Geneva Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Geneva, Switzerland's cosmopolitan city, welcomes millions of international visitors annually. As part of Switzerland and the Schengen Area, Geneva follows the standardized Schengen visa policy for entry requirements. The city is served primarily by Geneva Airport (GVA), which offers efficient immigration and customs processing for travelers arriving from both Schengen and non-Schengen countries. Entry requirements vary significantly based on your nationality and purpose of visit. Citizens from many countries including the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can enter visa-free for short stays, while others must obtain a Schengen visa in advance. Switzerland is not part of the European Union but participates in the Schengen Agreement, meaning border controls with neighboring France are minimal, though Switzerland maintains its own customs regulations. Travelers should prepare their documentation carefully, including a valid passport, proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds for their stay. Switzerland has strict entry standards and immigration officers may request detailed information about your trip. It's essential to verify current requirements with Swiss authorities or your nearest Swiss embassy before traveling, as policies can change, particularly regarding health-related entry conditions.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Switzerland follows the Schengen visa policy. Visa requirements depend on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the intended length of stay. The standard tourist stay allows up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period

Citizens of these countries can enter Switzerland and the Schengen Area without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits

Includes

All EU/EEA countries United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Israel United Arab Emirates Argentina Brazil Chile Mexico Uruguay Vatican City Monaco San Marino Andorra

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure date from Schengen Area. Travelers may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and return tickets. The 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Area, not per country.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETIAS)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period (per approved ETIAS)

From 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization before entering the Schengen Area

Includes

All current visa-exempt countries including US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others listed above

How to Apply: Apply online through official ETIAS website at least 96 hours before travel. Application involves providing personal information, passport details, and answering security questions. Most applications approved within minutes, though some may take up to 30 days.
Cost: €7 (approximately 7 CHF/USD). Valid for 3 years or until passport expires, whichever comes first. Free for travelers under 18 or over 70.

ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorization. Implementation expected in 2025 - check official sources for exact launch date. Authorization allows multiple entries during validity period.

Visa Required

Typically 90 days within any 180-day period for tourist visas; varies for other visa types

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must obtain a Schengen visa before traveling

How to Apply: Apply at Swiss embassy or consulate in your country of residence, typically 3-6 months before travel but no later than 15 days before departure. Appointment required. Processing usually takes 15 calendar days but can extend to 30-60 days in some cases. Must apply at embassy of main destination country if visiting multiple Schengen countries.

Required documents include: completed application form, valid passport (issued within last 10 years with 3+ months validity beyond stay), two recent passport photos, travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage), proof of accommodation, flight reservations, proof of financial means, employment letter, and visa fee (€80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free under 6). Nationalities requiring visa include China, India, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and many others. Check with Swiss authorities for complete list.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Geneva Airport or any Swiss border point, all travelers must go through immigration control. The process is generally efficient, though wait times vary depending on flight volumes and whether you're arriving from within or outside the Schengen Area.

Disembarkation and Following Signs

After leaving the aircraft, follow signs for 'Arrivals' or 'Arrivées'. Signs will direct you to either Schengen or non-Schengen immigration channels. If arriving from outside Schengen, follow 'All Passports' or 'Non-Schengen' signs.

Immigration Control

Present your passport and any required documentation to the immigration officer. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens use automated gates or separate queues. Non-EU citizens queue at designated counters. Officers may ask about your trip purpose, duration, accommodation, and return plans. They may also request supporting documents.

Passport Stamping

Non-Schengen visitors will receive an entry stamp in their passport. Check that the stamp is clear and correct. This stamp is important for tracking your 90-day allowance. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens typically don't receive stamps.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area and collect your luggage. Check flight information screens for your carousel number. Report any missing or damaged luggage to your airline's baggage service desk immediately.

Customs Declaration

Choose the appropriate customs channel: Green (nothing to declare) or Red (goods to declare). Even if using green channel, customs officers may conduct random checks. Have receipts ready for expensive items purchased abroad.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can access transportation, currency exchange, tourist information, and meet greeters.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Switzerland. Must have been issued within the last 10 years. Should have at least two blank pages for stamps.

Visa or ETIAS (if required)

Schengen visa sticker in passport for visa-required nationalities. ETIAS authorization (when implemented) for visa-exempt travelers. Keep confirmation documents accessible.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, Airbnb booking confirmation, or invitation letter from host with their address and contact information. Immigration may request this to verify your plans.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof that you will leave Switzerland/Schengen Area within the allowed period. Can be flight, train, or bus ticket. Electronic confirmation is acceptable.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, cash, or traveler's checks demonstrating ability to support yourself during stay. Switzerland recommends approximately CHF 100 per day, though this varies by accommodation type.

Travel Insurance

Required for visa applicants (minimum €30,000 medical coverage). Highly recommended for all travelers as Switzerland has very high healthcare costs. Should cover medical emergencies, repatriation, and emergency evacuation.

Purpose of Visit Documentation

Business travelers: invitation letter from Swiss company. Students: acceptance letter from educational institution. Visiting family/friends: invitation letter with host's information.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching immigration. Use a document folder or clear plastic sleeve for quick presentation.

Answer questions honestly, clearly, and concisely. Provide only the information asked for. Avoid volunteering unnecessary details that might raise additional questions.

Dress presentably and be polite and respectful to immigration officers. First impressions matter and a professional demeanor facilitates smooth processing.

Keep digital and physical copies of all important documents separate from originals. Store copies in email, cloud storage, or with travel companions.

If arriving from outside Schengen, allow extra time for immigration processing, especially during peak travel periods. Minimum 2-3 hours for connections is recommended.

Ensure your passport is in good condition with no damage, water stains, or significant wear. Damaged passports may be rejected.

If you've traveled extensively and have many stamps, be prepared to explain recent travel history, especially to countries that might raise security concerns.

Keep your phone charged to access electronic booking confirmations and documents if needed. Geneva Airport has charging stations if necessary.

Learn a few basic French or English phrases for greetings. While most Geneva immigration officers speak English, courtesy is appreciated.

If denied entry or facing issues, remain calm and ask to speak with a supervisor. You have the right to contact your embassy or consulate.

Customs & Duty-Free

Switzerland has specific customs regulations that differ from EU rules, as it's not part of the EU customs union. Geneva Airport has clear customs channels, and it's important to understand allowances and restrictions to avoid penalties or confiscation.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits (over 18% alcohol) OR 2 liters of spirits (up to 18% alcohol), PLUS 1 liter of wine or beer. Total alcohol not to exceed 5 liters.

Must be 17 years or older. Allowances apply to personal use only. Amounts exceeding limits are subject to duty. Different rules apply if arriving from Liechtenstein (higher allowances).

Tobacco

250 cigarettes OR 250 grams of other tobacco products OR 250 cigars (if arriving from outside Europe). From Europe: 200 cigarettes OR 250 grams of other tobacco products OR 50 cigars.

Must be 17 years or older. Products must be for personal use. Counterfeit tobacco products are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated.

Currency

No limit on amount that can be brought in or taken out. Amounts of CHF 10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must be declared.

Declaration required at customs using appropriate form. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and penalties. Includes cash, checks, traveler's checks, and certain negotiable instruments.

Gifts/Goods

Total value of CHF 300 per person for goods brought in duty-free. For air travelers, this includes all personal items not intended for commercial use.

Keep receipts for items purchased abroad, especially electronics and luxury goods. Items clearly for personal use (used clothing, toiletries) typically don't count toward limit. Commercial quantities will be questioned.

Food Products

Meat and dairy products: Maximum 1kg per person per day. Other food products for personal consumption allowed in reasonable quantities.

Strict restrictions on meat and dairy from non-EU countries due to health regulations. Products must be commercially packaged. Fresh produce may be restricted. Endangered species products (caviar, certain shellfish) have specific limits.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Zero tolerance policy with severe criminal penalties
Counterfeit goods - Including fake designer items, pirated media, and counterfeit currency
Weapons and ammunition - Unless properly declared and licensed; strict regulations apply
Endangered species products - Items made from protected animals/plants (ivory, certain furs, exotic leather) without CITES permits
Absinthe containing thujon above legal limits - Despite Swiss origin, high-thujon versions are prohibited
Certain plant products - Soil, certain seeds, and plants that could carry pests or diseases
Laser pointers above certain power levels - Restricted for safety reasons
Certain chemicals and hazardous materials - Explosives, flammable substances, toxic chemicals

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Allowed for personal use with valid prescription and doctor's letter. Narcotics require special authorization. Carry in original packaging with labels.
Pets and animals - Require health certificates, rabies vaccination proof (minimum 21 days before entry), and microchip. EU pet passports accepted. Different rules for birds, exotic animals.
Firearms for sporting purposes - Require advance authorization from Swiss authorities, proper licensing, and declaration. Must be registered and transported according to strict regulations.
Cultural artifacts and antiques - Items over 50 years old may require export permits from country of origin and import documentation for Switzerland.
Drones and electronic devices - Commercial drones require permits. Certain radio frequency devices must comply with Swiss regulations.
Large amounts of cash - While not illegal, amounts over CHF 10,000 must be declared and source may be questioned.
Agricultural products - Seeds, plants, and certain foods require phytosanitary certificates. Restrictions vary by origin country.
Alcohol for commercial purposes - Requires special permits and payment of duties. Personal allowances are strictly enforced.

Health Requirements

Switzerland maintains high health and safety standards. Currently, there are no mandatory vaccinations for travelers entering Switzerland from most countries, though this can change based on global health situations.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days prior to arrival in Switzerland. Proof of vaccination (International Certificate of Vaccination) must be presented.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date with MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, and seasonal influenza
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food or water
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) - Recommended if planning outdoor activities in rural/forested areas, especially spring through autumn
Rabies - Consider for travelers involved with animals or extensive outdoor activities in remote areas

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is mandatory for visa applicants (minimum €30,000 coverage including medical treatment, emergency hospitalization, and repatriation). While not legally required for visa-exempt travelers, comprehensive health insurance is strongly recommended as Switzerland has one of the world's most expensive healthcare systems. Medical treatment costs can be extremely high - a simple emergency room visit can cost CHF 500-1000+. Ensure your insurance covers Switzerland specifically and includes emergency evacuation. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for basic coverage, though supplementary insurance is still advisable. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible at all times.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations. While COVID-19 specific requirements have been largely lifted, travelers should check the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) website and their departure country's health authority for current requirements before travel. This includes any testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements that may be reinstated. Some countries may have exit requirements that differ from Swiss entry requirements. Monitor official Swiss government sources and your airline's communications for updates. If you develop symptoms of infectious disease during travel, inform airline crew and seek medical attention upon arrival.

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Switzerland for citizen services, emergency assistance, lost/stolen passports, and legal issues

Most embassies are located in Bern (capital) with consulates in Geneva and Zurich. Maintain contact information before traveling. Register with your embassy's traveler program for safety updates. Check your government's travel advisory website (e.g., travel.state.gov for US, gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for UK) for Switzerland-specific guidance.

State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)

Swiss federal authority responsible for immigration, asylum, and visa matters. Website: www.sem.admin.ch. For visa applications, contact Swiss embassy/consulate in your country.

Official source for visa requirements, extensions, and immigration regulations. Provides information in German, French, Italian, and English. For urgent immigration matters while in Switzerland, contact cantonal migration offices.

Emergency Services - 112

Pan-European emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services. Works throughout Switzerland and EU. Operators speak multiple languages.

Alternative numbers: Police 117, Ambulance 144, Fire 118, Helicopter rescue (REGA) 1414. For non-emergency medical advice: 24-hour helpline 0800 33 66 55. Calls from mobile phones work but provide your location clearly.

Swiss Customs

Federal Customs Administration (FCA) - Information on customs regulations, duties, and allowances. Website: www.ezv.admin.ch. Customs helpline: +41 58 467 15 15

For questions about bringing items into Switzerland, declaring goods, or duty calculations. Can provide advance rulings on specific items before travel.

Geneva Airport Information

Geneva Airport (GVA) information desk: +41 22 717 71 11. Website: www.gva.ch. Lost and found: +41 22 798 43 43

For flight information, airport services, accessibility assistance, and general inquiries. Tourist information desk located in arrivals hall can assist with accommodation and transportation.

Geneva Tourism

Geneva Tourism & Conventions - Tourist information, accommodation assistance, and city guidance. Phone: +41 22 909 70 00. Website: www.geneve.com

Free Geneva Transport Card provided by hotels for public transportation. Tourist office can assist with questions about activities, events, and practical information.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children, including infants, must have their own passport (parent's passport is not sufficient). Parental consent may be required if child is traveling with only one parent or with non-parents - carry notarized letter of consent from non-traveling parent(s) including their contact information and copy of their ID. Letter should authorize travel, specify dates, and be in English, French, or German. For children traveling alone or with groups, additional documentation may be required. Unaccompanied minors must use airline's unaccompanied minor service. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. Adoption papers should be available if surnames differ. Same visa requirements apply to children as adults, though some fees may be reduced or waived.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs, cats, and ferrets entering Switzerland must: (1) Be microchipped with ISO-compliant chip, (2) Have valid rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before entry (but not expired), (3) Have EU pet passport or official veterinary certificate (within 10 days of travel for non-EU countries), (4) Be at least 15 weeks old (12 weeks vaccination age + 21 days). From high-rabies countries, blood titer test required 30+ days after vaccination and 3+ months before entry. Maximum 5 pets per person for non-commercial travel. Dangerous dog breeds may face restrictions. Birds require health certificate and may need quarantine. Other animals have specific requirements - check Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) website. Airlines have separate pet policies regarding in-cabin or cargo transport. Service animals have special provisions but still need health documentation.

Extended Stays

Tourist visa/visa-free entry allows maximum 90 days in 180-day period in Schengen Area - extensions rarely granted except exceptional circumstances (medical emergency, force majeure). For stays exceeding 90 days, must apply for appropriate long-stay visa or residence permit BEFORE entering Switzerland: (1) Work: Requires job offer from Swiss employer and work permit arranged by employer, (2) Study: Acceptance letter from recognized Swiss educational institution, proof of financial means, health insurance, (3) Family reunification: Proof of relationship with Swiss resident/citizen, (4) Retirement: Significant financial means required, must be over 55, health insurance. Apply through Swiss embassy/consulate in home country. Processing takes several months - plan well in advance. Cannot switch from tourist to long-stay status while in Switzerland. Residence permits issued by cantonal authorities. Each canton has specific procedures. For EU/EFTA citizens, freedom of movement rules apply with simplified procedures.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can enter on tourist visa/visa-free status for activities like attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, or trade fairs for up to 90 days. Cannot receive payment from Swiss sources or engage in productive work. Required documents: invitation letter from Swiss company (on letterhead with company details, purpose, dates, financial responsibility statement), proof of employment in home country, business registration documents, conference registration if applicable. For paid work, employment visa required regardless of duration. Business travelers should carry business cards, meeting schedules, and proof of accommodation. Declare business purpose at immigration. Some business equipment may require temporary import documentation (Carnet ATA). For frequent business travel, consider multiple-entry visa or ETIAS when implemented.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Geneva Airport without entering Switzerland (remaining in international transit area) generally don't need Swiss visa if connecting flight is same or next day. However, some nationalities require Airport Transit Visa (ATV) even for airside transit - check Swiss embassy website. If transit requires changing airports, collecting luggage, or overnight stay, full entry requirements apply. Ensure sufficient connection time: minimum 90 minutes for Schengen-Schengen, 2+ hours for non-Schengen connections. Have proof of onward travel and visa for destination country if required. For long layovers, consider if leaving airport is worth entry formalities. Swiss transit visas (Type A) available for those requiring ATV but not entering Schengen territory.

Students and Au Pairs

Student visa (Type D) required for courses longer than 90 days. Apply 8-12 weeks before travel at Swiss embassy. Requirements: acceptance letter from recognized institution, proof of financial means (CHF 21,000 per year minimum), health insurance, accommodation confirmation, clean criminal record, motivation letter. Language students must prove course is main activity. Au pairs need separate au pair agreement following Swiss regulations: age 18-25, maximum 18 months, weekly working hours limited, must attend language courses, minimum monthly salary. Both students and au pairs receive residence permits valid for program duration, renewable if continuing studies. Can work part-time with restrictions (15 hours/week for students during term). Must register with commune within 14 days of arrival.

Medical Tourism

Switzerland attracts medical tourists for specialized treatments. Enter on tourist visa unless treatment exceeds 90 days (then medical treatment visa required). Recommended documents: letter from Swiss medical facility confirming appointment and treatment plan, proof of payment or financial guarantee for medical costs, comprehensive health insurance covering treatment and complications, accommodation arrangements, return transportation booking. Some treatments may require advance approval from Swiss authorities. Ensure passport validity covers entire treatment and recovery period. Consider accompanying person's visa if needed. Medical visa applications require detailed treatment information and may take longer to process. Private clinics may assist with documentation. After treatment, follow medical advice before flying - some procedures require waiting periods.