foreign tourist arrivals in switzerland

International tourism, number of arrivals - Switzerland

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Swiss tourism: Which nationalities visit Switzerland the most?

Switzerland’s Federal Statistical Office (FSO) has published its annual statistics looking into where tourists visiting Switzerland came from in 2022. As tourism from Germany declined last year, a Swiss tourist office has pointed a finger at a strange culprit: Switzerland’s banking regulations.

Swiss tourism offices blames banking laws for drop in German arrivals

As is the case for many neighbouring countries, it’s easy for tourists to hop between Switzerland and France, Germany and Austria. Despite this, the number of German tourists heading to Switzerland in 2022 actually declined compared to the previous year, despite the data suggesting that citizens of the Federal Republic are still flocking to nearby Austria.

So what is Switzerland doing wrong? According to one of the country’s tourism branches, it’s all to do with banking . According to the Luzerner Zeitung , the office thinks that Switzerland’s looser banking secrecy laws are to blame for the decline in German tourism, as before the changes, many Germans would cross the border to settle their finances.

Despite the fall in numbers, Germans are still the largest group of visitors in Switzerland each year, with many German tourists heading across the border to hike up the Swiss mountains during the summer or visit one of Switzerland’s many ski resorts during the winter.

Many visitors from USA, few from Belarus

It’s not just the Germans that like to visit Switzerland from time to time, though. According to data from the FSO, the second-largest group of tourists in Switzerland come from the United States, with 962.822 arrivals from American airports from January to November 2022. On the opposite end of the list, the number of Belarusian citizens entering Switzerland was just over 2.000.

Despite having the largest population in the world, the number of Chinese arrivals in 2022 was just over 51.000, with Switzerland having had fewer Chinese arrivals than those from many smaller countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands or Israel. However, this phenomenon can partly be blamed on the extremely strict COVID arrival and departure procedure enforced by China throughout 2022.

Top and bottom ten countries for arrivals in Switzerland in 2022

According to data from the FSO, these are the nationalities that arrived in Switzerland the most in 2022.

2. United States
4. United Kingdom
6. Netherlands

While these nationalities visited Switzerland the least in 2022:

9. Lithuania
10. Estonia

For the full statistics, visit the Swiss Federal Statistical Office’s website .

Image: Shutterstock.com / Sorbis

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Switzerland - International tourism, number of arrivals

The value for International tourism, number of arrivals in Switzerland was 11,818,000 as of 2019. As the graph below shows, over the past 24 years this indicator reached a maximum value of 11,818,000 in 2019 and a minimum value of 6,530,000 in 2003.

Definition: International inbound tourists (overnight visitors) are the number of tourists who travel to a country other than that in which they have their usual residence, but outside their usual environment, for a period not exceeding 12 months and whose main purpose in visiting is other than an activity remunerated from within the country visited. When data on number of tourists are not available, the number of visitors, which includes tourists, same-day visitors, cruise passengers, and crew members, is shown instead. Sources and collection methods for arrivals differ across countries. In some cases data are from border statistics (police, immigration, and the like) and supplemented by border surveys. In other cases data are from tourism accommodation establishments. For some countries number of arrivals is limited to arrivals by air and for others to arrivals staying in hotels. Some countries include arrivals of nationals residing abroad while others do not. Caution should thus be used in comparing arrivals across countries. The data on inbound tourists refer to the number of arrivals, not to the number of people traveling. Thus a person who makes several trips to a country during a given period is counted each time as a new arrival.

Source: World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files.

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Development Relevance: Tourism is officially recognized as a directly measurable activity, enabling more accurate analysis and more effective policy. Whereas previously the sector relied mostly on approximations from related areas of measurement (e.g. Balance of Payments statistics), tourism today possesses a range of instruments to track its productive activities and the activities of the consumers that drive them: visitors (both tourists and excursionists). An increasing number of countries have opened up and invested in tourism development, making tourism a key driver of socio-economic progress through export revenues, the creation of jobs and enterprises, and infrastructure development. As an internationally traded service, inbound tourism has become one of the world's major trade categories. For many developing countries it is one of the main sources of foreign exchange income and a major component of exports, creating much needed employment and development opportunities.

Limitations and Exceptions: Tourism can be either domestic or international. The data refers to international tourism, where the traveler's country of residence differs from the visiting country. International tourism consists of inbound (arrival) and outbound (departures) tourism. The data are from the World Tourism Organization (WTO), a United Nations agency. The data on inbound and outbound tourists refer to the number of arrivals and departures, not to the number of people traveling. Thus a person who makes several trips to a country during a given period is counted each time as a new arrival. The data on inbound tourism show the arrivals of nonresident tourists (overnight visitors) at national borders. When data on international tourists are unavailable or incomplete, the data show the arrivals of international visitors, which include tourists, same-day visitors, cruise passengers, and crew members. Sources and collection methods for arrivals differ across countries. In some cases data are from border statistics (police, immigration, and the like) and supplemented by border surveys. In other cases data are from tourism accommodation establishments. For some countries number of arrivals is limited to arrivals by air and for others to arrivals staying in hotels. Some countries include arrivals of nationals residing abroad while others do not. Caution should thus be used in comparing arrivals across countries.

Statistical Concept and Methodology: Statistical information on tourism is based mainly on data on arrivals and overnight stays along with balance of payments information. These data do not completely capture the economic phenomenon of tourism or provide the information needed for effective public policies and efficient business operations. Data are needed on the scale and significance of tourism. Information on the role of tourism in national economies is particularly deficient. Although the World Tourism Organization reports progress in harmonizing definitions and measurement, differences in national practices still prevent full comparability. Arrivals data measure the flows of international visitors to the country of reference: each arrival corresponds to one in inbound tourism trip. If a person visits several countries during the course of a single trip, his/her arrival in each country is recorded separately. In an accounting period, arrivals are not necessarily equal to the number of persons travelling (when a person visits the same country several times a year, each trip by the same person is counted as a separate arrival). Arrivals data should correspond to inbound visitors by including both tourists and same-day non-resident visitors. All other types of travelers (such as border, seasonal and other short-term workers, long-term students and others) should be excluded as they do not qualify as visitors. Data are obtained from different sources: administrative records (immigration, traffic counts, and other possible types of controls), border surveys or a mix of them. If data are obtained from accommodation surveys, the number of guests is used as estimate of arrival figures; consequently, in this case, breakdowns by regions, main purpose of the trip, modes of transport used or forms of organization of the trip are based on complementary visitor surveys.

Aggregation method: Gap-filled total

Periodicity: Annual

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Topic: Private Sector & Trade Indicators

Sub-Topic: Travel & tourism

Note: This page was last updated on December 28, 2019

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Coronavirus: new rules for entry to switzerland and for people vaccinated abroad to access the covid certificate.

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(Last modification 20.09.2021)

Bern, 17.09.2021 - The Federal Council wants to prevent an increase in the number of infections caused by people returning from the autumn holidays. From Monday 20 September, travellers entering Switzerland who have not been vaccinated or have not recovered from COVID-19 will have to present a negative test result. They will then have to be tested again after four to seven days. This was decided by the Federal Council at its meeting on 17 September. The Federal Council has also set out details of how people who have been vaccinated abroad or have recovered abroad can obtain a COVID certificate.

With the autumn school holidays approaching, the Federal Council has decided on new public health requirements at the border. This comes in response to experience made after the summer holidays: data from the cantonal contact tracing offices indicates that returning holidaymakers contributed to the worsening situation after the summer. The new rules reflect the fact that the highly contagious Delta variant can cause case numbers to rise very rapidly on a regional basis. It has therefore been decided that keeping and updating a list of risk countries is no longer the most appropriate health protection measure at Switzerland’s borders.

Compulsory testing on entry for travellers who have not been vaccinated or have not recovered

Anyone who has not been vaccinated or has not recovered must present a negative test result (antigen or PCR) on entry into Switzerland, irrespective of where they are travelling from or by which means of transport they are entering the country. After four to seven days in the country, another test must be carried out, subject to a fee. The result of the second test must be sent to the relevant cantonal office. Testing is not required for vaccinated or recovered travellers who can present a COVID certificate or other valid proof of vaccination or recovery.

Entry form required for everyone

All travellers entering Switzerland – whether vaccinated, recovered or with a negative test – must also complete the entry form (Passenger Locator Form, SwissPLF). This will enable the cantons to carry out random checks to determine whether people who have not been vaccinated or have not recovered and who entered the country with a test have actually taken the second test after four to seven days.

No test or form requirement for cross-border commuters

The test and entry form requirements do not apply to travellers in transit through Switzerland without stopping, drivers who transport people or goods professionally, and cross-border commuters or people entering from border areas. The Federal Council is thus taking account of the close economic, social and cultural exchange in the border regions. Children under 16 are also exempt from the test requirement.

Risk-based inspections

More than two million people and one million vehicles cross Switzerland's borders every day. Risk-based inspections are to be carried out to ensure compliance with the new rules. Anyone required to present a negative test result and who cannot do so on entry must take a test immediately after entering Switzerland. The cantons are required to carry out random checks to ensure that incoming travellers who have not been vaccinated or have not recovered have actually taken the required second test. Fines may be imposed if these rules are breached (CHF 200 for missing test certificates and CHF 100 for incomplete forms). In international travel, the airlines and bus companies are responsible for ensuring that travellers to Switzerland have completed the Passenger Locator Form and can present a COVID certificate or a negative test result. The Federal Customs Administration and local police forces will carry out risk-based inspections on all modes of cross-border travel. In a few weeks, the Federal Council will evaluate the experience with the new entry rules and make adjustments if necessary.

The existing entry regulations remain unchanged. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) continues to operate a list of high-risk countries, which is used to determine who may enter Switzerland. Any non-Schengen state not on this list is still considered a risk country for which restrictions on entry to Switzerland apply to unvaccinated third-country nationals. As a Schengen associated country, Switzerland aligns its entry regulations as far as possible with the decisions taken by the European Union. The Travelcheck online tool can be used to check the conditions for travellers wishing to enter Switzerland from specific countries.

Swiss COVID certificate for individuals vaccinated or recovered abroad

As of 20 September, anyone who has been vaccinated abroad with a vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and who is resident in or travelling to Switzerland will be able to obtain a Swiss COVID certificate. This means that people who have been vaccinated abroad or have recovered abroad, such as tourists, can also participate in social activities here. Currently, only the certificates of countries using the EU Digital COVID Certificate are compatible with the Swiss system.

The documents can be submitted electronically. Each canton must designate a contact point for persons who have been vaccinated abroad. All cantonal contact points will be listed on a federal website. A federal working group (FDHA, FDFA, FDF) will oversee implementation together with the cantons and other agencies (data protection). The aim is to find a solution that is as efficient, straightforward and user-oriented as possible. In a transitional phase until 10 October 2021, all foreign vaccination certificates for EMA-approved vaccines will be valid for access to events or facilities requiring a COVID certificate.

As in neighbouring countries, access to the Swiss COVID certificate will not be extended to all WHO vaccines. Exceptions are being made for Swiss citizens living abroad returning to the country, non-EU citizens working in Switzerland, employees of international organisations and accredited diplomatic staff, as well as students.

Outcome of the consultation

The Federal Council had consulted on two variants for adapting the entry regulations, one with a requirement to take two tests and one with mandatory quarantine. Based on the results of the consultation, the Federal Council decided in favour of the first variant, which was found to be more practicable and should involve less additional work for the cantons.

Address for enquiries

Federal Office of Public Health Coronavirus Infoline +41 58 463 00 00 COVID-19 Vaccination Infoline +41 58 377 88 92

List of high-risk countries
Travelcheck

The Federal Council https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html Federal Department of Home Affairs http://www.edi.admin.ch Federal Office of Public Health http://www.bag.admin.ch State Secretariat for Migration https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home.html Federal Office for Customs and Border Security https://www.bazg.admin.ch Federal Department of Foreign Affairs https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

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Switzerland backtracks on mandatory quarantines for some foreign visitors.

Reservations for the Christmas vacation season had plummeted over the Covid restrictions.

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By Raphael Minder

Dec. 4, 2021

Switzerland on Saturday dialed back pandemic travel rules announced just a week ago, removing the obligation for some foreign visitors to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival, a requirement that created havoc in the country’s crucial tourism industry.

The turnaround comes after travel operators from countries such as Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands and Canada reported mass cancellations from people who had booked trips to Switzerland over the Christmas vacation season. The Swiss quarantine was ordered in response to concerns over the new Omicron variant of the coronavirus, which has been detected in a handful of cases in the country, according to Reuters .

In eliminating the compulsory quarantine, however, the Swiss government is tightening other measures. All visitors will now have to be tested for the coronavirus both before entering the country and between four and seven days after their arrival in Switzerland. The Swiss are also requiring all visitors from regions that it considers to be of high risk to be fully vaccinated. Earlier this week, Switzerland banned all direct flights from southern Africa, where the variant was first identified.

The Swiss are also expanding a requirement for wearing face masks to all indoor public events, concert halls and sports venues, and for having to show a Covid-19 vaccination passport to enter public establishments like restaurants or museums.

The latest changes in Switzerland’s rules come after more than 60 percent of Swiss voters last Sunday approved their government’s Covid policies in a referendum, including the requirement to show the vaccination passport. The referendum had been called by opponents of lockdown measures who consider them a violation of individual rights.

Raphael Minder covers Spain and Portugal, based in Madrid. He previously worked for Bloomberg News in Switzerland and for the Financial Times in Paris, Brussels, Sydney and finally Hong Kong. More about Raphael Minder

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Switzerland Visitor Arrivals

Switzerland Visitor Arrivals recorded 638,139 person in Feb 2024, compared with 585,799 person in the previous month
Switzerland Visitor Arrivals data is updated monthly, available from Jan 1996 to Feb 2024
The data reached an all-time high of 1,296,908 person in Jul 2019 and a record low of 10,610 person in Apr 2020

View Switzerland's Visitor Arrivals from Jan 1996 to Feb 2024 in the chart:

What was Switzerland's Visitor Arrivals in Feb 2024?

Switzerland Visitor Arrivals recorded 638,139 person in Feb 2024, compared with 585,799 person in the previous month See the table below for more data.

Visitor Arrivals by Country Comparison

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Switzerland Tourist Arrivals

Tourist arrivals in switzerland increased to 1456.73 thousand in february from 1360.10 thousand in january of 2024. tourist arrivals in switzerland averaged 1290.04 thousand from 1996 until 2024, reaching an all time high of 2373.40 thousand in july of 2023 and a record low of 53.92 thousand in april of 2020. source: swiss federal statistical office, tourist arrivals in switzerland is expected to be 2400.00 thousand by the end of this quarter, according to trading economics global macro models and analysts expectations. in the long-term, the switzerland tourist arrivals is projected to trend around 2000.00 thousand in 2025 and 2290.00 thousand in 2026, according to our econometric models., markets, gdp, labour, prices, money, trade, government, business, consumer, housing, taxes, health, climate.

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Main international travel markets for Switzerland 2012-2018

Leading inbound travel markets for switzerland from 2012 to 2018, by number of arrivals (in 1,000).

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Coronavirus: New rules for entry to Switzerland and for people vaccinated abroad to access the COVID certificate

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(Last modification 20.09.2021)

Compulsory testing on entry for travellers who have not been vaccinated or have not recovered

Entry form required for everyone

No test or form requirement for cross-border commuters

Risk-based inspections

Swiss COVID certificate for individuals vaccinated or recovered abroad

Outcome of the consultation

Address for enquiries

Federal Office of Public Health Coronavirus Infoline +41 58 463 00 00 COVID-19 Vaccination Infoline +41 58 377 88 92

List of high-risk countries
Travelcheck

The Federal Council https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html Federal Department of Foreign Affairs https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html Federal Office for Customs and Border Security https://www.bazg.admin.ch State Secretariat for Migration https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home.html Federal Office of Public Health http://www.bag.admin.ch Federal Department of Home Affairs http://www.edi.admin.ch

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Switzerland

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Switzerland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Switzerland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Switzerland.

If you decide to travel to Switzerland:

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Reports for Switzerland.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

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Quick Facts

Valid for at least six months after your planned date of departure from the Schengen area

No visa required for visits of 90 days or less

No legal requirement

No restrictions; officers may question over 10,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy bern.

Sulgeneckstrasse 19 3007 Bern, Switzerland Mailing address: P.O. 3259, 3001 Bern, Switzerland Emergency Telephone: + (41) (31) 357-7011 Fax: + (41) (31) 357-7280 Contact form The Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy provides routine and emergency services for U.S. citizens. The Embassy requires appointments for routine consular services. Please schedule appointments through the online appointment system for U.S. Citizens Services. Additional information is available on the Embassy’s website , Facebook , and Twitter .

When calling from within Switzerland, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: + 41 31 357-7011 becomes 031 357-7011.

Consular Agencies

There are two part-time consular agencies in Switzerland. They provide limited services to U.S. citizens by appointment only. Please visit our website for more information on available services.

U.S. Consular Agency Geneva Geneva America Center Rue Francois-Versonnex 7 1207 Geneva, Switzerland Mailing address: P.O. Box 3259, 3001 Bern, Switzerland

U.S. Consular Agency Zurich Zurich America Center Dufourstrasse 101 8008 Zurich, Switzerland Mailing address: P.O. Box 3259, 3001 Bern, Switzerland

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s website www.state.gov for information on U.S. - Switzerland relations and read our Top Tips for Americans Visiting Switzerland .

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the website of the Embassy of Switzerland in Washington, D.C. for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.
You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Switzerland.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
Places of worship
Shopping malls and markets
Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency number in Europe, including Switzerland, is “112.” You can also directly dial 144 for medical emergencies, 117 for the police, and 118 for the fire department.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Monitor media and local information sources as well as Embassy Bern’s safety and security webpage , and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
Address specific safety concerns to law enforcement authorities in Switzerland.

Crime: The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing, vehicle break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

Do not leave bags unattended. Most reported thefts occur at crowded tourist sites, at airports, car rental agencies, on public buses, trams and trains, and at the major railway stations.
Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings.
Be alert to criminal schemes. Organized groups of pick-pockets operate at major tourist sites and when conferences, festivals, shows, or exhibitions occur. Thieves frequently work in pairs. For example, one member of the pair creates a disturbance while the other steals your belongings.
While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .
In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 117, and contact the U.S. Embassy at +41 31 357-7011. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
Help you find appropriate medical care
Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
Provide a list of local attorneys
Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
Replace a stolen or lost passport

Alpine hazards: Switzerland is a popular destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts, including skiing, hiking, and mountain climbing. Alpine hazards such as avalanches and snowdrifts, landslides and flooding, glacial crevasses, falling rocks, sun exposure, and sudden weather changes are common year-round. Although safety standards are excellent, visitors need to be aware that public safety warnings are not comparable to those found in the United States. While hiking paths and ski slopes are clearly marked, not all possibly hazardous situations will have clear warning signs. People are expected to use common sense and caution when enjoying the outdoors.

People should:

Stay on designated paths or slopes
Follow the advice given by local authorities and guides
Take note of weather forecasts and conditions
Be in a team of two when participating in mountain activities
Inform someone of your plans and anticipated time of return

Mountain rescues can be extremely expensive and we recommend that you have sufficient insurance coverage that includes coverage for mountain search and rescue. See our website for more information on overseas insurance coverage . The non-profit foundation Swiss Air Rescue Organization (REGA) offers a membership that waives the costs of rescue missions; many Swiss citizens are members and U.S. citizens are able to join as well.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. Local organizations offer counseling and assistance for victims of crime .

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Swiss Banking : Most major credit cards are widely accepted, but many vendors will only accept chip-and-PIN cards. ATMs are widely available and accept U.S. debit cards. Numerous banks do not accept U.S. citizens as clients. Please see the Embassy’s website for more information on banking in Switzerland.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relationships or the organization of LGBTI events in Switzerland.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Switzerland, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets can make access difficult, but most major tourist areas have better facilities. Please see the website of the Swiss National Tourist Office for more information.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Switzerland dial 144, or 117 for the police.

Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States. Ambulance services are widely available.

The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Swiss medical facilities and care providers will ask for you to settle your bills onsite and you will have to claim a refund with your insurer later. It is common for hospitals to ask for a deposit to ensure medical costs will be covered.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Mental Health Resources : Under local law assisted suicide is legal in Switzerland, and several known organizations facilitate assisted suicide to consenting adults. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available and is free and anonymous. For those in the United States, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline by dialing 988 from a phone in the United States. For those in Switzerland, please contact Die Dargebotene Hand (The Helping Hand), a service aimed at adults, by dialing 143 from a phone in Switzerland (assistance is available in English, German, French, and Italian); or Pro Joventute (For the Children), a service aimed at youth, by dialing 147 from a phone in Switzerland (assistance available in German, French, and Italian).

Medications: Over-the-counter medicine is available at pharmacies and a pharmacist is on call 24/7. Information regarding the pharmacy and pharmacist on duty in your area can be obtained over the medical emergency telephone line by dialing 144. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Swiss Federal Customs Administration to ensure the medication is legal in Switzerland. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is common. Travelers planning high-risk activities (camping, adventure travel) should take precautions. See the website of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more details on TBE and TBE prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Traffic Safety: Road conditions are generally excellent, but traffic, engineering, and driving habits pose special dangers.

Lane markings and sign placements may differ from those in the United States. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers and stops.
Be aware that pedestrians, bikers, and trams generally have the right-of-way.
In alpine areas roads may become dangerous due to snowfall, ice, or avalanches. Some mountain roads may close for extended periods.
In some mountain areas, vehicle snow chains are required in the winter.
Roundabouts are very common in Switzerland.
The maximum speed limit on motorways is 120 km/h, on expressways it is 100 km/h, on roads outside urban areas it is 80 km/h, and in urban areas it is 50 km/h. Neighborhoods are typically 30 km/h.

Accidents: In the event of a traffic accident, call the police immediately at 117. Call 118 for the fire department and 144 for medical/ambulance services. 144 functions as the equivalent to the “911” emergency number in the United States.

Toll roads: If you plan to drive on motorways in Switzerland you must purchase a toll sticker (vignette), which must be affixed to the car’s windshield. These are available online, at gas stations, and at border crossings. Rental cars usually have a vignette already; be sure to check with your car rental agency. Failure to comply with traffic rules can result in large fines. For more information visist the website of the Swiss Federal Customs Administration .

Traffic Laws and Fines: While driving in Switzerland you are subject to local traffic laws.

The minimum age to operate a motor vehicle in Switzerland is 18.
The maximum allowable blood-alcohol content in the Switzerland is 0.05 percent (0.5 per mille).
All vehicles are required to travel with their headlights on at all times.
Use of cellular devices for talking or texting while driving is prohibited.
Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.
Turning right on red is illegal.
Speeding fines vary between 20 and 300 Swiss Francs. If you exceed the speed limit significantly or engage in reckless driving the traffic violation can be referred to the public prosecutor. Public prosecutors commonly impose monetary deposit/bail on foreign visitors, which can be over 1,000 Swiss Francs. Please note that a traffic violation that is referred to the prosecutor will incur significant cost in addition to the actual fine.

See the website of the Swiss National Tourism Office or the website of the Confederation of Swiss Cantons and Communes for additional information.

Driving in Switzerland: You may drive in Switzerland with your valid U.S. license for up to one year after your arrival; then you must obtain a Swiss permit. Swiss licenses are only issued on the basis of valid U.S. licenses. Holders of expired U.S. licenses must take the Swiss driving test when applying for a Swiss license. The minimum age for driving or learning to drive is 18. Liability insurance on motor vehicles is compulsory in Switzerland and must be provided by a Swiss insurance company.

Public Transportation: Public transport in Switzerland is excellent, punctual, and safe. The websites of the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) and the Swiss National Tourist Office are the best places to obtain information on fares and timetables.

Travelers must purchase train, bus or tram tickets and validate them by punching them in validating machines prior to boarding (machines can be found near the entrance of train stations or tram and bus stops). Tickets cannot be bought on the train, bus, or tram. Failure to follow this procedure may result in an on-the-spot fine by an inspector. If the violator does not pay the fine on the spot, it will automatically double.
Be aware of pick-pockets and do not leave bags unattended. Most reported thefts occur on public buses, trams and trains, and at the major railway stations.

For more information visit the website of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT) , which is responsible for public transport in Switzerland.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessed the government of Switzerland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Switzerland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Switzerland . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, switzerland map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Important information for flight guests travelling to Switzerland

Negative Covid-19 test result and registration of electronic contact details required before travelling. Exceptions for fully vaccinated passengers.

SWISS would like to draw your attention to that restrictions are still in place for travel to and transit in Switzerland for many countries.

Please take note of the detailed information on this page . Generally, a negative Covid-19 test result must be presented and an entry form ( ePLF ) must be filled in. Exceptions are in place for, among others, fully vaccinated passengers and guests under 16 years of age . Further details can be found on the pages of the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) . Please u se the interactive Travelcheck form of the FOPH to find out about the rules applicable to you.

Transfer via Zurich: Simplified rules for vaccinated passengers

Passengers only transiting in Switzerland within 24 hours and without leaving the airport are exempted from the test requirements. The entry form still needs to be completed. Passengers in transit from a Non-Schengen to a Schengen country need to be fully vaccinated. Flight guests should note that only a confirmation will be issued when checking in online. The actual boarding pass will be issued at the check-in counter. Flight guests should note that only a confirmation will be issued when checking in online. The actual boarding pass will be issued at the check-in counter.

SWISS recommends that flight guests allow for additional time and inform themselves in advance of the type of mask that has to be worn onboard their flight.

Citizens of EU/EFTA member states Open accordion

You must have a valid passport or national identity card to enter Switzerland. In some instances, Switzerland will accept a travel document that has expired. You can find out whether this applies to you here Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality.

Citizens of non-European states Open accordion

Citizens of countries outside the EU and EFTA who are not coming to Switzerland to work may stay in the country for a maximum of 3 months if they have a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the scheduled date of departure from Switzerland and if the passport was issued less than 10 years ago.

Citizens of certain non-European countries also need a visa to enter Switzerland. You can find out if this applies to you on the page about visas for foreign nationals .

Minors travelling without a parent Open accordion

Unlike other countries, Switzerland does not have any special provisions on minors who enter Switzerland unaccompanied by family members or parents.

However, it is advisable for minors in this situation to carry a letter signed by their parents or guardian permitting such travel. The letter should contain the personal details of the parents/guardian, their telephone number and:

the parents’ names and identity document number (and possibly also a photocopy of the document);

the names, identity document number and address of any person accompanying the minor;

name and identity document number of the minor;

itinerary and dates of travel permitted by the parents/guardian.

Some communes and cantons provide a special form for this purpose (see example from the canton of Vaud). However, permission from the parents/guardian may also take the form of a letter.

Further information Open accordion

If you would like more information on what travel documents you require to enter Switzerland, on crossing borders, travelling around the Schengen Area or obtaining a visa, please consult the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) website FAQ – Entry .

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Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Switzerland

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Switzerland set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Switzerland in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel provider for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to get treatment there.

Read TravelHealthPro’s general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Switzerland

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for people entering Switzerland.

More information is available from the Federal Office of Public Health or by calling the Coronavirus Infoline on +41 58 463 00 00 (7am to 5pm GMT). Assistance is available in English.

Public spaces

Cantons (administrative area) may impose further restrictions. Check cantonal websites for more details.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the Embassy of Switzerland in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Check with your transport provider or travel company that your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

Passport stamping

Check your passport is stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through Switzerland as a visitor. Border guards will use passport stamps to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence include boarding passes and tickets.

You can find more information on travel documents on the cantons website website. If you live in Switzerland, read our Living in Switzerland guide for passport stamping information.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

as a tourist
to visit family or friends
to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
for short-term studies or training

UK nationals do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. At passport control, UK nationals should use the ‘ALL PASSPORTS’ lane, whatever their residence status.

If you’re travelling to Switzerland and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Swiss government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you may need with the Swiss Embassy website .

If you are travelling to work in Switzerland , read the guidance on visas and permits.

If you stay in Switzerland with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Additional documents required by tourists

At Switzerland’s border control, you may need to:

show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address if visiting your own property (for example, a second home)
show proof of insurance for your trip – check FCDO’s travel insurance guidance
show a return or onward ticket
prove that you have enough money for your stay – around 100 Swiss francs a day

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that you can take into and out of Switzerland. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. There is information about Swiss customs regulations on the cantons website .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Switzerland guide .

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Foreign tourist arrivals in India will cross pre-pandemic level in 2024

Recent tourism data indicates an annual growth of 305.4 per cent in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in 2023. In 2023, 9.23 million foreign tourists visited India. Although the FTAs arrival number is still less than the pre-pandemic number of 10.93 million in 2019, experts believe in 2024 we might cross the FTAs arrival number of pre-pandemic days.

Updated On Apr 29, 2024 at 03:06 PM IST

Uttarakhand starts work to make Dehradun international airport starting with Kathmandu flights

While post covid domestic travel has staged new highs, international inbound is yet to recover fully. Foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) in 2019 were about 1.1 crore. In 2022 that figure was 62 lakh and last year it rose to 92.4 lakh. The industry is deliberating how to get FTAs not just back to 2019 levels but exceed the same. Increased direct international connectivity; more new tourism circuits and ease of visas have been the steps suggested by the industry to improve India’s FTAs.

Published On Apr 29, 2024 at 03:06 PM IST

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Türkiye
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Foreign tourist arrivals surge 13 percent in first quarter

April 30 2024 13:36:55

Foreign tourist arrivals increased by 13.2 percent in January-March to more than 7 million, while tourism revenues in the first quarter of 2024 rose 5.4 percent year-on-year to $8.78 billion, separate data showed on April 30.

Including the Turks residing abroad, more than 9 million people visited Türkiye in January-March, according to the numbers of the Tourism Ministry.

In March alone, Türkiye welcomed 2.7 million foreign tourists , while nearly 700,000 Turks residing in foreign countries entered Türkiye.

Iranians constituted the largest group of foreign visitors in the first three months of 2024. Some 745,000 tourists from Iran vacationed in Türkiye in January-March.

The number of Germans visiting the country surged 36 percent year-on-year to 680,000.

Türkiye hosted 682,000 Russian tourists in the same period, marking a 12 percent decline compared with the first three months of last year.

More than 575,000 Bulgarians visited the country in January-March, up 10 percent from a year ago. Bulgarians travel to Türkiye mostly for shopping purposes, visiting the provinces on the border, such as Edirne.

Istanbul was the most favorite destination among foreign travelers. The megacity welcomed 3.8 million holidaymakers, accounting for nearly 54 percent of all foreign tourist arrivals.

Antalya hosted nearly 860,000 foreign tourists, while Edirne came third with 833,000 visitors.

Tourism revenues rise

The Turkish Statistics Institute (TÜİK) also reported on April 20 that tourism revenues rose by 5.4 percent in the first quarter to $8.7 billion. Turks residing abroad accounted for 21 percent of this amount.

The average expenditure per capita was $975, down from $1,019 in the same period of 2023, and the average expenditure per night rose 10.6 percent to $93.

Food accounted for 22.6 percent of all expenditures, while the shares of international transport and package tours were 16.7 percent and 11.5 percent, respectively. Accommodation accounted for another 11.2 percent of total expenditures.

Visitors spent $1.17 billion on clothes and shoes and nearly $390,000 on souvenirs, the TÜİK data also showed.

Tourism expenditures of Turks who visited foreign countries increased by 11.3 percent in the first three months of 2024 to $1.78 billion. Of that amount, $1.4 billion was individual expenditures, while package tour expenditures were $335 million.

Türkiye aims to host 60 million visitors and generate $60 billion in tourism revenues this year.

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IMAGES

Switzerland Tourist Arrivals
International tourist arrivals by country in Europe
TOURIST ARRIVAL BY TOP 5 COUNTRIES
Top 30 Most Visited Countries by International Tourist Arrivals
TOP 10 Most Visited Countries in the World (2023 Data)
World’s top 10 international tourism destinations based on foreign

COMMENTS

International tourism, number of arrivals
International tourism, number of arrivals - Switzerland World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files. License : CC BY-4.0
Swiss tourism: Which nationalities visit Switzerland the most?
According to data from the FSO, the second-largest group of tourists in Switzerland come from the United States, with 962.822 arrivals from American airports from January to November 2022. On the opposite end of the list, the number of Belarusian citizens entering Switzerland was just over 2.000.
Switzerland
The value for International tourism, number of arrivals in Switzerland was 11,818,000 as of 2019. As the graph below shows, over the past 24 years this indicator reached a maximum value of 11,818,000 in 2019 and a minimum value of 6,530,000 in 2003. ... For many developing countries it is one of the main sources of foreign exchange income and a ...
Coronavirus: New rules for entry to Switzerland and for people
As a Schengen associated country, Switzerland aligns its entry regulations as far as possible with the decisions taken by the European Union. The Travelcheck online tool can be used to check the conditions for travellers wishing to enter Switzerland from specific countries. Swiss COVID certificate for individuals vaccinated or recovered abroad
Covid-19: Travel Conditions
Entry from Schengen / EU / EFTA: possible without restrictions. Entry from third countries: With effect from 2 May 2022, all remaining countries are removed from the SEM risk country list. This means that entry into Switzerland from all countries in the world will again be possible as before the pandemic. More information: Travel-Check (FOPH)
EXPLAINED: What are Switzerland's new travel and Covid certificate rules?
New vaccine types are now recognised for foreign tourists. Prior to September 20th, only vaccines approved for use in Switzerland — Pfizer/Biontech, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson — were accepted for the Covid certificate. ... When arriving, they must show proof of a negative test upon arrival in Switzerland, regardless of the means ...
Switzerland Visitor Arrivals: Foreign
Switzerland Visitor Arrivals: Foreign data was reported at 638.139 Person th in Feb 2024. This records an increase from the previous number of 585.799 Person th for Jan 2024. Switzerland Visitor Arrivals: Foreign data is updated monthly, averaging 621.965 Person th from Jan 1996 to Feb 2024, with 326 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,296.908 Person th in Jul 2019 and a ...
UPDATE: What are the current rules for entering Switzerland?
Generally speaking, greater restrictions apply to vaccinated people than to unvaccinated people re: entering Switzerland. Unvaccinated people from outside the Schengen/EFTA states and a handful of other 'safe' states on specific list (yes, another, different list which is available here) will not be allowed to enter Switzerland.
Switzerland Backtracks on Mandatory Quarantines for Some Foreign
Switzerland on Saturday dialed back pandemic travel rules announced just a week ago, removing the obligation for some foreign visitors to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival, a requirement that ...
Tourist visa for entering Switzerland
Visas for foreign nationals. Some foreigners cannot enter Switzerland without a visa. Some citizens of non-European countries who live in Switzerland require a visa to travel abroad. Here you can find out more about whether this applies to you and how you can obtain a visa. Open all.
Switzerland Visitor Arrivals [Chart-Data-Forecast], 1996
Switzerland Visitor Arrivals data is updated monthly, available from Jan 1996 to Feb 2024. The data reached an all-time high of 1,296,908 person in Jul 2019 and a record low of 10,610 person in Apr 2020. Swiss Federal Statistical Office provides monthly Tourist Arrivals. View Switzerland's Visitor Arrivals from Jan 1996 to Feb 2024 in the chart:
Tourism in Switzerland
From this collapse resulted an estimated loss of 730 billion USD (export value) with about 700 million arrivals less than in 2019 (ibid., p. 1). In Switzerland, the number of foreign tourists diminished by 62% in the first eight months of this year compared to 2019 . The general lockdowns and the retreat behind national boundaries slowed down ...
Switzerland Tourist Arrivals
Tourist Arrivals in Switzerland increased to 1456.73 Thousand in February from 1360.10 Thousand in January of 2024. This page provides - Switzerland Tourist Arrivals - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news. ... Foreign Direct Investment 1055435.30: 1120442.60: CHF Million: Dec 2022: Gold ...
Leading countries visiting Switzerland 2012-2018
Inbound overnight tourist arrivals in Switzerland 2010-2018; ... Foreign exchange earnings from tourism in India 2000-2022; International tourism receipts of India 2011-2022;
Information regarding entry into Switzerland and residence
Entry to Switzerland and residence for citizens of EU/EFTA countries. You may enter Swiss territory without a visa if you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and in possession of a valid recognised identity document. For a stay over 90 days you will require an authorisation from the migration ...
Coronavirus: New rules for entry to Switzerland and for people
As a Schengen associated country, Switzerland aligns its entry regulations as far as possible with the decisions taken by the European Union. The Travelcheck online tool can be used to check the conditions for travellers wishing to enter Switzerland from specific countries. Swiss COVID certificate for individuals vaccinated or recovered abroad
Travel: What to do if you get Covid when visiting Switzerland?
You can then use this to claim reimbursement from your insurance when you return to your country. If you are unsure how to proceed or need other information, these are the numbers to call in Switzerland: Coronavirus infoline: +41 58 463 00 00 (every day from 6am to 11pm) Cantonal hotlines.
Switzerland International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Travelling to Switzerland
SWISS would like to draw your attention to that restrictions are still in place for travel to and transit in Switzerland for many countries. Please take note of the detailed information on this page.Generally, a negative Covid-19 test result must be presented and an entry form ( ePLF) must be filled in. Exceptions are in place for, among others, fully vaccinated passengers and guests under 16 ...
Travel documents for entering Switzerland
Travel documents for entering Switzerland. Foreign nationals must have proof of their identity in order to enter Switzerland. Here is some information on what travel documents are required. All themes. de fr it rm en Launch search Open all Citizens of EU/EFTA member states ...
Entry requirements
Visa requirements. You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel: as a tourist. to visit family or friends. to ...
(PDF) Tourism in Switzerland
Consequently, Switzerland's tourism collapsed in 2020 [32]. It caused a major impact on tourist service providers, such as travel agencies and tour operators who have had a loss in sales of nearly ...
Tourism Industry: Foreign tourist arrivals in India will cross pre
Tourism Industry: Recent tourism data indicates an annual growth of 305.4 per cent in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in 2023. In 2023, 9.23 million foreign tourists visited India. Although the FTAs arrival number is still less than the pre-pandemic number of 10.93 million in 2019, experts believe in 2024 we might cross the FTAs arrival number of pre-pandemic days.
Foreign tourist arrivals surge 13 percent in first quarter
ANKARA. Foreign tourist arrivals increased by 13.2 percent in January-March to more than 7 million, while tourism revenues in the first quarter of 2024 rose 5.4 percent year-on-year to $8.78 billion, separate data showed on April 30. Including the Turks residing abroad, more than 9 million people visited Türkiye in January-March, according to ...
Foreign tourist arrivals in India will cross pre-pandemic level in 2024
Recent tourism data indicates an annual growth of 305.4 percent in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in 2023. In 2023, 9.23 million foreign tourists visited India. Although the FTAs arrival number ...
Covid-19: Travel Conditions
Entry from Schengen / EU / EFTA: possible without restrictions. Entry from third countries: With effect from 2 May 2022, all remaining countries are removed from the SEM risk country list. This means that entry into Switzerland from all countries in the world will again be possible as before the pandemic. More information: Travel-Check (FOPH)
In Photos: 2024 White House Correspondents' Dinner arrivals
Photo Gallery. In Photos: 2024 White House Correspondents' Dinner arrivals. The White House Correspondents' Dinner is back again — complete with pomp, circumstance, and protesters at the door.
Surge in tourist arrivals straining room supply
To recall, the Department of Tourism aims for 7.7 million tourist arrivals this year. This is expected to grow by up to 10 percent annually until 2028. However, Alfred Lay, Leechiu head of hotels ...

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