Importation into Switzerland

What goods are you allowed to import into Switzerland? When do you have to pay VAT and customs duties (tax-free limit and duty-free allowances)? Here you will find an overview of the regulations when entering Switzerland with goods.

Personal effects

Personal effects can be imported tax and duty-free. These include objects which:

  • individuals resident in Switzerland took with them when they left the country;
  • individuals resident abroad use during their stay in Switzerland and re-export.

This includes, for instance, items of clothing, underwear, toiletries, sports equipment, still and video cameras, mobile phones, laptops and musical instruments.

Personal travelling provisions

Travelling provisions can be imported tax and duty-free. These include ready-to-eat food and non-alcoholic beverages for the day of travel.

Please note: It is prohibited to bring in meat and dairy products, as well as most fruits and vegetables from third countries (i.e. non-EU countries). Check with the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) before you travel: Importation of foods by private travellers.

Other goods (souvenirs, foodstuffs, medicines etc.)

If you are importing goods (furniture, electronic items, car accessories, etc.), the following regulations apply:

Contact

Information office for customs regulations

Tel.
+41 58 467 15 15

Contact form

Print contact

https://www.bazg.admin.ch/content/bazg/en/home/information-individuals/travel-and-purchases--allowances-and-duty-free-limit/importation-into-switzerland.html