There is a risk of contracting the new coronavirus almost anywhere in the world. Many countries are keeping their borders closed. However, some states are gradually beginning to reopen them. Within Switzerland, public transport operators have been running more frequent services since 11 May.
Travelling within Switzerland
Since 11 May, public transport operators have been running more frequent services.
- Follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing on all trips and escursions within Switzerland.
- When you are less likely to be able to maintain a distance of 2 metres from other passengers, we strongly recommend you wear a face mask (How to wear a face mask correctly).
- Whenever possible, we recommend avoiding morning and evening rush hours and opting for low-occupancy trains.
- You can find further information about public transport in Switzerland on the Federal Office of Transport website (in German, French, Italian).
International travel
In many countries, borders remain closed to travellers. Others are gradually reopening them – sometimes just for certain groups of people or for certain types of journey, often under specific conditions. There are also different approaches with regard to border checks. The international situation is changing rapidly at the moment.
We still recommend that you avoid unnecessary journeys.
If you do have to travel, find out about the pandemic situation at your destination before you leave by consulting the webpages of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA (in German, French and Italian) and the State Secretariat for Migration SEM. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country to which you are travelling (Webseite EDA > Foreign representations in Switzerland) and if possible find out about the applicable rules and measures in place to tackle the pandemic.
While you’re travelling: Be sure to follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing on your travels to protect against infection with the coronavirus. The medical advice regarding individual countries continues to apply. Find out by going to www.safetravel.ch (in German or French).
Entering Switzerland
The Federal Council is closely monitoring the epidemiological situation in Switzerland and in other countries, and is deciding what measures can be eased on that basis. This includes provisions on entering Switzerland, which have gradually been adapted since mid-May.
If you are travelling to Switzerland, you must observe the applicable rules on hygiene and social distancing. You will be provided with key information regarding the epidemiological situation in Switzerland at the point of entry.
In view of the uncertain situation, entry restrictions can change quickly depending on the country of origin and the point of entry. You may be asked to complete a health questionnaire or have your temperature taken.
Consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM befor your journey where you will find FAQs on entry restrictions and exceptions, freedom of movement and visas.
There is no quarantine requirement for travellers entering Switzerland who are free of symptoms of illness.
If you are experiencing symptoms of illness, please consult the page on Isolation and quarantine and follow the instructions provided.
At establishments frequented by the public such as restaurants, shops and museums, you must follow the special sets of precautionary measures that will be explained to you on the premises.
If you are over the age of 65 or have an underlying medical condition, please refer to our recommendations for people at especially high risk.
Zurich, Geneva and Basel airports
Air passengers from abroad are still only able to enter the country through the airports at Zurich, Geneva and Basel. Notices are displayed at various points throughout these airports to inform you how to best protect yourself against becoming infected with the new coronavirus. According to the rules applicable in France, you are required to wear a face mask at Basel airport.
Returning to Switzerland
If you are a Swiss citizen and still find yourself abroad, but wish to return home, you can contact the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA if you require assistance. Register yourself on the Travel Admin App. That way the FDFA is better able to assist you. The FDFA has compiled a list of FAQs about returning to Switzerland.
Last modification 27.05.2020
Contact
Due to the extraordinary situation we are unable to respond in writing to enquiries.
Please refer instead to our webpages, which are continuously updated.
Under Contacts and links you will find contact information for the FOPH, other federal agencies and the cantons.