Bans, restrictions and authorisations

Do you want to go away on a trip with your domestic pet or purchase exclusive souvenirs, plants or foodstuffs for yourself and your friends at home? Then it is best to find out before you leave what is permitted or which authorisations must be obtained.

You can carry unlimited amounts of cash, foreign currency, and securities into Switzerland without declaration. Above CHF 10,000, you may be asked for information. Checks may occur in cases of suspicion or exceeding this limit.

The page explains the notification requirement for weapons, ammunition, and their parts when crossing the Swiss border. It covers the different categories of weapons, including prohibited ones and those needing permits, along with customs regulations.

This page outlines the Swiss regulations for importing pyrotechnic items. It details the categories of fireworks and the permits required for both private and commercial use. Import restrictions and possible penalties for violations are also discussed.

Protecting the population from health hazards and preventing unlawful use requires strict regulations for narcotics. Learn more about import rules and the role of customs authorities in monitoring.

The transfer of cultural property is crucial for protecting cultural heritage. This article explains what qualifies as cultural property and the legal requirements for importing and exporting cultural property in tourist traffic.

Importing or exporting counterfeit trademarks and designs into or from Swiss customs territory is prohibited. Cross-border counterfeits are confiscated and destroyed. Further information is available at the Institute of Intellectual Property.

Information on medicines and doping substances online, import risks, and legal regulations in Switzerland. Specific guidance on melatonin and DHEA.

Radar detectors are prohibited in Switzerland. Use or sale leads to confiscation and fines. Contact the Federal Roads Office for more information.

Citizens' band radio (CB) is used in Switzerland for private, non-commercial communication within the 27 MHz band and does not require a license as long as the devices comply with Swiss standards.

Telecommunications installations and electrical appliances that do not comply with Swiss regulations must not be sold or used. A list of these non-compliant devices is available to prevent their sale and use. Ensure you are informed about the regulations before purchasing devices from abroad.

Jammers can fully block mobile communication, impairing even emergency services. Misleading advertising often suggests legal use, but even owning these devices is illegal. Technological advancements have made these devices smaller and affordable, significantly increasing their potential to disrupt mobile telephony bands and other communication systems.