New coronavirus: Recommendations for travellers

There is a risk of contracting the new coronavirus almost anywhere in the world. Many countries have closed their borders. International travel is practically impossible. 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.

  • 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.
  • We would still ask you not to undertake leisure trips.

You can find further information about public transport in Switzerland on the Federal Office of Transport website (in GermanFrenchItalian)

Travelling to Switzerland

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. The FDFA has compiled a list of  FAQs about returning to Switzerland.

Register yourself on the Travel Admin App. That way the FDFA is better able to assist you.

Entry by citizens from other states

Entry to Switzerland for citizens of other states continues to be severely restricted. Details can be found here: Entry restrictions for all persons except those from the Principality of Liechtenstein.

The Federal Council eased certain entry restrictions on 11 May – in parallel to the easing of economic restrictions. This affects people wishing to work in Switzerland. For Swiss and EU citizens, family reunification in Switzerland will also once again be possible from 11 May.

You will find FAQs on refusal of entry and the exceptions, free movement of persons and suspension of visas on the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM.

Infoline for medical questions

If you are experiencing symptoms of illness, but want to travel to Switzerland and have questions about your medical condition call our Infoline: +41 (0)58 464 44 88

If you are over the age of 65, or have underlying health conditions (high blood pressure, chronic respiratory disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, conditions and therapies that weaken the immune system, cancer), follow 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.

Planning a trip abroad

We would still ask you not to undertake non-urgent trips abroad. In many countries the borders remain closed for foreign nationals. A special permit is required to enter or leave the country. If you are allowed to enter the country, you should expect monitoring measures at international airports and you may be placed in quarantine. This situation is likely to continue over the summer.

Before you travel: Find out about the latest travel restrictions in place at your destination before travelling by contacting the embassy or consulate of the country to which you are travelling (FDFA website > Foreign representations in Switzerland).

Bear in mind that many international rail connections have been suspended and most flights have been cancelled. If you are able to travel, you should expect restrictions or delays.

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.

Further information

Protect yourself and others: The Federal Council is calling on us to carry on protecting ourselves and others. Find out here how best to do that. Continue to follow the rules on hygiene and social distancing. And be aware of what to do if you experience symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the new coronavirus: Do you have any questions regarding the risk of infection, travel and tourism, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, and protecting yourself from infection? You will find many answers here.