Switzerland Import Restrictions

by countryaah · Published June 2, 2019 · Updated November 3, 2019

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: