Customs & Import Guide

Import your household goods and vehicles duty-free to Switzerland

Duty-Free Eligible24 Month Deadline
24 months
Import Deadline
6+ months
Ownership Required
Form 18.44
Required Document
0% Duty
For Eligible Items

Duty-Free Import Eligibility

When moving your residence to Switzerland, you can import your household goods and personal effects duty-free if they meet specific criteria. Items must have been owned and used for at least 6 months before your move, and all goods must arrive within 24 months of your change of residence.

The process requires completing Form 18.44 with a detailed inventory and presenting proper documentation at customs. Proper preparation ensures smooth clearance and avoids delays or additional costs.

Form 18.44 Requirements

Documentation

  • Complete inventory list with estimated values
  • Swiss residence permit and commune registration
  • Proof of previous residence abroad
  • Passport and identification documents

Eligibility Criteria

  • Items owned and used for 6+ months
  • Personal/household use only (not commercial)
  • One-time benefit per person
  • Genuine change of residence to Switzerland

Important Deadlines

  • 24-month import deadline from arrival
  • Submit Form 18.44 before goods arrive
  • Allow 2-4 weeks for processing
  • Multiple shipments allowed within deadline

Restricted & Prohibited Goods

Important Restrictions

Certain items are restricted or prohibited from import into Switzerland. Always check the Tares databasefor specific goods before shipping.

Weapons & Ammunition

Requires special permits and registration

  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Knives with blades over 12cm
  • Pepper spray
  • Tasers and stun guns

Food & Agricultural Products

Subject to veterinary and phytosanitary controls

  • Fresh meat and dairy products
  • Plants and seeds
  • Soil and fertilizers
  • Honey and bee products

Controlled Substances

Medical prescriptions may be required

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances
  • Certain medications
  • Precursor chemicals

Cultural & Luxury Goods

May require certificates of authenticity or CITES permits

  • Antiques and cultural artifacts
  • Precious metals and stones
  • Counterfeit goods
  • Endangered species products

Importing Vehicles

Vehicle Import Requirements

Duty-Free Import Conditions:

  • Vehicle owned and used for 6+ months abroad
  • Part of household goods relocation
  • Valid registration and insurance documents
  • Swiss technical inspection required

Taxes & Fees:

  • 4% automobile tax (if not duty-free eligible)
  • 8.1% VAT on vehicle value
  • Form 15.25 for temporary import (up to 1 year)
  • Cantonal registration and license plates required

Important Note:

Vehicle import regulations are complex and vary by vehicle type, age, and emissions standards. Contact Swiss customs or a specialized import agent for specific guidance on your vehicle.

Customs Clearance Process

Pre-Arrival Declaration

Submit Form 18.44 with detailed inventory to Swiss customs

2-4 weeks before arrival

Border Arrival

Present documents at customs office upon arrival

Day of arrival

Inspection Process

Customs may inspect goods and verify documentation

1-3 hours

Duty Assessment

Payment of any applicable duties, taxes, or fees

Same day

Release of Goods

Goods cleared for entry into Switzerland

Same day (if no issues)

Official Resources & Forms

Form 18.44 - Removal Goods Declaration

PDF Form

Official form for declaring household goods and personal effects

Access Resource

BAZG - Moving Goods Guide

Official Guide

Federal Office for Customs and Border Security comprehensive guide

Access Resource

Tares Database

Database

Search tool for customs tariffs and restrictions on specific goods

Access Resource

BAZG FAQ - Removal Goods

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about importing household goods

Access Resource

Pro Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance

  • Consolidate multiple shipments to reduce paperwork and costs
  • Keep detailed photos and receipts for valuable items
  • Work with experienced international moving companies familiar with Swiss customs
  • Declare items honestly - customs may inspect shipments randomly
  • Consider shipping restrictions for electronics and appliances (voltage differences)
  • Incomplete documentation may require customs deposit until resolved
  • Check the Tares database for specific restrictions on unusual items
  • Consider temporary import for items you may take back (Form 15.25)

Important Warnings

  • Falsely declaring goods as household effects when they are commercial items is illegal
  • Exceeding the 24-month deadline means losing duty-free eligibility
  • Incomplete or incorrect Form 18.44 can result in delays and additional costs
  • Some items may require additional permits even if part of household goods
  • Customs may require proof of 6-month ownership for expensive items
  • Professional advice is recommended for valuable collections or unusual items

Planning Your Move?

Use our interactive timeline to plan your customs clearance alongside other essential moving tasks. Start early and ensure all documentation is prepared well in advance.

View Moving TimelinePermits Guide