Lush green meadows and a small wooden cabin rest in the foreground of a breathtaking Swiss mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks under a partly cloudy sky.

The ETIAS is on the horizon, with the new travel authorization system expected to launch in mid-2025. This means British passport holders will need an approved ETIAS for short stays in Switzerland and other Schengen Area countries.

But who exactly needs an ETIAS? How and when should you apply? What other entry requirements should you know about? Read on to find out.

The Swiss flag, a bold white cross on a red background, is displayed alongside essential information about Switzerland, including its capital, languages, currency, and the contact details for the British Embassy.

Will I need an ETIAS to enter Switzerland?

Yes, you will need an ETIAS to enter Switzerland.

Although Switzerland is not a member state of the European Union (EU), it will be one of the countries that will implement the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

When will I need an ETIAS to enter Switzerland?

The ETIAS will be operational in mid-2025. This means you will need a valid ETIAS travel authorization to enter Switzerland and other countries within the Schengen Area by that time.

Do I need an ETIAS if I am a dual citizen of the UK and Switzerland?

No, you do not need an ETIAS if you are a dual citizen of the UK and Switzerland. Just remember to use your Swiss passport when entering the country.

I will be coming to Switzerland for studies/business and not for travel. Will I still need an ETIAS?

It depends. If you will be in Switzerland for 90 days or less, you will need an ETIAS.

However, if you will be studying or working in Switzerland for longer, you need the appropriate visa.

When should I apply for an ETIAS?

You should apply for an ETIAS before you book a flight. Although applying for an ETIAS travel authorization takes minutes in most cases, other applications take at least 30 days to process.

How do I apply for an ETIAS?

Applying for an ETIAS requires only a filled-out application form from the official ETIAS application portal. Simply fill out the form with your passport details, personal information, health history, and criminal record, if any.

After filling out the application form, you are required to pay a €7 application fee. 

However, you’re exempted from the fee if you are below 18 or over 70 years old, or if you have a family member living in any European country that requires an ETIAS.

Aside from an ETIAS, what other requirements do I need to enter Switzerland?

Aside from a valid ETIAS authorization, you need a valid British passport to enter Switzerland. The passport must be valid for at least three months after you leave the Schengen Area.

You may also need to show the following to Swiss border authorities:

  • Proof of accommodation (such as a hotel booking or proof of address in Switzerland)
  • Proof of insurance
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof that you have enough money for your stay — around CHF 100 a day

Do I need to print my ETIAS before entering Switzerland?

No, you do not need to print your ETIAS before entering Switzerland. Your ETIAS travel authorization is already linked to your passport.

My ETIAS application was refused. What should I do?

If your ETIAS application was refused, you will receive an email stating the grounds and the process for challenging the decision. Follow the instructions carefully and submit the necessary documents.

You can also apply for a new ETIAS application. A previously denied application does not mean the automatic refusal of a new application.

How long is my ETIAS valid?

Your ETIAS travel authorization is usually valid for three years. However, it will expire earlier if your passport has less than three years’ validity when your ETIAS was processed.

With the ETIAS launching in mid-2025, it is important to keep up with the latest news to avoid any inconveniences with your application. You might also want to check our country guides if you’re traveling to other European countries aside from Switzerland.