Switzerland 

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 in Switzerland and throughout Europe for all emergencies
• Dial 115 for ambulance services
• Dial 117 for police
• Dial 118 for fire department
• Dial 143 for suicide prevention
• Dial 145 for poison control
• Dial 147 for helpline for children and young people
• Contact the U.S. Embassy in Bern at +41-31-357-7011 to report crimes or emergencies after calling local authorities.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains)
• Scheduled commercial flights

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Monitor media and local information sources as well as Embassy Bern’s safety and security alerts.
• Report safety concerns to law enforcement authorities in Switzerland.

Crime

The majority of crimes targeting foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pickpocketing, vehicle break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

• Do not leave bags unattended. Most reported thefts occur at crowded tourist sites, at airports, car rental agencies, on public buses, trams and trains, and at major railway stations.
• Stay aware of your surroundings at tourist locations. These places include museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways. 
• Be alert to criminal schemes. Organized groups of pickpockets work at major tourist sites. They are also present when conferences, festivals, shows, or exhibitions occur. Thieves frequently work in pairs. For example, 1 member of the pair may create a distraction while the other steals your belongings.
• Sexual assault cases are rare, but attacks do occur. Review our information for Women Travelers.
• In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures or fines.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 117.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.
• Switzerland AlertSwiss App

U.S. embassy services 

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.  
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Financial scams are common in Switzerland. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include: 

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent and relative targeting 
• Free trip or luggage 
• Lotteries 
• Inheritance notices 
• Work permits and job offers

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by your GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. 
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities. 
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally. 
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel

Switzerland is a popular destination for outdoor sports, including skiing, hiking, and mountain climbing. 

• Alpine hazards are common all year. They include avalanches and snowdrifts, landslides and flooding, glacial crevasses, falling rocks, sun exposure, and sudden weather changes.
• Although safety standards are excellent, public safety warnings are not comparable to those found in the United States. 
• Hiking paths and ski slopes are clearly marked. But not all possibly hazardous situations will have clear warning signs. People are expected to use common sense and caution when enjoying the outdoors.

Safety tips

• Stay on designated paths or slopes.
• Follow the advice given by local authorities and guides.
• Take note of weather forecasts and conditions.
• Form a team of at least two when participating in mountain activities.
• Inform someone of your plans and anticipated time of return.
• Mountain rescues can be extremely expensive. We recommend that you have sufficient insurance coverage that includes coverage for mountain search and rescue. 
• The non-profit foundation Swiss Air Rescue Organization (REGA) offers a membership that waives the costs of rescue missions. Many Swiss citizens are members and U.S. citizens can join as well.
• You may wish to download the AlertSwiss app provided by the Swiss Federal Government. You can receive information and alerts in real time.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Switzerland seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Switzerland.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Switzerland prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is enforced. 

• The most common types of accessibility may include information, communication and access to services.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in lodging and general infrastructure – specifically wheelchair accessibility is difficult in many places in Switzerland.
• Accessibility is common in public transportation, communication, and information. There is a significant difference between the cities in Switzerland compared to rural areas. 
• A polite request for help is better than assuming others will assist. It shows respect for cultural norms.
• Contact the U.S. embassy in Switzerland to receive a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers. 

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• CDC Switzerland Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• Medicine and Health 
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergencies
• Dial 117 for police
• Dial 118 for fire
• Dial 144 for medical and ambulance
• The U.S. Embassy provides more local emergency assistance numbers.

Ambulance service

• Ambulance services are widely available.

Medical insurance and payments

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Switzerland. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Switzerland.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Mental health resources

If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, free and anonymous help is available.

• Dial 988 in the United States for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.
• Dial 143 in Switzerland for Die Dargebotene Hand (The Helping Hand). This service helps adults and offers support in English, German, French, and Italian.
• Dial 147 in Switzerland for Pro Joventute. This service helps youth and offers support in in German, French, and Italian.

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Switzerland. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.     
• Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Information regarding the pharmacy and pharmacist on duty in your area can be obtained over the medical emergency telephone line by dialing 144. 
• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Swiss Federal Customs Administration to ensure the medication is legal in Switzerland. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
• Over-the-counter medicine is available at pharmacies, and a pharmacist is on call 24/7.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Switzerland to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and surrogacy abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking. 
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 
• For general health information, visit the Your Health Abroad page.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Altitude

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitudes.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes

Road conditions and traffic safety

Road conditions are generally excellent, but weather, traffic, engineering, and driving habits can cause dangers.

• Lane markings and sign placements may differ from those in the United States. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers and stops.
• Be aware that pedestrians, bikers, buses, and trams generally have the right-of-way.
• In alpine areas roads may become dangerous due to snowfall, ice, or avalanches. Some mountain roads may close for extended periods.
• In some mountain areas, vehicle snow chains are required in the winter.
• Roundabouts are very common in Switzerland.
• The maximum speed limit on highways is 120 km/h, on roads outside urban areas it is 80 km/h, and in urban areas it is 50 km/h. Neighborhoods are typically 30 km/h.

Accidents

• Dial 112 for emergencies
• Dial 117 for police
• Dial 118 for the fire deapartment
• Dial 144 for medical and ambulance
• The U.S. Embassy provides more local emergency assistance numbers.

Toll roads

You must buy a toll sticker “E-Vignette” if you plan to drive on the highways.

• You must affix the toll sticker to the car’s windshield or register it electronically. 
• Toll stickers are available online, at gas stations, and at border crossings. 
• Rental cars usually have a vignette already. Be sure to check with your car rental agency.
• Failure to follow traffic rules can result in large fines. 
• For more information visit the website of the Swiss Federal Customs Administration

Traffic laws and fines

While driving in Switzerland you are subject to local traffic laws.

• The minimum age to operate a motor vehicle in Switzerland is 18.
• The maximum allowable blood alcohol content in the Switzerland is 0.05 percent (0.5 per mile).
• All vehicles are required to travel with headlights on at all times.
• It is illegal to use a cellphone while driving.
• Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.
• Turning right on red is illegal.
• Speeding fines vary between 60 and 250 Swiss francs. If you exceed the speed limit significantly or engage in reckless driving the traffic violation can be referred to the public prosecutor. Public prosecutors commonly impose monetary deposit or bail on foreign visitors. The amount can be over 1,000 Swiss francs. A traffic violation that is referred to the prosecutor will incur significant costs in addition to the actual fine.
• For more information, review the websites of the Swiss National Tourism Office and the Confederation of Swiss Cantons and Communes.

Driving in Switzerland

You may drive in Switzerland with a valid U.S. license for up to 1 year after your arrival. Then you must get a Swiss permit.  

• You must have a valid U.S. license and a valid Swiss residence visa to obtain a Swiss driver's license. 
• If you have an expired U.S. license, you must take the Swiss driving test when applying for a Swiss license.  
• The minimum age for driving or learning to drive is 18.  
• In Switzerland, liability insurance for motor vehicles is mandatory. It must be offered by a Swiss insurance company.

Public transportation

Public transport in Switzerland is widespread, punctual, and safe. 

For fares and schedules: 

• Swiss Federal Railways (SBB)
• Swiss National Tourist Office

Travelers need to buy train, bus, or tram tickets. They must validate these tickets before boarding. You can validate them electronically. You can also buy tickets using machines near the entrances of train stations or at bus and tram stops. 

• Tickets cannot be bought on the train, bus, or tram. Failure to follow this procedure may result in an on-the-spot fine by an inspector. If the violator fails to pay the fine immediately, the amount will double. 
• Be aware of pick-pocketers and do not leave bags unattended. Most thefts happen on public buses, trams, and trains. They also occur at major railway stations.
• For more information visit the website of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT), which is responsible for public transport in Switzerland.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Switzerland’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.   

Weather conditions

Switzerland's climate is temperate but varies with altitude. Winters are cold and cloudy with rain and snow. Summers range from cool to warm and humid with occasional rain showers. 

The country’s mountainous terrain presents dangers including:

• Avalanches and snowdrifts
• Landslides and flooding
• Glacial crevasses
• Falling rocks
• Sun exposure
• Sudden weather changes

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for life events like voting, getting married, the birth of a child or death. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare or insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.