Switzerland customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Switzerland's duty-free allowance for non-resident adults arriving from abroad in 2026 is CHF 300 (approx. USD 330) for goods. Alcohol and tobacco limits are strict; cash of CHF 10,000 or more (approx. USD 11,000) must be declared. Meat and dairy from non-EU/EFTA countries are banned.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 L of spirits over 15% ABV, OR 2 L of wine/beer (under 15% ABV). Traveller must be 17+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$11,000
Amounts of CHF 10,000 or more (approx. USD 11,000) in cash or equivalent monetary instruments must be declared in writing to Swiss customs.
Goods duty-free
$330
Personal goods and gifts up to CHF 300 (approx. USD 330) are duty-free. Above that, duty and VAT apply. This limit is per person per day.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a medical prescription for personal use)
  • Meat, dairy, and products of animal origin from non-EU/EFTA countries (strict ban due to animal disease control)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items
  • Weapons, ammunition, and explosives without a Swiss permit
  • Endangered species and products (CITES) without a permit
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: must be accompanied by a prescription or medical certificate for controlled substances
  • Plants, seeds, and soil: require a phytosanitary certificate
  • Drones over 250 g: must be registered and comply with Swiss drone regulations
  • Satellite phones and encrypted communication devices: require a permit from the Swiss Federal Office of Communications
  • Firearms: require a Swiss import permit and must be declared

Rules worth knowing

VAT refund for tourists

Non-residents can claim a refund of Swiss VAT (8.1% standard) on goods purchased in Switzerland and exported within 30 days. Minimum purchase per receipt is CHF 300. Get a tax-free form from the shop and have it stamped by customs at departure.

Temporary import of vehicles

If you bring a car or motorcycle into Switzerland temporarily (up to 12 months), you must declare it at customs. A Carnet de Passages en Douane may be required for non-EU/EFTA vehicles. No duty if re-exported within the period.

Pets entering Switzerland

Dogs, cats, and ferrets must have a microchip, rabies vaccination (valid at least 21 days), and an EU pet passport or equivalent. Dogs must also have a tapeworm treatment if entering from a high-risk country. No quarantine if documents are in order.

Currency declaration threshold

Cash of CHF 10,000 or more (or equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared. This includes banknotes, coins, traveler's cheques, and bearer securities. Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.

Frequently asked questions

For non-resident adults, the duty-free allowance is CHF 300 (approx. USD 330) per person per day for personal goods and gifts. If you exceed this, you must pay duty and VAT (8.1% or 2.6% for reduced-rate items) on the excess value.
No, if you are arriving from a non-EU/EFTA country, meat, dairy, and products of animal origin are strictly prohibited. From EU/EFTA countries, small quantities for personal use (up to 2 kg of meat, 2 kg of dairy) are allowed, but check current restrictions.
You can bring 1 liter of spirits over 15% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine or beer (under 15% ABV). You must be at least 17 years old. If you exceed these limits, duty applies.
Yes, if you are carrying CHF 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) in cash, traveler's cheques, or bearer securities, you must declare it in writing to Swiss customs. This includes amounts in multiple currencies combined.
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or medical certificate, especially for controlled substances (e.g., opioids, stimulants). For a 30-day supply or less, no permit is needed; for larger amounts, contact Swissmedic in advance.
Dogs, cats, and ferrets must have a microchip (ISO 11784/11785), a valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old), and an EU pet passport or third-country veterinary certificate. Dogs from high-risk countries need a tapeworm treatment 1-5 days before entry. No quarantine if all requirements are met.

Official source

Swiss Federal Customs Administration (FCA)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Swiss Federal Customs Administration (FCA) before travelling.