ETIAS for Switzerland

Citizens of eligible non-EU nations will soon need an ETIAS visa waiver before going to Switzerland. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System will be operational from 2026 and will become a mandatory entry requirement for visa-free travel..

ETIAS will make Switzerland and the rest of the Schengen Area even safer for visitors by pre-authorising third-country nationals. Tourists will be able to explore the country with greater peace of mind than ever.

Although Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, it has a close relationship with the political and economic block. Through a series of bilateral agreements, Switzerland has adopted certain aspects of EU law to gain access to the Union’s single market.

There are over 100 bilateral agreements in total, covering areas including the free movement of people and Schengen membership.

As Switzerland is a member of the Schengen Area, there are no border checkpoints with neighbouring countries. From 2026 , foreigners from outside the travel zone can get an ETIAS visa waiver to cross the external border without a visa. ETIAS will become mandatory.

Over 10 million people visit Switzerland each year, attracted by its stunning natural landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities such as skiing and climbing.

Home to numerous banks and the EMEA headquarters of thousands of international companies, Switzerland is also a popular destination for business travellers.

Switzerland is a safe tourist destination. In 2019, Switzerland ranked second in the world on the Global Finance Safety Index thanks to low risk of natural disaster, crime terrorism, and war. With the introduction of ETIAS, Switzerland will enjoy even greater security.

Another reason for the popularity of Switzerland is its central location in Europe. Well connected to surrounding nations including Germany and France, it's easy to include Switzerland on a tour of Europe.

The good news for travellers is that the same ETIAS visa waiver is valid for the entire Schengen zone. ETIAS will also be required to visit Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania which are in the process of joining the Schengen Area.

The permit is verified when crossing the external border after that visitors can travel between European countries using the same authorisation.

MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR SWITZERLAND

Individuals with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can get access to medical care in Switzerland at a reduced rate. Any travellers from inside or outside of Europe can expect to pay in full should they receive any medical treatment whilst in Switzerland.

HEALTH INSURANCE FOR ETIAS SWITZERLAND

Passport holders from eligible non-EU countries must register online for ETIAS before going to Switzerland.

Foreign citizens are not required to take out medical insurance for Switzerland. Despite not being one of the ETIAS requirements, travel insurance is recommended for all foreign visitors.

MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR SCHENGEN VISA FOR SWITZERLAND

Visitors who are not eligible for an ETIAS visa waiver must obtain a Schengen visa for Switzerland. The visa application requires additional supporting documents including evidence of travel insurance.

The medical insurance policy must be valid for the entire Schengen Area and cover a minimum of €30,000.

GOING THROUGH SWISS BORDER CONTROL

There are no border checkpoints between Switzerland and the other Schengen Area countries. Passport holders from fellow Schengen member states should carry their identification with them when moving around the border-free travel zone.

ARRIVING FROM VISA-EXEMPT COUNTRIES

Europe’s visa liberalisation programme means that citizens of several non-EU nations can currently enter Switzerland, and stay for up to 3 months, using just a passport.

Once ETIAS becomes available, individuals from visa-exempt countries will also need a visa waiver. The authorisation is linked to the applicant’s passport electronically and verified when crossing an external Schengen border to reach Switzerland.

TRAVELLERS WHO REQUIRE A VISA

Visitors from non-visa-exempt nations must have a passport valid for a least 3 months from the date of departure from the Schengen Area plus:

There are also some questions relating to the purpose and length of stay in Switzerland. In all cases, border officials have the final say on whether an individual may cross the border.

ARRIVING IN SWITZERLAND BY PLANE, CAR, AND TRAIN

Zurich Airport (IATA: ZRH, ICAO: LSZH) is the largest international airport in Switzerland handling over 30 million passengers annually.

A significant proportion of international visitors fly into Zurich, the airport is located just 6 miles (10 km) from the city centre and is well connected by train, bus, tram, and road networks.

Other important international airports are found in Geneva and Basel.

TRAVELLING TO SWITZERLAND BY CAR

Tourists visiting several European nations on one trip may enjoy the flexibility of hiring a car in Switzerland. Motorists will not be stopped as they drive across the border but foreigners should have their travel documents on their person.

INTERNATIONAL TRAINS TO SWITZERLAND

Trains connect Switzerland with neighbouring ETIAS countries, offering a fast and comfortable way to get around Europe. Popular international Swiss rail routes include:

Longer train journeys are usually overnight services, booking in advance is often required.

Stunning scenery and diverse culture make Switzerland a popular tourist attraction. Mountain activities such as skiing and hiking in the Swiss Alps are some of the country’s main draws. St. Moritz, Zermatt, and Verbier are among the best ski resorts in Switzerland.

As well as winter sports, Switzerland offers a wealth of outdoor activities which can be enjoyed throughout the year. White-water rafting, parachuting, hot-air ballooning and mountaineering are just some of the ways to enjoy Switzerland’s landscapes.

Swiss towns and cities showcase the country’s diverse culture. Bern, the capital, is known for its medieval old town and world-class modern art scene whilst the largest city, Zurich, is famed for its cool bars and nightlife.

Another Swiss city worth exploring is Basel which is renowned for its striking Germanic architecture. Geneva is also popular with tourists.

Smaller towns and villages are characterized by traditional markets, seasonal celebrations, fairs, and food, and idyllic timber chalets. Tradition is rooted in the agricultural calendar and each season has its own distinct flavour.