In order to enter Switzerland, certain goods are subject to specific controls and, regardless of their value and quantity, they require the consent of Switzerland government, preferably, license must be obtained prior to passage through the customs, preventing the goods from being retained. On this page, you will see what kinds of items are prohibited from entering the Switzerland, and which items need special documentation before exporting to Switzerland.
Import regulations
Switzerland requires an import permit for many goods. Before posting any item, senders should confirm that the addressee has any necessary permit. Senders should determine import restrictions from Swiss authorities before posting:
- Animals and animal products
- Animal, vegetable fats and oils
- Feathers and down
- Hides and skins, raw
- Metals, precious, articles made of
- Mineral products
- Optical and cinematographic instruments
- Plants and plant products
- Pharmaceutical products
- Prepared foodstuffs
- Pearls and precious stones
- Salt
- Serums and vaccines
- Vegetable products
- Weapons.
Special documentation requirements
For ECI and EPI articles going to Liechtenstein the sender and receiver details must be addressed with a valid street address in English. A Post Office Box address is not acceptable.
The sender is responsible for finding if the destination country may impose duties, taxes, brokerage fees or any other fees that may be applied on the item that is being sent. Please contact the consulate office of the country you are sending to or contact the ECI customer contact centre on 1800 007 678.
Prohibitions
In addition to items prohibited by Dangerous and Prohibited Goods & Packaging Post Guide and ECI International Courier Regulations, Switzerland prohibits:
- Absinthe
- Arms and ammunition
- Beverages and spirits
- Live trees and other plants
- Lottery tickets
- Offensive items and propaganda
- Printed books and newspapers- offensive by nature
- Spying devices, miniature
- Vegetables
Transporting food of any kind is prohibited under ECI Platinum.