Organ and tissue donor register

The federal government is creating a new electronic register in which people will be able to indicate whether or not they wish to donate organs and tissue after death. The register is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2027.

Why do we need a register?

On 15 May 2022, the Swiss people voted in favour of a change to the organ donation system. In future, a so-called extended opt-out system will apply in Switzerland.

• What is the opt-out system?

  Under the opt-out system, anyone aged 16 and over is deemed to be a donor of organs, tissues or cells after death if they have not recorded or communicated their objection to this. In Switzerland, an extended opt-out system is being introduced. This means that if no decision of the person concerned is found, the next of kin will be asked. They can refuse a donation if they know or suspect that the person would have decided against it. If no relatives can be contacted, organ removal is prohibited. The opt-out system will apply from 2027 at the earliest.

The federal government will provide an electronic register so that people can make a binding record of their decision under the future regulations. People will be able to indicate in this register whether or not they wish to donate organs and tissue after their death. The register will be a supplement to the current options allowing people to express their decision (e.g. organ donation card or living will). The advantage is that expressions of wishes can always be retrieved and cannot be lost.

When will the register be available?

The register is currently under development and is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2027. The opt-out system is then expected to come into force six months later so that people have enough time to familiarise themselves with the issue and enter their decision in the register.

The federal government will inform the population in good time about the new system and the options for expressing their decision.

How can I record my decision until then?

Until the organ and tissue donor register is opened, you can continue to record your decision in writing, for example on an organ donation card or in a living will. You’ll find more information here organ donation after death: expression of wishes (available in German, French and Italian). Even after the introduction of the register, these written declarations of one’s decision will remain valid.

Please also remember to inform your relatives about your decision for or against organ donation so that they are aware of your wishes as well.