swiss travel id

• ABOUT LOST IN SWITZERLAND
• HOW TO GET AROUND SWITZERLAND
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT
• SWISS TRAVEL PASS
• TICKETS AND OTHER TRAVEL PASSES
• SWISS ACTIVITIES
• ITINERARIES

LAST UPDATED: April 2, 2024

How to activate and use your Swiss Travel Pass

If you've decided that the Swiss Travel Pass is for you and you've bought it (congratulations, by the way!), this post is for you. Because it answers two questions that you probably have at this stage.

• How do you activate your Swiss Travel Pass?
• And how do you use it?

Without any further ado, let's dive right in...

Do you need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass?

I often get asked the question if you need to activate your Swiss Travel Pass once you have it or if you're good to go right away. The answer is simple.

It depends...

Don't we love when people say that? Sounds like another way to complicate things. But don't worry. It's super easy.

If you have a "normal" Swiss Travel Pass, meaning one that is valid for a certain amount of consecutive days, you can start using it right away without having to activate it first . It's valid from the date you picked when you decided to buy your Swiss Travel Pass .

However, if you opted for the Swiss Travel Pass Flex , there are a few steps you need to take. This is because your pass is valid for a flexible amount of days within one month that you haven't selected yet.

Here's what you need to do to make sure your trip runs smoothly and your pass is ready to use.

• After buying your pass, you'll receive a booking confirmation e-mail including a PDF. In that file, you'll find all the information you need about how to proceed.
• Open the  activateyourpass page.
• Enter your reference number, first name, last name and date of birth.
• The next page will let you pick the days on which you plan to travel. There's no need to select them all at once, by the way. You can always come back later if you're not sure at this point. (Please note that your Swiss Travel Pass Flex is only valid on the days that you activate in this process. You get no discounts on the other days.)
• For each travel day you activate, the system will generate a separate ticket. You can either view it online, download it as a PDF or add it to your wallet by clicking on one of the red buttons.
• In case your travel plans change and you want to swap travel dates, there's no need to panic. You can change your mind up until 23:59 of the day before the activated travel day. Please note that same-day deactivations aren't possible.

And that's it. You're good to go.

How do you use your Swiss Travel Pass?

Now that you have your all-inclusive, worry-free, knock-yourself-out ticket all set up, there's nothing holding you back.

You can use your Swiss Travel Pass throughout the whole public transport system of Switzerland. This includes all the lines in the so-called " GA Travelcard area of validity ". To sum up again what exactly you get with your Swiss Travel Pass, here's a quick recap:

• Unlimited travel by train, bus, tram and boat in Switzerland
• Unlimited travel on scenic trains like the Glacier Express and Golden Pass Line (excluding reservations fees)
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns & cities
• Free admission to more than  500 museums
• Free rides on these mountain railways: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos (and up to 50% discount on most other mountain trips like Jungfraujoch or Pilatus)
• Up to 30% discount on  SBB RailAway offers

All you need to do is have your Swiss Travel Pass handy for inspection and always show it in combination with your document of identification (passport or ID).

And that's it. Simple as that.

Enjoy your trip and don't forget to let me know in the comments below how your experience with your Swiss Travel Pass was.

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i have purchased the swiss travel pass for 15 days. I would like to know if i planned to travel to Jungfraujoch. for those mountain train and gondola ticket, do i need to book or purchase in advance? if yes, how the discount cover during online booking. Because i saw the travel advise is good to book all these ticket in advance.

Hi, thanks for your question. Yes, I recommend you book your Jungfraujoch ticket in advance to make sure you have a ticket even if it’s busy. If you book through this link , you automatically get your train reservation and you can select “Swiss Travel Pass” during the check-out process to apply your discount. Hope this helps, enjoy your time in Switzerland!

Hello, so we don't need to reserve regular trains, for instance from zurich – airport to Zermatt? I just get on the scheduled train I prefer and keep my pass handy and make sure we sit in unreserved seats?

Hi Alexi, that’s correct. You can hop on any train you like and show your Swiss Travel Pass with an identity document (usually passport) upon inspection. But you don’t need a reservation. It’s not very common to reserve seats on trains in Switzerland anyway as there is usually enough space. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip.

Swiss Travel Pass 2024: What’s Included & What’s Not (& Is It Worth It)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: August 14, 2024

When planning a trip to Switzerland, you’ll likely see the Swiss Travel Pass mentioned everywhere.

But what exactly is the Swiss Travel Pass, what does it include, where can you buy it (hint – here ), and is it worth it?

We get so many questions from our readers about the Swiss Pass (and Swiss Pass Flex), which discounts it offers, and whether it covers some of the most popular destinations in the Swiss Alps. Many first-time visitors find it a bit confusing and I keep answering the same questions all over again…

So to save all of us some time, here is our complete guide to the Swiss Travel Pass. It should answer all your questions, give you a good overview of what exactly is included (and what is not), and help you decide whether it’s worth getting it for your trip.

READ ALSO: Switzerland Itinerary for First Trip

What is the Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is a ticket for international visitors that includes unlimited travel on public transportation in Switzerland for a selected number of days. You can buy this pass for 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 days of travel.

All the information is available on the official website of the Swiss Railways (SBB), but apparently, it’s still too confusing for many people (thus, this article).

TIP: You can also find the most important information in a nutshell and purchase the pass on GetYourGuide . We recommend this website for all tickets/tours/passes and we personally use it for all our trips, not just in Europe. It’s very simple to use.

Good to know: Traveling by train is the most convenient way to cover bigger distances in Switzerland and explore many of the nicest places in the country (not just cities, but also mountains). Furthermore, public transportation in Switzerland is very efficient and we sometimes joke that you can set your watch by how punctual the trains are. So for the majority of international visitors, it doesn’t even make sense to consider renting a car, and that’s what makes the Swiss Travel Pass so popular.

Below, you can find our explanation of what is and is not included with the Swiss Travel Pass, and how it differs from the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. Read on!

Swiss Travel Pass vs. Swiss Travel Pass Flex

To make things a bit more confusing, there are two types of Swiss Pass: the regular one and the Flex Pass , which is 15% more expensive.

What’s the difference? Both these passes include exactly the same tickets and offer the same discounts (that differ depending on your age). The main difference is that the flex pass allows you to freely choose on which days you use it within its month-long validity, whereas the regular pass is valid on consecutive days (depending on which validity you choose, 3, 4, 6, 8, or 15 consecutive days).

So, for example, you are visiting Switzerland for 5 days and you plan on traveling by public transport daily during your entire stay. In that case, you can simply get a regular pass for 5 days.

On the other hand, if you are in Switzerland for a longer time, but will be visiting different regions and spending a few days in each before traveling further, then it’s better to get a flexible pass. That way, you can use it only on those days when you will be taking public transportation a lot. Further below, you can find a bit more information about how to use both these passes.

Important to know! This is where it starts to get confusing to foreigners visiting Switzerland for the first time because they think that they will be using public transport every day, also in the mountains. But there is a big difference between let’s say an inter-city train between Zurich and Geneva or a train that brings you to Gornergrat in Zermatt or Jungfraujoch in Berner Oberland.

!!! The majority of gondolas, funiculars, and mountain trains are not part of the Swiss public transport network (and thus not included with the Swiss Travel Pass). However, to make things yet a bit more confusing, there are a couple of exceptions here too. You can find more info below, but first – how much does it cost.

How to use Swiss Travel Pass & Travel Pass Flex

For all passes , you can either print it on a white A4 paper or show an electronic version of the pass on your smartphone or tablet. You can also add it to your Apple Wallet, for example. Since the pass is issued in your name, you might be asked to show your ID as well.

Using the regular Swiss Travel Pass is pretty straightforward since it’s valid for a set number of consecutive days. You’ll simply have to show a printed or electronic version of the pass.

Using the Flex Pass is a bit more complex since you can choose the specific dates on which you will be using it. To avoid misunderstandings, you will have to activate the dates on which you want to use your pass online on this website . It’s important to activate the dates before your first journey, so e.g. you cannot do it when you are already on a train.

You will get all the information and clear instructions when you get the pass, so don’t worry about it too much in advance. Also, you can still adjust your chosen dates as long as you do it before midnight at the start of the day on which you want to use it.

How much does the Swiss Travel Pass cost in 2024?

The price of the Swiss Travel Pass depends on several factors: your age, the number of days, and whether you opt for a regular pass or flex. In addition, you can choose to travel in the 2nd Class or upgrade to 1st Class.

Additional discounts: Children under 6 are free of charge. Children from 6 to 16 travel free when accompanied by a paying parent (you need to order a ticket for them, but it’s free, and you will get the necessary instructions). Youth from 16 to 25 get almost 30% discount.

Here are the prices of the regular pass in Second Class in 2024 for adults:

3 DAYS: 244 CHF. 4 DAYS: 295 CHF. 6 DAYS: 379 CHF. 8 DAYS: 419 CHF. 15 DAYS: 459 CHF.

Good to know: Flex Pass costs 15% more and you’ll have to pay over 55% extra if you opt for First Class tickets.

As you can see, the longer the duration, the cheaper the price that you pay per day. If you just get it for 3 days, it costs you about 81 CHF per day, whereas if you get it for two weeks, it costs you just around 30 CHF per day – a huge difference!

Further below, you can find our observations on whether it’s worth getting the Swiss Travel Pass. But first, let’s take a look at what exactly is included.

What is included with the Swiss Travel Pass

This is what IS INCLUDED with the Swiss Travel Pass:

• Unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats that belong to the public transport network. So all the inter-city trains as well as trams and buses in more than 90 towns and cities are included. Passenger ferries (not cruises) on Lake Lucerne or the lakes near Interlaken are included as well.
• Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains (however, there might be extra fees for advance seat reservations). These include the famous Bernina Express, Glacier Express, Golden Pass Line, and a few other panoramic train routes.
• Free entry to over 500 museums in Switzerland . You can find a complete list of all the museums here .
• Free travel on the following mountain excursions : Mt Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos. All of these are located close to Lucerne and are among our top recommendations for the best day trips from Lucerne .
• Up to 50% discount on mountain excursions all over Switzerland. So you get a big discount on the majority of the cable cars, mountain trains, funiculars, etc. There are also discounts on certain lake cruises and similar.

Below, you can find a bit more info about what is not included with the Swiss Pass (but where you get a discount).

What is not included (but gives you a discount)

Because I get this question almost daily, here is once again an explanation of what IS NOT INCLUDED with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Mountain excursions are not included with the Swiss Travel Pass (with the exception of Mt Rigi, Stanserhorn, and Stoos as mentioned above), but you do get a discount on most of them. Under ‘mountain excursions’ they mean cable cars, gondolas, funiculars, cogwheel trains, trains to the mountain peaks, etc.

Here are a few examples of the most popular mountain excursions that our readers ask about and where the Swiss Pass does not include free travel, but gives you a discount:

• Grindelwald-First cable car – 50% discount.
• Mt Pilatus cable car and/or cogwheel train – 50% discount.
• Mt Titlis gondolas – 50% discount.
• Schynige Platte railway – 50% discount.
• Oeschinensee cable car – 50% discount.
• Gornergrat railway and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise gondolas – 50% discount.
• Jungfraujoch – about 25% discount. Or about 40% if you only go to Kleine Scheidegg.

There are many other destinations in the Swiss Alps where you get similar discounts with the Swiss Travel Pass.

Also, most lake sightseeing cruises are not included, whereas regular, scheduled passenger ferries are included with the Swiss Travel Pass. So if you are taking a ferry that stops in various places, your pass will be valid, but if you want to take a scenic cruise on e.g. Lake Geneva or Lake Lucerne, you’ll have to pay for it.

Is the Swiss Travel Pass worth it?

One of the most frequently asked questions by our readers is whether it’s worth getting the Swiss Travel Pass. My answer is always the same – it depends. Here are a few examples:

If you are traveling around Switzerland for a longer time (6-10 days or more) and plan on visiting many different areas all over the country using public transportation, then the Swiss Travel Pass is definitely worth it. The pass gives even better value if you are traveling with children.

If, however, you are only coming for a few days, renting a car, and/or planning on staying in one region in the mountains (where this pass only gives you a discount and not free travel), then it’s usually not worth it. In that case, look for a regional card of the area that you are visiting. In some cases, it might be better to buy the Swiss Half Fare Card .

Most likely, your trip includes a mix of destinations that you only visit for a day as well as others where you stay for several days. In that case, you can look up the prices of all the mountain excursions that you are planning to do, see how big the discount is with the Swiss Travel Pass, add the price of the pass itself, and then compare that versus the prices of individual tickets of all the transportation and places you plan to visit. (Good luck with the math! It’s doable, but you’ll need a lot of time and patience).

In most cases, the Swiss Travel Pass is worth it, especially if you are traveling for at least 6-8 days and are visiting multiple destinations in Switzerland. Plus, it saves you lots of time, research, and math. Another advantage is that you can just take the next suitable train, boat, etc. without having to waste time looking for tickets. Some examples of regional cards include the Jungfrau Travel Pass or the  Berner Oberland Regional Card , and there are many others.

Furthermore, you can always opt for a Swiss Pass Flex that you only use on travel-intensive days. And then get a regional card to use on the other days, when you are staying in one area. The longer you stay in one place (typically, 3-4 days or longer), the better value you get with the regional cards.

Where can you buy the Swiss Travel Pass?

You can buy the Swiss Travel Pass online, at every major railway station in Switzerland (including Zurich or Geneva airports), and also at some tourist offices in the main cities.

We recommend getting it online in advance as it will save you time and stress (you’ll have enough to think about upon arrival as it is).

You can get the Swiss Pass on the official SBB website , but also via various online retailers, such as our GetYourGuide as mentioned before (our personal favorite one-stop shop for all tickets). The price is normally exactly the same everywhere and you get the same discounts for kids, etc.

At the moment of the last update, GetYourGuide allows you to cancel for free up to 3 days in advance (and it’s really easy to cancel or amend your tickets). You can buy a regular Swiss Travel Pass here and a Swiss Travel Pass Flex – here .

In any case, it’s best to buy your tickets at least a few days before your trip. When you purchase a pass, you will receive detailed instructions on how to use it (or how to activate the individual travel dates if you opt for the Flexi Pass).

So, this is our guide to the Swiss Travel Pass. I hope that it answers all your questions and helps you decide whether it’s worth it for your trip.

TIP: If you are planning your itinerary in Switzerland, check out our Switzerland travel page . It contains an overview of all our travel guides for a wide variety of destinations all over the country. We live in Belgium and Switzerland is just a half-day drive from home. So we visit Switzerland at least a few times a year – in summer as well as in winter. On our blog, you’ll find many detailed guides for all of our favorite places.

READ ALSO: Traveling to Europe: How to Plan a Trip & Useful Tips

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Wednesday 4th of September 2024

Hey there - do you think it is worth the swiss pass for a 4 day trip? I will be based in Hedingen just outside of Zurich, and plan on spending one day from Zurich to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Interlaken, and 3rd day i plan on heading to Stoos Ridge, and the last day will be spent in Zurich :)

So many different opinions and its hard to know. it seems it will cost more to just buy tickets as i go, so i am a bit stuck!

Thursday 5th of September 2024

Hi Kailey, it sounds like it could be worth it for you, but if you want to have exact numbers, you would have to research all those tickets separately and make calculations. Most people would just get the pass, even if just for the convenience of not having to research anything or make separate bookings. With the pass, you just step on any train and you are set. Enjoy your trip!

Dandy Pang wai kuen

Saturday 31st of August 2024

Hello Jurga, I would like to know is the Swiss Travel Pass included the train fee from Zermatt to Chamonix? Thank you very much

Sunday 1st of September 2024

Hi Dandy, the Swiss Travel Pass covers public transport in Switzerland. Chamonix is in France, just over the border, so you will need to buy a separate ticket for the last part of the journey (which will depend on via where you are traveling).

Jason Wetzler

Thursday 29th of August 2024

Hello! I am writing to inform that Stoos funicular is no longer included with the Swiss Travel Pass (we had regular, not flex).

It cost my wife and I 66 CHF for a full day pass with the discount provided by the travel pass.

That's very strange because on the official Stoos website they still say that "adult GA travelcard / Swiss Travel Pass" is free of charge and that the rates are valid through the entire summer season this year. Also the official website of the Swiss Railways still shows that Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos are included with the Swiss Pass. So as long as the official sources say it's included, you should have insisted on a free journey. Something is not right. Are you sure your pass was still/already valid?! Hope you enjoyed your trip nonetheless.

Tuesday 20th of August 2024

Hello Jurga. We are arriving in Zurich on 30 October and then going to Lucerne on 1 November until 5 November. We then have to go back to Zurich to fly to Amsterdam. Apart from the flying part, will the Travel Pass cover us for all of the internal travelling that we need to do back and forth. Thank you.

Hi Karen, the Swiss Travel Pass will cover all train travel and other public transport, some museums, etc. And it gives discount on many mountain rides. It could well be worth it in your case, but it really depends on what exactly you are planning to do each day. The more train trips you plan on taking, the more beneficial it is.

Monday 19th of August 2024

Hi Jurga, What about the guest pass? I booked a hotel that offers guest passes to us. I'm not sure if the Swiss Half Fare Card would be more beneficial for us or if the guest pass will suffice. We are traveling with 4 adults and 1 child (3 years old) and will be staying in Grindelwald for 4 days to cover the First Cliff Walk, Jungfraujoch, and nearby attractions.

Wednesday 21st of August 2024

@Jurga, Thanks for your reply and advice. Which pass offers the maximum discount on Jungfraujoch? It's the most expensive item in our itinerary.

The guest passes offered by hotels usually give very small discounts, sometimes free buses or some 10% discount for cable cars, but it’s not comparable with regional passes or Swiss Travel Pass or half-fare card. You can research exactly what is covered by the pass you’ll get but if you are staying in the Jungfrau Region for 4 days, you better get the Jungfrau Travel Pass.

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Swiss Travel Pass.

Discover Switzerland with just a single ticket: The Swiss Travel Pass takes international guests to the most beautiful places in the country on flexible and affordable public transport.

The Swiss Travel Pass gives you unlimited travel by train, bus and boat, as well as many other advantages.

The advantages for you.

• Unlimited travel by train, bus and boat
• Unlimited travel on premium panorama trains (seat reservation fees and/or surcharges apply)
• Unlimited use of public transport in more than 90 towns & cities
• Free admission to more than  500 museums Link opens in new window.
• Mountain excursions included: Rigi, Stanserhorn and Stoos
• Discount of up to 50% on other mountain excursions
• Discount of up to 50% on leisure travel offers

Swiss Family Card.

With the Swiss Family Card, children aged at least 6 and under 16 travel free of charge when accompanied by a parent with a valid Swiss Travel Pass. 

Offers for adults aged 25 or over.

Choose 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 consecutive days of travel.

Prices effective until 31.12.2024. Prices and product specifications subject to change.

Swiss Travel Pass Flex.

Valid on 3, 4, 6, 8 or 15 freely selectable days within one month.

Offers for young persons under 25.

The Swiss Travel Pass Youth gives young persons under 25 a 30% discount on the Swiss Travel Pass. It offers the same validity.

Swiss Travel Pass Youth.

Swiss travel pass flex youth., important information about the swiss travel pass..

• The Swiss Travel Pass has been developed for guests from abroad. It is available to persons permanently resident outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
• The Swiss Travel Pass is available online or at any staffed public transport point of sale.
• For online purchasing, purchase as a “guest”. You do not need a login.
• The Swiss Travel Pass and the Swiss Family Card cannot be loaded onto a SwissPass card. You will not receive a customer number or an additional card.
• Children aged under 6 travel free. 

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Book flights, reserve seats and access your digital boarding passes. With the SWISS app, your mobile travel companion for journeys with the Lufthansa Group network airlines, you can do all this and more. Push notifications will inform you of your flight’s status in real time, so you are kept up to date throughout your journey. With the SWISS app you are always well informed, from booking your flight to the arrival of your baggage at your destination so you can rest assured that your journey will run smoothly. Your personal data and personalized services can all be conveniently managed on your smartphone. In short, the SWISS app ensures you are well informed about all aspects of your flight. The main features of the SWISS app: Before your flight • Book your flight, reserve your seat and add your baggage: All this can be done conveniently in the app. You can also book a rental car or reserve or change your seat on the plane if you need to. With the app, you also have the option to add additional baggage. • Online check-in: Use the SWISS app to check in with ease for all flights operated by Lufthansa Group Network Airlines. Your digital flight ticket will be sent directly to your smartphone. Use the app to show your mobile boarding pass at the airport. • Travel ID and SWISS Miles and More: You now have the option of adding several payment methods to your Travel ID account so you can pay seamlessly and easily anytime and anywhere. To log in, use your Travel ID or SWISS Miles & More login credentials. Enter your personal data and personalized services to adapt the SWISS app to your needs. • Real-time information and flight status: In the 24 hours before your flight, your personal travel assistant will inform you of all important updates about your trip. Push notifications will appear on your home screen, so you always know when it’s time to check in or if there have been any gate changes. This way you always have an overview of your flight and the most current information. During the flight • Flight ticket and on-board services: With the SWISS app, you always have your mobile boarding pass and on-board services in your pocket, even during the flight and when you’re offline. This means you receive important flight information when you need it, ensuring that any changes to your flight don’t come as a surprise. After the flight • Track your baggage: Your digital travel companion is also there to lend a helping hand after landing. You can easily track your checked baggage in the SWISS app so you can arrive relaxed at your destination. With the SWISS app, you can enjoy a carefree journey. From booking your flights and rental cars to receiving automatic information and updates on the day of travel, the smartphone app is your handy travel companion. You can also manage your personal data while on the go. Download the SWISS app now and enjoy your flight! Your personal travel assistant is there for you before, during and after your journey. Find out about our flight offers at swiss.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X to stay up to date. If you have any questions or require support, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You can contact us at https://www.swiss.com/ch/en/customer-support/faq.

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4.3K Ratings

Amazing airline

Clean, timely, modern, amazing food offers on all classes. Love its destinations as a connecting in Zurich One request is to consider changing seats within the same class, or offering upgrades after a reservations is made and confirmed. It seems impossible to check other seats if like prices once one is chosen. Also the passport reverification seems to be superfluous and oftentimes frequent travelers are not used to that kind of double check. Why not at the gate itself and have the gate agents remind passengers of it, or even have it available at the business and senator lounges?

An embarrassment to airline mobile apps.

I’ve used several apps from different airlines around the world and this is by far the worst I’ve used. Two of us were traveling together. After several attempts, my friend successfully checked us in via the app. No data regarding that success showed in the app, so we confirmed online via a laptop and saw we were set. An hour later the boarding passes showed up in my app but never did on his. Reviewing my own data I realized very little of my personal data had been saved in the app, including phone number and passport number. I entered the passport number at least 3 times prior to it remaining. For our return trip, he successfully checked us in. We received e-mails showing this, bit the boarding passes never showed up in the app for either of us this time. As a computer programmer I know that none of these functions are rocket-science, so I whole-heartedly think Swiss Air, which has an amazing airplane and outstanding in-flight service, should be ashamed of this app, and could hire a college intern to fix things.

Poor user experience, doesn’t do what you need

This app is disappointing from start to finish. Cumbersome check in process. You have to enter your *G card so many times, it never remembers you. You’re like a stranger to Swiss every time you fly. Whoever thought it was a good idea on your “my bookings” page just to list a bunch of destinations (at least half of them are ZRH or GVA)? Completely unhelpful. You have to go through the check in process twice every time, to get your choice of seat, because the first time your *G status isn’t considered. Your boarding pass then doesn’t come into the app. There’s no true live departure or arrival information. Booking a flight is just a reduced functionality version of the website. Swiss needs to get some designers to do some proper design thinking on the user journey - and look at apps from airlines like Delta, easyJet, BA, etc. that are so far ahead of the Swiss app it’s a joke.

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The developer, Swiss International Air Lines Ltd. , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

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Travel ID gives you universal access to the digital channels of Lufthansa Group airlines and Miles & More. The customer profile gives you the ability to use services within the Lufthansa Group as conveniently as possible and to enjoy a travel experience tailored to your personal wishes and expectations, from your first visit to the website or app until long after your journey has ended.

Good reasons to get Travel ID

When you switch to Travel ID, you will benefit from many advantages and useful services. These include, for example, the option of receiving personalised flight offers and additional services on the booking platforms of Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa and SWISS. You earn miles with Travel ID in the same way as before with your service card number, simply by entering it when booking a flight. Switch to Travel ID in just a few clicks.

Here are the benefits in detail: 

Simple login with your email address and chosen password

Universal access to the channels of Lufthansa Group airlines

Personal details and updates about your booking at a glance

Read the Travel ID privacy policy and terms of use now.

How to switch to Travel ID if you already have a Miles & More profile

You can now log in to Miles & More even more conveniently with an email address and password of your choice – using your Travel ID. This is also your universal login for Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa and SWISS, and therefore for all bookings with these airlines. Login via service card number and PIN is still possible.

How to switch:

Log in to your Miles & More account as usual.

You will automatically be prompted to switch to Travel ID.

Set your desired email address and password.

All done. Now you can conveniently use all Travel ID options available on Lufthansa Group channels and at Miles & More.

If you can currently log in with your email address and password, you already have Travel ID. In this case, you don’t need to change your profile.

How to get your Travel ID if you don’t yet have a Miles & More profile

You only need to register for Travel ID if you don’t already have a profile with either an airline or Miles & More. To register , enter an email address and set a password. The password must have at least eight characters, including one upper-case letter, one lower-case letter, one digit and one special character. You will then receive an activation link by email, which is valid for 24 hours. Check your spam folder if you have not received a link. If your email address is not accepted, you probably already have a Travel ID profile. Only one profile can be created per email address. 

How to link your Travel ID to your Miles & More account

If you have already registered for Travel ID via Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa or SWISS and also have a Miles & More profile, you can easily merge the two profiles. To do so, log in to an airline channel with your Travel ID and link the accounts on the profile page in the frequent flyer programme section.

In Ihrer Region stehen relevante Angebote für Sie zur Auswahl. Leider liegen diese teilweise auf Englisch und nicht in Ihrer ausgewählten Sprache vor. Weitere Funktionen und Informationen können Sie selbstverständlich in Ihrer gewohnten Sprache nutzen.

Hurry! Get up to 12 free private classes before it’s too late

by Leona Quigley

Published on August 2, 2023

The Swiss identity card: What it is and how it works

Having identity documentation is important no matter where you live in the world, and Switzerland is no different. Whether it be for travel, accessing public services, voting, or bar hopping, you may want a Swiss identity card if you plan on living in Switzerland for an extended period of time.  As with many things Swiss, the Swiss identity card features cutting-edge technology, which helps to protect Swiss citizens and makes for a highly secure national ID system.

If you are interested in claiming a Swiss ID card, here is everything you need to know about Switzerland’s national ID card and how you can apply to get one.

What is the Swiss identity card?

How to get a swiss identity card, learn languages at your pace.

The Swiss identity card is a personal identification document to which all Swiss citizens are entitled. It serves as official proof of identity and Swiss citizenship within Switzerland. It’s also valid as a travel document for Swiss citizens throughout the 27 member states of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Though Switzerland is not a member of the EU, its citizens enjoy freedom of movement throughout the EU.

The Swiss ID card is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children and adolescents under the age of 18. 

What does the Swiss identity look like?

The Swiss ID card is a plastic card inscribed with the personal details of the holder, including their full name, photograph, and their place and date of birth. It also features a unique personal identification number and a signature. 

The card contains a microchip that stores biometric data, such as a digital image of the holder’s face and fingerprints. It was a pioneer of modern security standards for ID cards when it was first produced in its modern form in 1995.

The card is printed in Switzerland’s four national languages ( German , French , Italian and Romansch ), as well as in English. One of the special features of the card is that it’s made of polycarbonate, an extremely durable material with excellent optical and fraud-resistant security qualities.

What is the Swiss identity card used for?

The Swiss ID card is commonly used for various purposes, including travel, access to public services, opening bank accounts and verifying identity in various transactions. It is an important document for Swiss citizens, as it establishes their legal identity and citizenship within the country.

It is worth noting that the Swiss ID card is distinct from the Swiss passport, which is another travel document issued by the Swiss authorities. While the passport is primarily used for international travel, the ID card is mainly intended for domestic identification purposes and

travel within the Schengen Area, the EU and EFTA. 

It is fortunately not too difficult to get your Swiss identity card . You can apply for your identity card online . Your application will be reviewed and, if everything is in order, you will be invited to record your biometric data. 

You can also order an ID card in person through your cantonal passport office or, if you are living abroad, with the Swiss consulate or embassy.

Express yourself

The Swiss identity card is important for personal identification and useful in emergency situations. It can be used to facilitate a variety of transactions in Switzerland and around Europe. In Switzerland and beyond, it’s a handy document to have in hand!

Leona Quigley

Leona has her roots in the South of Ireland, where she grew up on her family farm. She went on to study World Politics at Leiden University College, The Hague and then completed her MPhil in International History at Trinity College Dublin. Leona has now settled in Berlin, having fallen in love with the city. In her spare time she is working on perfecting her German in anticipation of her doctoral studies, during which she plans to study modern German social history. Her hobbies include bouldering, dancing and reading a healthy mix of history books and corny fantasy fiction. You can find more info about her on LinkedIn .

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Citizens of EU/EFTA member states Open accordion

You must have a valid passport or national identity card to enter Switzerland. In some instances, Switzerland will accept a travel document that has expired. You can find out whether this applies to you here Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality.

Citizens of non-European states Open accordion

Citizens of countries outside the EU and EFTA who are not coming to Switzerland to work may stay in the country for a maximum of 3 months if they have a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the scheduled date of departure from Switzerland and if the passport was issued less than 10 years ago.

Citizens of certain non-European countries also need a visa to enter Switzerland. You can find out if this applies to you on the page about visas for foreign nationals .

Minors travelling without a parent Open accordion

Unlike other countries, Switzerland does not have any special provisions on minors who enter Switzerland unaccompanied by family members or parents.

However, it is advisable for minors in this situation to carry a letter signed by their parents or guardian permitting such travel. The letter should contain the personal details of the parents/guardian, their telephone number and:

the parents’ names and identity document number (and possibly also a photocopy of the document);

the names, identity document number and address of any person accompanying the minor;

name and identity document number of the minor;

itinerary and dates of travel permitted by the parents/guardian.

Some communes and cantons provide a special form for this purpose (see example from the canton of Vaud). However, permission from the parents/guardian may also take the form of a letter.

Further information Open accordion

If you would like more information on what travel documents you require to enter Switzerland, on crossing borders, travelling around the Schengen Area or obtaining a visa, please consult the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) website FAQ – Entry .

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  

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 06.08.2024

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FAQ – Entry

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State Secretariat for Migration SEM

Main navigation, state secretariat for migration.

• Entry, residence & working

General disclaimer: The State Secretariat for Migration SEM can only provide information about entry into Switzerland. The rules governing entry to other countries are a matter for the authorities in those countries.

1. Travel documents

3. entry requirements, 4. duration of stay, 5. entry ban / expulsion, 6. family reunification / working in switzerland, 7. minors / school children, 8. for hosts in switzerland, 9. visa for transporting passengers or goods to switzerland, 1.1   what travel documents do swiss citizens require to enter switzerland.

Swiss citizens have a right to enter Switzerland. In order to enter the country, you must prove or demonstrate beyond reasonable doubt that you are a Swiss citizen. The following documents are accepted as proof of identity:

• passport or identity card;
• a photocopy of a valid passport or ID card;
• an expired travel document;
• an official document showing your identity and/or citizenship (e.g. a driving licence).

1.2   What travel documents do nationals of EU/EFTA member states require to enter Switzerland?

In principle, everyone needs a valid travel document recognised by Switzerland. Depending on nationality, Switzerland accepts certain expired travel documents for crossing the Swiss border: List: Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality

→ See also question 1.6: Is it possible to enter Switzerland without a valid travel document?

1.3   What travel documents do third country nationals require to enter Switzerland?

1.3.1   for a short-term stay without gainful employment (e.g. as a tourist or visitor).

The travel documents of third country nationals entering Switzerland for a short-term stay must:

• be valid for at least three months after the intended date of departure from the Schengen area; and
• have been issued within the last 10 years.

In principle, everyone requires a valid travel document that is recognised by Switzerland: List: Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality

→ See also question 1.4: Is my travel document recognised?

1.3.2   Holders of a residence permit or category D visa from a Schengen state

You require a travel document that is valid at the time of entry and during your intended stay in Switzerland. List of residence permits issued by Schengen member states (PDF, 956 kB, 02.09.2024)

1.4   Is my travel document recognised?

You can check whether your travel document is recognised for entry into Switzerland in the following table: List of travel documents to which a visa may be affixed

• Search for the country that issued the document in the table. The last column indicates whether Switzerland (CH/LI) recognises the travel document.
• If the entry is marked green, it means that the document is recognised by Switzerland.
• Entries in red mean that the document is not recognised.

1.5   What documents do stateless persons require to enter Switzerland?

The following link (section 2.5) provides information on the entry provisions for stateless persons: List: ID and visa provisions: particularities regardless of nationality (PDF, 192 kB, 31.03.2024)

Please contact the Swiss embassy responsible for the area in which you live if you have any questions: Swiss representations abroad

1.6   Is it possible to enter Switzerland without a valid travel document?

1.6.1   swiss nationals who do not have a valid travel document.

• a photocopy of a valid passport or identity card;
• for children: an extract from an official register (e.g. civil status register) and/or the original birth certificate.

1.6.2   EU/EFTA citizens who do not have a valid travel document

EU or EFTA citizens wishing to enter Switzerland without a valid travel document will be admitted if they manage to prove or demonstrate their citizenship beyond reasonable doubt. Proof of citizenship may be furnished by any appropriate means. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) suggests carrying the following documents:

• a photocopy of a valid travel document;
• an official document proving the identity and/or citizenship of the holder (e.g. driver’s licence);

It is recommended you apply for a travel document as soon as possible.

Please note that certain airline companies may not transport passengers without valid travel documents. Please check with your airline what transport conditions apply.

1.6.3   Third country nationals who do not have a valid travel document

Third-country nationals require a valid travel document recognised by Switzerland to enter Switzerland.

→ See question 1.4: Is my travel document recognised?

Exceptions apply to holders of a valid residence permit or a category D visa issued by Switzerland or a Schengen state for the purpose of transit to the issuing state.

Note: Certain airline companies may not transport passengers without valid travel documents. Please check with your airline what transport conditions apply.

1.6.4   Infants who do not have a valid travel document (EU/EFTA)

Minors generally need a recognised and valid travel document.

→ See question 1.4: Is my travel document recognised?

Infants from an EU or EFTA member state may enter Switzerland provided:

• the infant is not older than six months;
• the infant has been officially registered (e.g. in a register of births, marriages and deaths);
• the infant is accompanied by one or both parents;
• one or both parents are EU or EFTA citizens;
• one or both parents present a passport or ID card together with an official document showing the child’s birth has been registered.

If no official register exists or if for lack of time no document could be obtained, the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) advises parents of infants to carry with them their child’s original birth certificate.

Parents are advised to apply for their infant’s travel document as early as possible.

2.1   Do I require a visa?

Please check visa requirements by nationality under the following link: List: Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality

Information on special provisions regardless of nationality is available here: List: ID and visa provisions: particularities regardless of nationality (PDF, 192 kB, 31.03.2024)

A Schengen visa is valid for Switzerland and all other Schengen member states unless stated otherwise on the visa.

2.2   What type of visa do I require?

A category C visa is issued for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It is valid for the entire Schengen area and is commonly known as a «Schengen visa».

Stays for the following purposes require a category C visa:

• visiting family or friends
• participating in a sports or cultural event
• attending school or to study

Note: People intending to enter Switzerland in order to pursue gainful employment are required to hold both a valid Schengen visa and a work permit. Further information is available here: Working in Switzerland

Category D visas are issued for stays exceeding 90 days . As this is a visa for a long-term stay in Switzerland, it is also referred to as a «national visa».

A category D visa is required if you wish to stay in Switzerland for one of the following reasons:

• gainful employment
• education or vocational training
• family reunification

2.3   Which representation is responsible for the visa application?

If only one Member State is the destination, the consulate of that Member State is responsible for the visa application. If the journey includes several destinations, the consulate of the main destination (usually the longest stay) is responsible.

2.4   Where and how do I apply for a category C visa for Switzerland?

Applications for a category C visa must be submitted online using the application form provided or directly to the Swiss representation responsible for your place of residence.

The application can be submitted six months before the intended trip. Ideally, it should be submitted at least two months before travelling.

Further information is available here:

• www.swiss-visa.ch
• Visa application form
• Swiss representations abroad

2.5   Where and how do I apply for a category D visa for Switzerland?

You must apply for the category D visa in writing using the application form or directly at the Swiss representation abroad responsible for your place of residence.

You can find the visa application form here: Visa application form for a category D visa

Please note that you require a permit to stay in Switzerland for more than 90 days. For this purpose, the Swiss representation abroad will forward your visa application to the cantonal migration office for examination.

Please contact:

• the cantonal migration and labour market authorities for questions about residence in Switzerland and for information on permits: Cantonal immigration and employment market authorities
• the Swiss representation abroad responsible for your place of residence for questions about the visa application and the required documents: Swiss representations abroad

2.6   How long does the visa procedure take?

Once a Swiss representation accepts an application for a category C visa (i.e. when you have submitted the visa application, travel document, photograph and other relevant documents, your fingerprints have been taken and the visa fee paid) the application is processed and a decision is generally taken within 15 days. In exceptional circumstances, the period for processing an application may take longer, for example up to 30 or 60 days.

Applications for a category D visa are processed by the cantons (a residence permit is required). The time the responsible authorities need to process such applications may vary according to canton and purpose of stay. As a rule, one to several months must be expected.

For detailed information, please contact the competent authorities: Cantonal immigration and employment market authorities

→ See question 2.2: What type of visa do I require?

2.7   I have questions about the appointment with the Swiss representation abroad / about submitting and completing the documents

The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) cannot provide any information on this matter. Please contact the Swiss consulate responsible for the place in which the person applying for a visa lives.

Usually you can find the information you require on the embassy or consulate website.

→ See: Swiss representations abroad

2.8   Do I need travel insurance?

If you are applying for a Schengen visa, you must prove that you have medical insurance for the entire length of your stay with a coverage of up to EUR 30,000 for costs arising as a result of:

• repatriation for medical reasons;
• emergency medical assistance;
• emergency hospital care;
• death expenses, including repatriation costs of the body or remains.

If you are planning several stays in Switzerland, you should be able to show that you have adequate insurance for the duration of your first stay. You should then sign the declaration on the visa application form that you are aware of the requirement to have adequate medical insurance for any further visits.

The insurance must be taken out by the visa applicant with an insurance company authorised by the consulate that processes the visa application. A list of authorised companies is available on the consulate’s website or directly from the consulate.

The insurance can also be taken out with a company in Switzerland by a third person (i.e. the person who signed the declaration of sponsorship) in the name of the visa applicant.

2.9   I have a Schengen residence permit – do I require a visa for Switzerland?

Holders of residence permits from a Schengen member state are permitted to enter Switzerland without a visa. You can spend a maximum of 90 days in Switzerland within the last 180 days.

You are authorised to enter Switzerland without a visa if you have one of the following residence permits: Liist of residence permits issued by the Schengen member states (PDF, 956 kB, 02.09.2024)

2.10   For which countries is my category C visa valid?

Unless otherwise noted, Schengen visas are generally valid for all member states of the Schengen Agreement, including Switzerland. Occasionally, the validity of a category C visa is limited to certain countries and is noted on the visa.

A category C visa is only accepted for entry together with a recognised and valid travel document.

2.11   Do I require a visa for airport transit?

Information on the visa for an airport transit can be found under section 2.1 in the following document: List: ID and visa provisions: particularities regardless of nationality (PDF, 192 kB, 31.03.2024)

Note: Transit (or airport transit) is when a person is travelling from outside the Schengen area to another country outside the Schengen area and changes planes at a Swiss airport. The person may not leave the airport's international transit zone. There is no entry into Switzerland.

2.12   How can I appeal against a visa refusal?

To appeal against the refusal of a visa, you must contact the competent Swiss representation abroad.

The notification of the refusal is communicated by means of a standard visa refusal form. The appeal must be made in writing (German, French or Italian) with a statement of grounds.

The appeal must be made within 30 days of receipt of the refusal. The person concerned or an authorised representative (e.g. a host in Switzerland) can submit the objection here:

State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) Quellenweg 6 3003 Bern-Wabern

If you do not have an authorised proxy, you can submit the appeal to a Swiss representation abroad.

The SEM will confirm receipt of your appeal and request you to pay an advance on costs of CHF 200 (Art. 63 APA) within 30 days.

2.13   Can I travel with a valid visa in an expired or cancelled passport?

Third-country nationals may be admitted to Switzerland if they present the following documents upon entry:

• an expired or annulled passport containing a valid visa; and
• a valid and recognised passport (without visa).

However, you may be refused entry for other reasons.

3.1   What requirements must third-country nationals meet in order to enter Switzerland?

In addition to a valid and recognised travel document (→ see questions 1.3 and 1.4), the following requirements apply:

3.1.1   Requirements for third-country nationals who do not require a visa

→ See question 2.1: Do I require a visa?

• You must prove the purpose and circumstances of your stay in Switzerland and/or in the other countries you are visiting;
• You must have sufficient financial resources to cover the entire duration of your intended stay and for the return trip to your country of origin or for transit to a third country, or you must be able to obtain the necessary financial resources by some other lawful means; → See question 3.2
• You must not be the subject of an alert issued in the Schengen Information System (SIS) for the purposes of refusing entry ;
• You must not pose a threat to Swiss security, public order, public health or the international relations of any of the Schengen states;
• You must not be subject to an expulsion order or any measure banning you from entering Switzerland.

We recommend that you also carry the following documents with you:

• A return ticket valid for a maximum of 90 days or a ticket for continuing your journey to a country outside the Schengen area together with the visa required to enter the country of final destination;
• Letter of invitation to stay with private individuals or family members (no formal requirements, a copy is sufficient); → See question 8.1
• Confirmation of a reservation at a hotel (a copy is sufficient);
• If you are on a business trip, a letter from the company that has invited you, confirming the dates of your stay (a copy is sufficient). → See question 8.1

3.1.2   Requirements for third-country nationals who require a visa

• You are in possession of a valid category C visa , a valid category D visa or a valid residence permit from a Schengen state: List of residence permits issued by the Schengen member states (PDF, 956 kB, 02.09.2024)
• You must explain the purpose and conditions of your stay in Switzerland and/or in the state(s) you intend to visit;
• You must have sufficient financial resources to cover the entire duration of your intended stay and for the return trip to your country of origin or for transit to a third country, or you must be able to obtain the necessary financial resources by some other lawful means;
• You have medical insurance ;
• You must not be the subject of an alert issued in the Schengen Information System (SIS) for the purposes of refusing entry;

Note: If you plan to enter the Schengen area via a country other than Switzerland you are advised to find out about the entry conditions for the Schengen area from the representation of the relevant country.

3.2   What is meant by «sufficient financial means for a stay in the Schengen area»?

Third country nationals may be questioned by the border authorities about the purpose of their visit as well as their financial means. They may be turned away if they do not have sufficient financial means and are unable to provide details of where they will be staying and the purpose of their visit.

Sufficient financial resources can be demonstrated by showing cash, traveller's cheques, credit cards or other collaterals (e.g. bank guarantee).

Third-country nationals who remain in Switzerland at their own expense must be able to demonstrate their financial resources amounting to at least CHF 100 per day of their stay. Students with a valid student permit are required to demonstrate funds of CHF 30 per day.

Note : Persons who do not have sufficient financial means may enter Switzerland with a letter of invitation from a host.

→ See questions 8.1 and 8.2

3.3   My residence permit has expired - can I still travel?

Third-country nationals who do not require a visa can stay in Switzerland for 90 days after their residence permit has expired.

Third-country nationals who require a visa must always be in possession of a valid residence permit or visa in order to travel to Switzerland. → See question 2.4: Where and how do I apply for a category C visa for Switzerland?

If you have not yet been issued a residence permit or it is currently being renewed, the following applies:

3.3.1   Swiss residence permit

The State Secretariat for Migration recommends that you apply for a so-called "return visa" before leaving Switzerland. Contact the migration authorities in your canton of residence: Cantonal migration and labour market authorities

For travelling within the Schengen area: → See question 4.3: Can I stay in the Schengen area after my residence permit has expired?

3.3.2   Residence permit from a Schengen state

In case your residence permit is being renewed and you wish to enter Switzerland, the State Secretariat for Migration recommends that you apply to the competent authority of the country that issued the residence permit for a return visa before travelling to Switzerland.

Please note that provisional residence permits issued for the duration of the examination of an initial application for a residence permit or an asylum application, as well as supporting documents for renewal applications, are generally not considered equivalent (unless they are expressly included on the List of residence permits issued by Schengen member states (PDF, 956 kB, 02.09.2024) and thus you cannot enter Switzerland with them.

If you are abroad and wish to re-enter the Schengen area, please contact the foreign authority responsible for your place of residence.

4.1   How long are third-country nationals allowed to stay in Switzerland?

In principle, third-country nationals can enter the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

Visas with a shorter duration of stay are also issued for third-country nationals requiring a visa. The duration of the stay is noted on the visa in these cases.

Note: Third-country nationals require a permit for stays lasting longer than 90 days within a 180-day period: Residence

4.2   How is the length of stay calculated?

The days of entry and departure are included in the total duration of the stay.

The length of stay calculator helps you to calculate the lawful length of stay: Length of stay calculator  

Note: Further information on the duration of sty is available here: Requirements for entering Switzerland

4.3   Can I stay in the Schengen area after my residence permit has expired?

Persons requiring a visa may submit a visa application to the diplomatic representation of the Schengen state in which they mainly intend to stay no later than 15 days before their residence permit expires. If your main destination is Switzerland, you can extend your stay by contacting the cantonal immigration office: Cantonal immigration and employment market authorities

If you do not require a visa for Switzerland , you can stay in the country for a further 90 (continuous) days. When travelling to another Schengen member state, you should ask the competent authorities of that member state whether and under what conditions you are permitted to stay in that country.

5.1   How can I find out if I am subject to an entry ban?

You can find out if you are the subject of an entry ban by contacting the:

State Secretariat for Migration Admission and Residence Division Quellenweg 6 3003 Bern-Wabern

Tel.: +41 (0)58 465 11 11 Fax: +41 (0)31 325 93 79

[email protected]

5.2   Can I enter the country if I have been expelled?

If you are subject to an expulsion order under criminal law, you may not enter or stay in Switzerland for the duration of the expulsion order.

An expulsion order for Switzerland cannot be cancelled or suspended.

6.1   I am looking for information on family reunification

6.1.1   persons who are not in an asylum procedure.

You can obtain information on family reunification from the cantonal migration office responsible for your place of residence: Cantonal immigration and employment market authorities

Further information on family reunification is available here: FAQ Residence and Integration Criteria  (available in German, French and Italian)

6.1.2   Asylum seekers

Information on family asylum or family reunification is available here: Special procedure

Applications should be submitted in writing to the State Secretariat for Migration.

6.2   Can I work in Switzerland?

Information on access to the Swiss labour market is available here: Employment

7.1   Are there travel concessions for school children?

7.1.1   school children residing in switzerland.

Pupils who do not have a travel document or a Swiss residence permit may travel within the EU/EFTA area without a visa for school trips, provided they are on a special list.

The pupils listed are required to travel as a member of a group and need to be accompanied by at least one teacher.

The names of schoolchildren holding a residence permit type N, F or S may also be included on the list.

If a pupil does not hold a valid travel document, the list is accepted in lieu of a travel document, provided it includes a photo of the child.

The list and further information can be obtained from the competent cantonal immigration authorities: Cantonal immigration and employment market authorities

For travel to Ireland and Cyprus, the respective embassies can provide information on whether the country in question recognises the school list issued by Switzerland.

7.1.2   School children resident in the EU/EFTA area

School children from third countries resident in an EU or EFTA member state may enter Switzerland without a visa if a separate list with the names of the school children, issued by the competent authorities of the respective EU or EFTA member state, is presented.

The list of school children is recognised as a valid replacement travel document by Switzerland provided it contains a passport photo of the pupils in question.

7.2   Are minors allowed to enter Switzerland unaccompanied, or accompanied by persons other than their parents?

In principle, entry is possible for unaccompanied minors or minors who are not travelling with a parent, provided they fulfil the regular entry requirements.

→ see question 3

However, for security reasons (e.g. suspicion of child abduction), the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) recommends that minors carry a declaration of consent from their parents or the person with parental authority.

The declaration of consent should include the personal details and telephone number of the person with parental authority. It can also include the date of the trip, destination, duration and reason for travelling.

The declaration of consent must be written in one of the official Swiss languages (German, French or Italian) or in English. SEM does not have a special form for this purpose, nor are there any requirements what form such a note should take.

8.1   What are the requirements for inviting someone (either on a private or business visit) to Switzerland?

The authorities may ask third-country nationals travelling to Switzerland to visit family/friends or for business reasons to present a letter of invitation during the visa procedure or upon entry. The invitation letter must be issued by the host in Switzerland.

Information on the invitation letter is available here: Information on the invitation letter (PDF, 119 kB, 13.07.2020)

8.2   What is a declaration of sponsorship?

A declaration of sponsorship is an official document proving that third-country nationals have sufficient financial means to stay in Switzerland. By signing the declaration of sponsorship, the (solvent) signatory person resident or domiciled in Switzerland undertakes to assume the costs of illness, accident, return travel and living expenses incurred during the guest's stay in the Schengen area.

The declaration of sponsorship must cover costs for people travelling alone and for groups or families of not more than ten persons of up to CHF 30,000.

Further information on the declaration of sponsorship and how to obtain it can be found here: Information on declaration of Sponsorship (PDF, 155 kB, 06.12.2013)

9.   Visa for transporting passengers or goods to Switzerland

A distinction should be made between a notification or work permit requirement and a visa requirement .

Notification or work permit requirement :

• If the journey is made by a  company  registered in  the EU or EFTA  based on the Overland Transport Agreement between Switzerland and EU. Drivers who are third-country nationals can also make journeys to Switzerland for companies registered in the EU or EFTA under the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons (AFMP) provided they are authorised to work in the regular employment market of an EU or EFTA state.
• If the journey is made by a company registered in one of the following third countries : Albania, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Morocco, North Macedonia, Moldova, Russia, Serbia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Belarus. Switzerland has concluded an agreement with these countries on the cross-border movement of persons and goods by road.  
• Occasional passenger transport journeys (tourist trips) and goods transport  to Switzerland made by a company registered in another third country (e.g. Montenegro) may be made but require authorisation if they take longer than eight days. The driver also requires a work permit. Applications for work permits must be submitted by the employer to the competent  cantonal immigration and employment market authorities . You can find information on the application documents to be submitted here: Application documents .
• Regular passenger transport journeys  (scheduled services) to Switzerland always require authorisation irrespective of the driver's nationality or the place where the company is registered. Scheduled services require  authorisation  (web page available in German, French and Italian) from the Federal Office of Transport (FOT), while the drivers require a work permit under the law on foreign nationals. Applications for authorisation for the scheduled service must be submitted directly to the  FOT  (web page available in German, French and Italian). Applications for work permits must be submitted by the employer to the competent  cantonal immigration and employment market authorities . You can find information on the application documents to be submitted here: Application . Further information on authorisation requirements for the regular and irregular transport of passengers and goods can be found in the  joint SEM-SECO circular dated 28 February 2017 (PDF, 613 kB, 28.02.2017) .

Visa requirement:

As goods and passenger transport journeys, with the exception of transit journeys, are always regarded as gainful employment under the law on foreign nationals, the visa provisions on entering Switzerland for the purpose of working apply. Please  check the visa requirements for the relevant nationality . In contrast to the authorisation requirement, it is the nationality of the driver and not the place where the company is registered that is decisive when determining whether the visa requirement applies.

For example, heavy goods vehicle drivers from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia or North Macedonia require a visa to enter Switzerland, regardless of how long they plan to stay. Please contact your nearest  Swiss representation  to apply for the visa.

Transit journeys

The international transport of passengers or goods through  Switzerland (transit) is  not  regarded as gainful employment. The company concerned does not normally require authorisation and, depending on his or her nationality, the driver does  not  require a visa.

For example, a Serbian driver who transports tourists or goods from Serbia through Switzerland to France does not require a visa.

Last modification 16.09.2024

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