Switzerland lifts all COVID-19 travel restrictions

Alpine adventures, iconic rail journeys, and chocolate box chalets await travelers this summer as Switzerland drops all pandemic-related restrictions in place for tourists on May 2.

In April, Switzerland dropped all of its remaining domestic restrictions, including the obligation to wear a mask and to self-isolate after a positive test result. Swiss COVID-19 certificates, used to enter public venues, were also done away with.

Now, Switzerland is ready to drop its pandemic rules at the border, just as its mountain and lakeside resorts, and Michelin-starred dining cities get ready for the busy summer travel season.

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People enjoying the summer in the city on the banks of the Rhine in Basel © Switzerland Tourism

Currently, most countries outside of the EU and Schengen Zone remain on Switzerland's list of high-risk countries. This means people from those places who are not vaccinated or only partially vaccinated are banned from entering, including American and British tourists.

That will change on May 2 when all visitors, regardless of departure point and vaccination status, will be subject to normal visa requirements again. Visitors do not need to show any proof of vaccination or negative tests and do not need to fill out a passenger locator form.

"With effect from May 2, 2022, entry into Switzerland from all countries in the world will again be possible as before the pandemic," the tourism board said in a statement. "Protective measures due to the coronavirus no longer apply in Switzerland."

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Hikers at Broc, Gorges de la Jogne, Schluchtenwanderung — Broc, Gorges de la Jogne, Schluchtenwanderung, Pays d'Enhaut © Switzerland Tourism

Many countries in Europe have already dropped entry requirements but Switzerland's neighbours — France, Italy, Austria, and Germany — still have varying strict measures in place. If you're planning to travel between these countries or your trip to Switzerland involves a transit in one of them, you should check each country's entry rules ahead of departure.

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