Security travel advice for Switzerland

How safe is Switzerland ?

Threat level: Low

Switzerland COVID-19 Update
Amid the new COVID-19 strain that appeared in the UK, entry to Switzerland is restricted for UK travellers.

To slow down the spread of coronavirus in Switzerland, restrictions have been imposed such as the compulsory use of facemasks in enclosed public places, a ban on gatherings of more than 15 people and retail shops must close after 19:00 and on Sundays. However, some restrictions have been relaxed on the 19th of April. Outdoor dining is now possible as hospitality establishments have been allowed to open their terrace and entertainment venues (cinema, theatre) as well as gyms have been allowed to reopen.

There are quarantine rules in place for countries that are on Switzerland's list of countries and areas with an increased risk of infection; the UK is not on this list. Since the 21st of June, travel is authorised between Switzerland and the European Union, EFTA and the UK.

To prevent contracting the disease, it is recommended to apply good hygiene practices, maintain social distancing and avoid unnecessary travel.

Switzerland Security Situation

The recommended travel advice for Switzerland is to stay cautious. The crime rate in the country is relatively low, but there are some cases of petty crime, such as theft. There is also a low threat from terror in Switzerland, but be aware there is a heightened level of terror threat globally.

Intelligent Protection International Limited has been offering Bodyguard services in Switzerland for the past decade via our office in Geneva. If you are interested in these services, please see our page: Bodyguard Services in Switzerland.

For specific security threat information with regards to Geneva, see our: Geneva Travel Advice.

Recent Security Risk Events
There are increased reports of theft and pick pocketing especially in Geneva airport and on trains to and from the airport. Tourists do represent a vulnerable target for opportunists however, these cases are isolated and travel within the country is for the most part risk free.

Basic safety precautions such as ensuring your luggage is not left unattended and keeping valuables and important travel documents close to you in person will help to ensure a trouble free visit.

Security Risks
Restaurants and bars are a prime location for pick pockets to operate. Be extra cautious of this when consuming alcohol in excessive quantities as this can lead to you being less alert and aware of what is going on around you.

There have also been some isolated incidents of tourists having their drinks spiked in popular clubs and bars which can sometimes lead to theft or sexual assault. Although these cases are rare, be wary of accepting free drinks and never leave drinks unattended.

Switzerland's International Relations

Switzerland is a valued member of the United Nations and has been involved in international peacekeeping efforts. The country also has strong diplomatic relationships with Canada, USA, as well as many other countries in and outside of the European Union.

Travelling around Switzerland

UK, or other EU/EEA, driving licences can be used to drive in Switzerland. However, UK drivers must have a motor insurance green card issued by their car insurer to drive a UK-registered car in the Schengen area. There is a risk of flooding, landslides and avalanches in some parts of the country which may affect roads in more rural areas of the country. Many mountain roads are narrow and winding as such road conditions can get severe even during the summer months.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

Emergency services in Switzerland

Police emergency: 117
Fire emergency: 118
Medical emergency: 144

Switzerland Overview

De facto capital: Bern
Largest city: Zurich
Headquarters of Europe’s United Nations and the Red Cross: Geneva
Official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh
Religion: Christianity
Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)

Visa requirements

Travellers from the UK, USA, Australia, Canada and any of the European Unions do not require a visa to enter Switzerland. Passports should be valid for the duration of the proposed stay.

Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area. As the UK is no longer part of the EU, British nationals can travel without a visa to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, to stay longer than 90 days in Switzerland whether for work, study, business travel or any other reasons, a visa will be required. Please note that visits to other Schengen countries within the previous 180 days will be cumulative and will count towards the 90-day limit.

Immunisations
Take comprehensive travel insurance for your trip when visiting Switzerland as your UK EHIC card or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) does not provide cover for state-provided healthcare in Switzerland.

It is advised that visitors to Switzerland are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is further recommended that most travellers also get a Tetanus vaccination. You may also want to consider vaccinations for Tick-borne Encephalitis as it is present in some areas of the country. Check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

Other health risks
There is an increased risk of tick bites from April to October. Be wary of the risk of tick borne encephalitis.

Consular information for Switzerland

U.S. Embassy
Sulgeneckstrasse 19
3007 Bern
Switzerland
Telephone: +41 31 357 7011
Email: Switzerland@ustraveldocs.com

British Embassy
Thunstrasse 50
3005 Berne
Switzerland
Telephone: +41 31 359 7700
Email: info.berne@fco.gsi.gov.uk

Our office in Switzerland

In 2016 Intelligent Protection International Limited opened an office in Geneva, Switzerland to better serve our Clients.

For further information on our services in Switzerland, see: Bodyguard Services in Switzerland.

Intelligent Protection International Limited - Switzerland