Attention: The following information should be used as a general guideline. Requirements for each country can change frequently so make sure to contact the proper authorities before you travel to Switzerland with a pet.
Pet Important Process
For pets entering Switzerland, all the necessary treatments and steps are the same for those pets traveling to Switzerland or moving with you.
The pets must undergo the same inspections for Switzerland as they would for any other country in the EU. There are a few differences we will point out.
Microchipping, Vaccination and Certificates
These requirements are the same whether they are moving pets to Switzerland or a different country in the EU.
Microchips need to be implanted on your dog or cat before anything else. Switzerland also recognizes the standard ISO 11784 and 11785 models.
Vaccination will depend on the Swiss classification of your country for rabies risk. Pets from the U.S are low risk.
They require only the initial rabies vaccination 21 days before traveling but must have lived in the states for over 6 months.
The most important certificate is the veterinary certificate for Switzerland. Without it you pet is not allowed to enter.
Another document is the rabies certificate. You should all your pet’s forms together.
Flying Your Pet into Switzerland
For this method of transporting your pet, you will have to apply for an import permit. You can get this form from the Federal Veterinary Office of Switzerland.
It needs to be filled out and submitted at least three weeks before the animal(s) travel.
Restrictions
There aren’t many restrictions on pet imports to Switzerland but there are a few. Certain types of dog and cat breeds are (a) not allowed to enter (b) require special precautions.
Also, if your dog’s ears or tail were cropped, Switzerland has a law banning them from import. There are few exceptions such as short term travel.
In some cases, if you move to Switzerland you can bring a dog that has been docked but only after consulting the veterinary service in the Canton in order to get a valid ID.
Additional Information
Pets entering Switzerland that have successfully passed inspection are subject to a value added tax if they are imported. If you are just traveling with your pet then there is no tax.
If you are moving your dog to Switzerland, you’ll need to take it to a local veterinarian no later than 10 days after arrival. You will also need to register your dog and pay a dog tax.
Written by Damien Shields
