Taking cash in and out of Switzerland
Unrestricted amounts of cash, i.e. foreign currency and securities (shares, bonds and cheques) may be carried into, through and out of Switzerland. You are not obliged to declare this to the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS).
However, if you are questioned about cash by FOCBS staff during a check, you are obliged to provide truthful information. In particular, if you are, or are suspected of, carrying CHF 10,000 or more, you will be asked to disclose your identity, the origin, the intended purpose of the money and the beneficiary. If the amount of cash equals or exceeds CHF 10,000, a respective entry is registered in the FOCBS's information system.
Possible consequences of checks
Refusal to provide information or giving false information constitutes an administrative offence and may result in a fine. If there is any suspicion of money laundering or terrorist financing, the cash may be seized temporarily and handed over to the police. Further measures to combat crime may follow.
Legal situation in other countries
Other countries have different regulations regarding the cross-border movement of cash. The FOCBS recommends that you contact the relevant foreign authorities directly.
