist sites and when conferences, festivals, shows, or exhibitions occur. Thieves frequently work in pairs. For example, one member of the pair creates a disturbance while the other steals your belongings.
• While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .
• In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 117, and contact the U.S. Embassy at +41 31 357-7011. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Alpine hazards: Switzerland is a popular destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts, including skiing, hiking, and mountain climbing. Alpine hazards such as avalanches and snowdrifts, landslides and flooding, glacial crevasses, falling rocks, sun exposure, and sudden weather changes are common year-round. Although safety standards are excellent, visitors need to be aware that public safety warnings are not comparable to those found in the United States. While hiking paths and ski slopes are clearly marked, not all possibly hazardous situations will have clear warning signs. People are expected to use common sense and caution when enjoying the outdoors.

People should:

• Stay on designated paths or slopes
• Follow the advice given by local authorities and guides
• Take note of weather forecasts and conditions
• Be in a team of two when participating in mountain activities
• Inform someone of your plans and anticipated time of return

Mountain rescues can be extremely expensive and we recommend that you have sufficient insurance coverage that includes coverage for mountain search and rescue. See our website for more information on overseas insurance coverage . The non-profit foundation Swiss Air Rescue Organization (REGA) offers a membership that waives the costs of rescue missions; many Swiss citizens are members and U.S. citizens are able to join as well. 

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. Local organizations offer counseling and assistance for victims of crime .

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.     

Swiss Banking : Most major credit cards are widely accepted, but many vendors will only accept chip-and-PIN cards. ATMs are widely available and accept U.S. debit cards. Numerous banks do not accept U.S. citizens as clients. Please see the Embassy’s website for more information on banking in Switzerland.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relationships or the organization of LGBTI events in Switzerland.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Switzerland, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets can make access difficult, but most major tourist areas have better facilities. Please see the website of the Swiss National Tourist Office for more information.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Switzerland dial 144, or 117 for the police.

Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States. Ambulance services are widely available.

The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Swiss medical facilities and care providers will ask for you to settle your bills onsite and you will have to claim a refund with your insurer later. It is common for hospitals to ask for a deposit to ensure medical costs will be covered.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Mental Health Resources : Under local law assisted suicide is legal in Switzerland, and several known organizations facilitate assisted suicide to consenting adults. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available and is free and anonymous. For those in the United States, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline by dialing 988 from a phone in the United States.  For those in Switzerland, please contact Die Dargebotene Hand (The Helping Hand), a service aimed at adults, by dialing 143 from a phone in Switzerland (assistance is available in English, German, French, and Italian); or Pro Joventute (For the Children), a service aimed at youth, by dialing 147 from a phone in Switzerland (assistance available in German, French, and Italian). 

Medications: Over-the-counter medicine is available at pharmacies and a pharmacist is on call 24/7. Information regarding the pharmacy and pharmacist on duty in your area can be obtained over the medical emergency telephone line by dialing 144. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Swiss Federal Customs Administration to ensure the medication is legal in Switzerland. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)  is common. Travelers planning high-risk activities (camping, adventure travel) should take precautions. See the website of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more details on TBE and TBE prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Traffic Safety: Road conditions are generally excellent, but traffic, engineering, and driving habits pose special dangers.

• Lane markings and sign placements may differ from those in the United States. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers and stops.
• Be aware that pedestrians, bikers, and trams generally have the right-of-way.
• In alpine areas roads may become dangerous due to snowfall, ice, or avalanches. Some mountain roads may close for extended periods.
• In some mountain areas, vehicle snow chains are required in the winter.
• Roundabouts are very common in Switzerland.
• The maximum speed limit on motorways is 120 km/h, on expressways it is 100 km/h, on roads outside urban areas it is 80 km/h, and in urban areas it is 50 km/h. Neighborhoods are typically 30 km/h.

Accidents: In the event of a traffic accident, call the police immediately at 117. Call 118 for the fire department and 144 for medical/ambulance services. 144 functions as the equivalent to the “911” emergency number in the United States.

Toll roads: If you plan to drive on motorways in Switzerland you must purchase a toll sticker (vignette), which must be affixed to the car’s windshield. These are available online, at gas stations, and at border crossings. Rental cars usually have a vignette already; be sure to check with your car rental agency. Failure to comply with traffic rules can result in large fines. For more information visist the website of the Swiss Federal Customs Administration .

Traffic Laws and Fines: While driving in Switzerland you are subject to local traffic laws.

• The minimum age to operate a motor vehicle in Switzerland is 18.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol content in the Switzerland is 0.05 percent (0.5 per mille).
• All vehicles are required to travel with their headlights on at all times.
• Use of cellular devices for talking or texting while driving is prohibited.
• Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.
• Turning right on red is illegal.
• Speeding fines vary between 20 and 300 Swiss Francs. If you exceed the speed limit significantly or engage in reckless driving the traffic violation can be referred to the public prosecutor. Public prosecutors commonly impose monetary deposit/bail on foreign visitors, which can be over 1,000 Swiss Francs. Please note that a traffic violation that is referred to the prosecutor will incur significant cost in addition to the actual fine.

See the website of the Swiss National Tourism Office or the website of the Confederation of Swiss Cantons and Communes for additional information.

Driving in Switzerland: You may drive in Switzerland with your valid U.S. license for up to one year after your arrival; then you must obtain a Swiss permit. Swiss licenses are only issued on the basis of valid U.S. licenses. Holders of expired U.S. licenses must take the Swiss driving test when applying for a Swiss license. The minimum age for driving or learning to drive is 18. Liability insurance on motor vehicles is compulsory in Switzerland and must be provided by a Swiss insurance company.

Public Transportation: Public transport in Switzerland is excellent, punctual, and safe. The websites of the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and the Swiss National Tourist Office are the best places to obtain information on fares and timetables.

• Travelers must purchase train, bus or tram tickets and   validate them by punching them in validating machines  prior  to boarding  (machines can be found near the entrance of train stations or tram and bus stops). Tickets cannot be bought on the train, bus, or tram. Failure to follow this procedure may result in an  on-the-spot fine  by an inspector. If the violator does not pay the fine on the spot, it will automatically double.
• Be aware of pick-pockets and do not leave bags unattended. Most reported thefts occur on public buses, trams and trains, and at the major railway stations.

For more information visit the website of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT) , which is responsible for public transport in Switzerland.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessed the government of Switzerland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Switzerland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Switzerland . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Home / News / Switzerland Travel Requirements for US Citizens

Switzerland Travel Requirements for US Citizens

8  Minutes

Switzerland is a small but picturesque country located in the heart of Europe, known for its breathtaking natural scenery, Alpine peaks, and charming cities. It is a popular travel destination for tourists from all around the world, who come to experience the country’s unique culture, delicious cuisine, and numerous outdoor activities. Let’s check out Switzerland travel requirements.

Switzerland has a well-developed tourism infrastructure and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the country’s most popular tourist attractions include the Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, and the Jungfrau region.

If you are a US citizen planning to travel to Switzerland, it is important to be aware of the travel requirements for your trip. This includes obtaining a valid passport, determining whether you need a visa, and staying up-to-date on any travel restrictions or health regulations due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Being prepared and informed can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Switzerland. Let’s check out some of the most important Switzerland entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Do people wonder about what are the Switzerland travel visa requirements? When traveling to Switzerland as a US citizen, it is important to have a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the country. It is also recommended to have at least two blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps. This is a Switzerland entry form. Switzerland travel requirements 2023 may include changes in visa, COVID-19, and health and safety requirements.

US citizens do not need a visa to enter Switzerland for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. However, if you plan to stay for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa.

Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, which is a group of European countries that have eliminated border controls between each other. US citizens can travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days without a visa.

In 2025, the European Union was set to implement the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This system will require US citizens (and citizens of other visa-waiver countries) to apply for electronic travel authorization before their trip to Switzerland. The ETIAS application will be completed online and will cost a small fee.

Additionally, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may be travel restrictions and health requirements in place for US citizens traveling to Switzerland. It is important to check the latest updates and requirements from the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health and the US Department of State before planning your trip. This may include proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results, quarantine requirements, and travel restrictions. Switzerland visa requirements for US citizens may vary depending on the purpose and length of their stay.

Health and Safety Requirements

What are Switzerland travel health requirements? When traveling to Switzerland, it is important to be aware of the health and safety requirements that are in place to ensure a safe and healthy trip. These requirements may change depending on the current COVID-19 situation, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations and guidelines. Switzerland travel requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic may include testing and quarantine measures for international travelers.

As of April 2023, Switzerland does not require any specific vaccinations for entry. However, it is always recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), polio, and influenza.

It is also recommended to purchase travel health insurance before your trip to Switzerland. This can provide coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip.

These Switzerland Covid travel requirements are still in place. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may be testing and quarantine requirements in place for travelers entering Switzerland. As of April 2023, all travelers, including US citizens, must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before their arrival in Switzerland. There may also be quarantine requirements depending on your vaccination status and the risk level of your country of departure. So there are a lot of Switzerland international travel requirements that travelers must know about.

Additional Measures

So what are some additional measures in terms of Switzerland travel requirements? In Switzerland, there are also health and safety measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures may include wearing a mask in indoor public spaces, practicing physical distancing, and following specific rules and regulations for restaurants, bars, and other public venues. Switzerland travel restrictions may be imposed on certain countries or regions based on their COVID-19 situation.

Another important restriction that people traveling to Switzerland must take into consideration is ETIAS. The European Travel Information and Authorization System or ETIAS Switzerland will replace the current visa-free travel system for the Schengen area plus additional countries. It will be available starting in 2025.

Overall, it is important to stay informed about the latest health and safety requirements when traveling to Switzerland. By taking the necessary precautions and following the guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Switzerland travel insurance requirements are also something every tourist must consider beforehand.

Transportation Requirements

When traveling to Switzerland, it is important to be aware of the transportation requirements and options available to you. Now let’s see Switzerland travel requirements Covid.

US citizens traveling to Switzerland must have a valid passport and may be subject to COVID-19 testing requirements or other health restrictions upon arrival. It is important to check with your airline and the Swiss government for the latest information on any travel restrictions or requirements that may be in place. What are Switzerland travel vaccine requirements?

Once in Switzerland , there are a variety of transportation options available, including trains, buses, and taxis. Switzerland has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, making it easy to travel within and between cities. You may also consider renting a car, although be aware that Switzerland has strict requirements for drivers, including a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and compliance with traffic laws. The Swiss government may update Switzerland travel restrictions in response to changing COVID-19 trends or developments.

If you choose to rent a car, it is important to be aware of the road conditions, which can be challenging in the mountainous areas of Switzerland. Additionally, be sure to have a valid credit card to pay for the rental and any necessary deposits or fees. Switzerland travel entry requirements may include proof of vaccination, negative COVID-19 test results, and other health and safety measures. This is the latest Switzerland travel restrictions update.

Money and Currency Requirements

The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF), which is divided into 100 centimes. US dollars may not be accepted in all places, so it is recommended to exchange your currency for Swiss Francs before your trip or withdraw money from an ATM once you arrive.

Switzerland is a modern country with many payment options available, including credit and debit cards. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in more remote areas.

As mentioned above, there are going to be new travel regulations starting in 2025. ETIAS Authorization Switzerland, short for European Travel Information and Authorization System (or ETIAS), will be an updated visa waiver system going live in 2025. You can check ETIAS requirements on this website. The ETIAS travel authorization system is going to revolutionize how American citizens travel.

ATMs are widely available in Switzerland, even in smaller towns and villages. However, be aware that some ATMs may charge fees for withdrawals, so it is important to check with your bank about any international fees that may apply.

Cultural and Social Requirements

Besides Switzerland travel requirements from US, there are cultural and social requirements as well. Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The language spoken in a particular region may depend on the area of the country you are visiting.

Tipping in Switzerland is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service.

Swiss culture tends to be fairly formal, so dressing appropriately for the occasion is important. While casual attire is generally acceptable, it is recommended to dress a bit more formally for business meetings, fine dining, or cultural events. It is also important to dress appropriately for the weather, especially during the colder months.

In summary, US citizens traveling to Switzerland must have a valid passport and be aware of the latest COVID-19 requirements and restrictions. It is important to research and understand the transportation options, currency and payment methods, cultural norms, and health and safety requirements before embarking on your trip. Thoroughly researching these requirements can help ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Hopefully, this article clarifies everything about Switzerland travel requirements.

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Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool . On the country’s information page, you will find entry, exit, and visa requirements. You will also find travel advisories and a link to the country’s embassy.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Entry into Switzerland and residence

Information regarding entry into switzerland and residence.

• Visa requirements
• Information and contact
• Living in Switzerland
• Information about Switzerland
• Business activities in Switzerland

Various regulations apply for entering Switzerland. A basic distinction is made between citizens of EU and EFTA countries and those of other countries. The State Secretariat for Migration is the responsible authority in Switzerland.

Information/reminders for entering the Schengen area can be useful if you are planning to visit Switzerland, expecting a visitor from abroad, or wish to invite someone from abroad. You will find information about entering into Switzerland (requirements, short-stay calculator, visa obligation, etc.) on the webpage of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

Do I require a visa? Information for entry to Switzerland, SEM  

Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality, SEM

Entry into Switzerland, SEM

The Travelcheck allows you to check whether and under what conditions you can enter Switzerland.

• Travelcheck, Federal Offic of Public Health FOPH

Third-country nationals, regardless of their visa obligation status, can use the short-stay calculator to calculate the number of days available for short stays of no more than 90 days in any 180-days period within the Schengen Area.

Calculation of short-term stays / short-stay calculator, SEM

Entry to Switzerland and residence for citizens of EU/EFTA countries

You may enter Swiss territory without a visa if you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and in possession of a valid recognised identity document.

For a stay over 90 days you will require an authorisation from the migration authority of the canton concerned. An application for authorisation accompanied by the relevant documents should be submitted to the said cantonal authority. Within 14 days after the arrival in Switzerland and before starting an employment, citizens of EU-25/EFTA have to announce themselves at the municipality of the place of residence and apply for residency permit.

• State Secretariat for Migration, SEM

List of cantonal immigration and labour authorities, SEM

Free Movement of Persons Switzerland – EU/EFTA

SEM can provide you with information on the conditions for entry and residence in Switzerland within the framework of the free movement of persons agreement

Free movement of persons Switzerland – EU/EFTA, SEM

Short stay: entry requirements for Switzerland, SEM

Residence (long stay), SEM

The various residence permits for nationals of EU and EFTA member states, SEM

Entry to Switzerland and residence (also Schengen Area) for non-Swiss citizens and nationals of countries outside the EU/EFTA

If you are not a citizen of Switzerland or of a country in the EU or EFTA, the conditions for entry to Switzerland will vary in relation to your nationality, the reasons for your proposed stay (tourism, visit, employment, studies, family reunification, etc.) and the length of your stay (short or long duration).

The website of SEM below will inform you whether or not you require a visa to enter Switzerland and on the travel documents that are recognised.

Persons who require a visa should submit their application to the Swiss representation competent for their place of residence.

ETIAS – Travel authorisation

ETIAS is a new European travel authorisation system. © ETIAS

Third-country nationals who do not require a visa to enter the Schengen area must apply online for ETIAS travel authorisation before travelling to the Schengen area. Authorisation costs EUR 7 and is valid for three years.

Currently, the ETIAS go-live is expected in May 2025 at the earliest.

More information at: ETIAS (europa.eu)

• European Commission – List of travel documents

Last update 16.01.2024

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The Helpline FDFA deals as central contact point with matters relating to consular services.

Fax +41 58 462 78 66

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What You Need to Schedule an Appointment

Restrictions to changing appointments, more actions.

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Citizens of qualified countries may be also able to visit the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program . If you do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program or are traveling to study, work, or participate in an exchange program, you must apply for a nonimmigrant visa.

Applicants for U.S. visas are required to appear in person for a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy. You must schedule an appointment for that interview, either online using this website or through the call center .

To schedule a nonimmigrant visa appointment, you must have the following information and documents available:

• A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions. If more than one person is included in your passport, each person desiring a visa must submit an application;
• Your visa application (MRV) fee payment receipt;
• Your DS-160 confirmation page;
• Your e-mail address; and
• If applicable, required documents based on visa class (such as a petition approval for petition-based visas; more information about visa types and information about each can be found here ).

Applicants are limited to the number of times they can reschedule their appointments. Please plan accordingly so that you are not required to pay another visa application fee.

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