G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
3 October  2018 
(18-6086) Page: 1/46 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original:  French  
 
  
REPLIES TO THE QUESTIONNAIRE ON  
IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES (201 8) 
SWITZERLAND  
The following communication, dated 21 September  2018, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Switzerland . 
 
_______________  
 
 
In general terms, Switzerland's import licensing regime, notified in document  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/ 13, 
remains valid for 2018. The amendments for  2018 are shown in bold typeface . For the first time, 
Switzerland has inc luded in the questionnaire, under number 13, legislation concerning the 
importation of mercury, which was introduced last year  (see also G/LIC/N/1/CHE/5 of 
4 December  2017).  
 
 
 
                                                
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  Table of contents  
1  AGRICULTURAL PROD UCTS  ................................ ................................ ..........................  3 
1.1  Equines (A), breeding and production stock and bovine semen  (B) ................................ ..... 6 
1.2  Animals for slaughter and meat (A), prepared meat products (B) and eggs (C)  ....................  7 
1.3  Milk, dairy products and casein  ................................ ................................ ......................  9 
1.4  Fresh fruit and vegetables (A), f ruit for cider and fruit products (B), cut flowers (C), 
frozen vegetables (D), potatoes (including seed potatoes) and potato products (E), 
fruit seedlings (F)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  10 
1.5  Feed grain, cereal seeds and oilseeds  ................................ ................................ ............  12 
1.6  Grain for human consumption: durum wheat (A), c ommon wheat (bread grain) (B), 
coarse grain for human consumption, such as barley, oats and maize (C) and other 
products subject to licensing (D)  ................................ ................................ .........................  14 
1.7  Sugar (A), edible oils and fats (B) ................................ ................................ .................  15 
1.8  Grapes for pressing and grape juice  ................................ ................................ ..............  16 
1.9  Wine ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  17 
2  SANITARY AND PHYT OSANITARY MEASURES  ................................ .............................  18 
2.1  Import, transit and export of animals and animal products  ................................ ..............  18 
2.2  Plants and plant products  ................................ ................................ ............................  20 
2.3  Protection of forest plants  ................................ ................................ ............................  22 
3  CONVENTION ON INT ERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES O F WILD 
FLORA AND FAUNA (CIT ES) ................................ ................................ ...........................  24 
3.1  Animals  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  24 
3.2  Plants and plant products  ................................ ................................ ............................  25 
4  FOREST REPRODUCTI VE MATERIAL  ................................ ................................ ............  27 
5  TRANSPLANTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  28 
6  BLOOD, BLOO D PRODUCTS AND IMMUN OLOGICAL PRODUCTS  ................................ .. 29 
7  NARCOTIC DRUGS, P SYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANC ES AND PRECURSORS US ED 
AND MARKETED FOR LEG AL PU RPOSES  ................................ ................................ ..........  31 
8  ETHANOL  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  33 
9  GOODS OF VITAL AG RICULTURAL AND INDUS TRIAL IMPORTANCE SUB JECT 
TO COMPULSORY STOCKP ILING  ................................ ................................ .....................  34 
10  WAR MATERIAL, WEAPON S ................................ ................................ ......................  35 
10.1  War material  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  35 
10.2  Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, 
Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction (CWC)  ..............  37 
10.3  Weapons, their accessories and ammunition  ................................ ................................  38 
11  EXPLOSIVE MATERI ALS AND PYROTECHNIC DEVICES FOR CIVILIAN  USE ...............  42 
12  NUCLEAR FUEL, DE BRIS AND WASTE  ................................ ................................ ....... 43 
13 REDUCTION OF RISK S RELATING TO THE US E OF CERTAIN PAR TICULARLY 
DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES , PREPARATIONS AND A RTICLES (MERCURY)  .......................  44 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  1  AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT S2 
The s anitary and phytosanitary aspects of the products dealt with in this Chapter are described in 
greater detail in Chapters II(i) and II(ii) . The licensing system with respect to the compulsory holding 
of reserve stocks of foodstuffs and industrial products is described in Chapter IX . 
 
Horizontal replies  
Where there are no remarks concerning the outlines of the licensing systems by group of products 
below in Chapter  I, the following provisions apply : 
 
Outline of system  
1. The licensing systems for agricultural products are essentially governed by the Federal Law on 
Agriculture of 29  April 1998, which entered into force on 1  January  1999 (RS 910.1), and the 
Ordinance on imports of agricultural products of 2 6 October  2011 (RS 916.01) . They provide the 
legal basis for the statistical control of imports, the collection of those portions of customs duty that 
are not levied by the Federal Customs Administration (i.e. that a re levied by bodies outside the 
customs system) and for the individual allocation of tariff quota (TQ) shares and the control of their 
utilization . To this end, the two following instruments are applied : 
 
(a) Automatic licensing (general import licence – PGI): In principle, all imports of the groups of 
products listed under headings I(i) to I(ix) are subject to the PGI system . This licence, 
granted automatically, free of charge and for an indefinite duration, is used for statistical 
purposes . It is also use d to ensure collection of those portions of customs duty that are not 
levied by the Federal Customs Administration in the case of compulsory holding of stocks . 
The licensing system to cover the expenses of compulsory stocks is described in Chapter  IX. 
Persons liable to customs controls must state their PGI number on their customs declaration . 
(b) Non-automatic licensing governed by conditions set forth in the PGI, for the allocation of 
tariff quota (TQ) shares : This licence is part of an administrative proc edure whereby 
importers who meet the relevant legal requirements are authorized to carry out imports 
within the TQ . Quota shares may be transferred among holders of non -automatic licences . 
They are usually allocated for a limited period . The importer is no t required to present this 
authorization at the border ; controls are performed electronically when the customs 
declaration is processed . 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. In principle, the agricultural prod ucts described under headings I(i) to I (ix) are subject to an 
automatic import licence (PGI) . Imports within the TQs – assuming that a TQ exists and is 
applied  – require a non -automatic licence (for tariff item numbers within the TQs, see 
Swiss  notification to the Committee on Agriculture G/AG/N/CHE /13/Add.17).  
 
3. The regulations apply to imports of all goods, whatever their origin . 
 
4. Automatic licences provide for the statistical control of imports and, in certain cases, the collection 
of portions of customs duties that are not levied by the Fede ral Customs Administration, particularly 
in relation to compulsory stocks (see Chapter IX) . Non-automatic licences provide for the individual 
allocation of TQ shares and the control of their utilization ; they restrict the quantity of imports . 
 
5. Legal bas es: The Federal Law on Agriculture (RS 910.1, Article 24) , and the Ordinance on imports 
of agricultural products (RS 916.01, Article 1) . For specific p rocedures, see Chapters I(i) to  I(ix). 
Ordinances may be amended by the Government . In some cases, the Go vernment must submit the 
measures taken to Parliament for ex post  approval . The changes are published in the Official 
Compendium of Federal Law (RO) and the Systematic Compendium of Federal Law (RS ). 
 
                                                
2 General information in respect of agricultural products is available at: 
http://www.import.ofag.admin.ch  (in French, German and Italian only). G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  Procedures  
6. Non-automatic licensing : This does not apply to TQs which, for other reasons, are not currently 
applied . 
 
I. The administration of TQs for the calendar year 2016 is described in Switzerland's  notification 
to the Committee on Agriculture ( G/AG/N/CHE/13/ Add.1 8). All information concerning TQ 
utilization (quantities, application procedures for licences, exceptions, exemptions, etc.) is set 
forth in the specific ordinances published in the RO and RS (see Chapters I(i) to I(iv), I(vi) 
and I(viii) to I(ix)) . The customs tariff3 indicates, in the specific remarks under each tariff item 
number, whether or not a licence is required . If so, the name of the authority through which 
the importer may obtain further details is also provided . 
II. TQs are determined for one year . TQ shares  (non-automatic licence) may be allocated for 
shorter periods . The validity of the non -automatic licence is generally limited (see  description 
by group of products below ). 
 
III. The unused remainder of the allocations is not added to quotas for a succeedin g period . In 
January of each year, the annex to the Federal Council  Report on Tariff Measures, in the 
context of the report on external economic policy, provides the names of importers for the 
preceding year including data on quantities allocated and the q uantities actually imported by 
individual importing companies . This annex to the Report can be viewed online at 
http://www.import.ofag.admin.ch , following the link  Publication de l'attribution des 
contingents tarifaires . 
 
IV. There is no deadline for the submission of applications from the time of opening of the quota . 
 
V. As a rule, applicants receive a response within one to five working days according to the 
product . 
 
VI. When an import licence is granted, the date of opening of the period of importatio n may be 
the same as the date for the utilization of the licence . In other cases, the goods may be 
imported as soon as the individual quota has been allocated . 
 
VII. Applications are examined by a single administrative body . The importer must obtain a lice nce 
from the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG) (for health aspects see Chapter II(i) and (ii)).  
 
VIII. For the distribution of TQs by product group, see below (Chapter I(i) to I(iv), I(vi) and I(viii) 
to I(ix)) . In principle, each TQ allocation method enables new importers to participate in the 
market . For a number of products, a reserve supply is set aside specifically to that effect . Such 
reserves are added to the total quantity of the tariff quota . 
 
IX. The same rules apply to all imports within the TQs, regardless of the regulations of the 
exporting country . 
 
X. Export licences from the exporting countries are not required . 
 
XI. No. 
 
7.(a) Automatic licensing : In view of the time required to obtain a licence, the application must be 
submitted one to five days  in advance of the importation itself . 
 
(b) Generally, yes . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications are considered by a single authority, the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG) . 
 
                                                
3 http://www.tares.ch . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure  to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the decision 
to the Federal Administrative Court and, at second instance, to the Federal Supreme  Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to ap ply for licence  
9.(a) Non-automatic licensing : TQ shares are only allocated to individuals, businesses and 
organizations, irrespective of nationality or origin, that : (a) are established on 
Swiss  customs territory ; (b) import goods in the sector concerned for business purposes4; 
(c) provide guarantees that, where necessary, they can meet the requirements and 
undertake the commitments related to utilization of TQ shares . Producers of agricultural 
products and their marketing entities are also eligible for TQ  shares if they meet the 
commitments for the allocation of TQs (e.g. purchase of like products directly from other 
producers in Switzerland) . In January of each year, the annex to the Report on Tariff 
Measures provides the names of all the importers for th e preceding year including data on 
quantities allocated and the quantities imported by individual importing companies 
(see point 6.III above ). 
 
(b) Automatic licensing (PGI ): As a rule, any natural or legal person domiciled in Switzerland or 
Liechtenstein  is eligible, irrespective of nationality or origin, to receive a licence . In some 
cases, the applicant must engage regularly, and for business purposes, in trade in the 
product in question . There is no published list of authorized importers (except those who 
import within the TQs – see point 6.III above ). 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Only the usual information is required . Samples of the various appli cation forms are available 
on the following website : http://www.import.ofag.admin.ch . 
 
11. In addition to the number of the automatic licence and the documents usually required by the 
customs services, certai n certificates, such as certificates of origin or sanitary or phytosanitary 
certificates (see Chapter II), are required according to the product . 
 
12. Automatic licensing : As a general rule, no fees ; general import permit (permis général 
d'importation, P GI): import fees specific to certain batches of agricultural products imported via a 
PGI are listed in Annex 6 to the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of agricultural products  
(RS 916.01) . For customs clearance by imported batch (batch of goods cleare d through customs )5: 
CHF 3-5. These amounts correspond to the actual cost of the administrative services involved . 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Automatic licensing : The validity is not limited as long as  the conditions on which the licence 
was granted are met . 
 
Non-automatic licensing : The validity of the licence varies from two weeks to one year according to 
the product . The licence is generally renewable, sometime several times . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. Automatic licensing and non -automatic licensing : The licences are not transferable between 
eligible persons . TQ shares are, however, transferable to eligible persons . In general, TQ share 
transfers must be notified  by the holder of the TQ share no later than the wor king day 
before the day the customs declaration is made, with the help of the Internet application 
made available to users by the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG) (Article 14 of the 
Ordinance on the importation of agricultural products).   
 
17.(a) In a certain number of cases, the issue of non -automatic licences is subject to auctioning . 
                                                
4 Applicable only for the import of vegetables, wine and grape juice.  
5 Depending on the product and the method of allocation of tariff quota shares (according to need, etc.).  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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(b) In a certain number of cases, the issuing of automatic licences is subject to the payment of 
the portions of the customs duty that are not collected by the Federal  Customs Administration . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports is automatically provided by the banks . There 
are no restrictions on foreign exchange . 
 
SPECIFIC REPLIES  
 
1.1  Equines (A), breeding and produc tion stock and bovine semen  (B) 
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Breeding and production  equines (tariff headings : 0101.21, 0101.29, 0101.30 and 0101.90) are 
no longer subject to licensing and may be imported freely until the TQ is used up . Other breeding 
and production animals are subject to automatic licensing, and to non -automatic licensing for 
imports within the TQs . Since 2014, bovine semen has been subject to automatic licensing alone . 
All PGI holders are authorized to import within the TQ . For tariff item numbers within the TQs, see 
Switzerland's  notification to the Committee on Agriculture (G/AG/N/CHE/13/ Add.1 8). 
 
3.-4. See horizontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . The specific legal ba sis for (A) is the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on 
imports of agricultural products (RS 916.01), and for (B) the Ordinance of 31 October  2012 
concerning livestock breeding (RS 916.310).  
 
Procedures  
6.I. See horizontal replies . In the case of (B) dates and details of breeding cattle auctions are 
published in the specialized press and the Swiss Official Trade Gazette (FOSC ). 
 
II. For (A) and (B), the TQs are determined for one year (1  January -31 December) . TQ shares  for 
(A) – equines – are allocate d in order of receipt of the customs declarations. The TQ is released 
in two stages and for a limited period of time (1st stage: 3,000  animals from 1  January to 31 
December; 2nd stage: 822 animals from 1  October to 31 December). For  (B) – bovine semen 
– the TQ has not been administered since 2014 (see reply 2 above). The TQs for breeding and 
production animals are distributed in chronological order of submission of applications . The 
non-automatic licences are valid from 1 January of the quota period or as soon as 
they are issued during the quota period. All non -automatic licences are valid until 
the end of the calendar year (31  December) . Exception for bovine animals : 70% of the 
TQ is put up for auction eac h September – the licences are valid for th e next calendar year 
(1 January to 31 December) ; the remaining 30 % of the TQ is  put up for auction each 
April – the licences are valid until the end of the same year (31  December ). 
 
III. See horizontal replies . 
 
IV. In the case of bovine semen, the deadline for applications in the case of auctions is generally 
set at 30 days  following publication . For the other systems, there is no time -limit for 
application, which may take place throughout the year of opening of the TQ . For the bovine 
semen TQ there is only an automatic licence with no time -limit. 
 
V. See horizontal replies . 
 
VI. See point II above . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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VII. See horizontal replies . 
 
VIII. For (A) the allocation of TQ shares takes place as needed ; for (B) distribution of the TQ in 
chronological order of submission of applications ; auctioning of the TQ in the case of bovine 
animals . As the TQ for bovine semen is not administered, these imports are not limited.  
 
IX.-XI. See horizontal replies . 
 
7.(a)-(d) See horizontal replies . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) See horizontal replies . 
 
(b) See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. For breeding animals, the importer is required to provide a copy of the pedigree certificate . In 
the case of non -pure-bred breeding or production animals, a written statement justifying the 
animal's use is required . 
 
11.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Automatic licensing : see horizontal replies ; non-automatic licensing : see point 6.II . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) No. 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.2  Animals for slaughter and meat (A), prepared meat products (B) and eggs  (C) 
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . For (C) eggs and egg products, licences are no longer required ; 
general authorization to import  these products at the quota  rate until the TQ is used up . 
For egg products, there is no limit on importation at the quota  rate (no management of 
the two TQs).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Tariff headings for (A): ex 0101 -0104, ex 0201 -0207, ex 0209, ex 0210 and ex  1602; for (B): ex 
0210 and ex 1601 -1602; for (C): ex 0407 -0408 and ex 3502 . All products of (A) and (B) are subject 
to automatic licensing, and to non -automatic licensing for in -quota imports . Products under (C) are 
no longer subject to licensing . 
 
3. See horizontal replies . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  4. See horizon tal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . For (A) animals for slaughter and meat of bovine, equine, ovine, caprine 
and porcine animals and poultry  and (B) prepared meat products , the specific legal basis is the 
Ordinance of 26  November  2003 concerning the slaughter cattle and meat market (Ordinance on 
Cattle for Slaughter, RS 916.341) . For (C) eggs and egg products , the specific legal basis is the 
Ordinance of 26  November  2003 concerning the egg market (Ordinance on Eggs, RS 916.371 ). 
 
Procedures  
6.I. See h orizontal replies . Auction dates and details are published in the specialized press and the 
Swiss Official Trade Gazette (FOSC ). 
 
II. See horizontal replies . For (A) and (B): the maximum duration of non -automatic licences is 
one year . 
 
III. See horizontal replies . 
 
IV. For (A) and (B), the deadline for applications involving auctions is generally set at 30  working 
days following publication in the case of tariff lines with a one -year TQ period, and six days 
for the others . 
 
V. See horizontal replies . 
 
VI.  One day . 
 
VII. See horizontal replies . Products under (C) are no longer subject to licensing . 
 
VIII. 
(A) TQ distribution in accordance with a contribution to local production (50% for bovine and ovine 
meat, 40% for caprine and equine meat) ; auctioning (50% for bovine and ovine meat , 60% 
for caprine and equine meat, 100 % for other products ). 
 
(B) TQ distribution by auction . 
 
(C) The distribution of the TQ  for eggs takes place in the order in which the customs 
declarations are received  (as needed) . The volume  of imports under the TQ is 
recorded by the customs authorities, whose website continuously provides 
information on the current TQ fill rate . There is no maximum amount per importer . 
The allocation of the two quotas for egg products is not regulated; anyon e can 
import at the quota rate without any limit.  
 
IX.-XI. See horizontal replies . 
 
7.(a) In view of the time required to obtain a licence, the application must be submitted 
one to five days in advance of the importation itself . Emergency procedure by telephone  or 
email  possible . 
 
(b)-(d) See horizontal replies . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  Conditions of licensing  
14. Automatic licensing : see horizontal replies ; non-automatic licensing : for (A) and (B): maximum 
duration one year . 
 
15.-16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) For (A): purchase of animals from Switzerland , animals slaughtered in Switzerland or 
participation in the auction ; For (B): applicants have to take part in the auction . 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.3  Milk, dairy products and casein  
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Tariff headings : subchapters 0401 -0405 and ex 3501 . These products are subject to automatic 
licensing, and to non -automatic licensing as regards imports of certain dairy products (0401.10.10, 
0401. 20.10, 0402.21.11, 0402.29.11, 0403.10.91, 0403.90.41, 0403.90.51, 0403.90.91, 
0404.90.81, 0405.10.11, 0405.10.91, 0405.20.11, 0405.20.19 and 0405.90.10) within the TQs . 
Tariff headings of subchapter 0406 are no longer subject to licensing . 
 
3.-4. See hori zontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of 
agricultural products  (RS 916.01).  
 
Procedures  
6.I. See horizontal replies . 
 
II. See horizontal replies . Quotas and non -automatic licences are established for one calendar 
year, with the exception of partial tariff quota No.  7.2 for milk powder, which is divided into 
two bands (the first allows importation throughout the entire quota period ; the second, only 
during the seco nd six months of the quota period).  
 
III. See horizontal replies . 
 
IV. For partial tariff quotas No. 7.2 (milk powder) and No.  7.4 (butter), the deadline for 
applications in the case of auctions is generally set at 14 working days following publication . 
 
V. See horizontal replies . 
 
VI. One day . 
 
VII. See horizontal replies . 
 
VIII. The distribution of partial tariff quotas takes place as follows : 
 
- Partial tariff quota No.  7.2, milk powder, and partial tariff quota No.  7.4, butter : by 
auction ; 
- partial tar iff quota No.  07.3, various dairy products : in the order in which 
applications are received by OFAG ( as needed ); G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  - partial tariff quota No.  07.5 ( Fontal cheese ): in the order in which customs 
declarations are received ( as needed, no licence required);  
- the allocation of partial tariff quota No.  07.6 and TQ No.  08 is not regulated; 
anyone can import at the quota rate without any limit.  
 
IX.-XI. See horizontal replies . 
 
7.(a) In view of the time required to obtain a licence, the application must be submitted 
one to five days in advance of the importation itself . Emergency procedure by telephone or  
email  possible . 
 
(b)-(d) See horizontal replies . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. See horizontal replies . Non-automatic licences, valid for one year, are not extendable . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) Applicants for partial TQs Nos.  7.2 and 7.4 have to take part in the auction . 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.4  Fresh fruit and vegetables (A), fruit for cider and fruit products (B), cut flowers (C), 
frozen vegetables (D), potatoes (including seed potatoes) and potato products (E), fruit 
seedlings  (F) 
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The following products : 
 
(A) Fresh vegetables (ex 0702.00, ex 0703.10, ex 07 03.90, 0704.10, 0704.20, ex 0704.90, 
0705.11, 0705.19, 0705.21, ex 0705.29, 0706.10, ex 0706.90, ex 0707.00, 0708.10, 
ex 0708.20, ex 0708.90, ex 0709.20, 0709.30, 0709.40, ex 0709.70, 0709.91 and 
ex 0709.99) and fresh fruit (ex 0808.10, ex  0808.30, ex  0808.40, ex  0809.10, ex  0809.21, 
ex 0809.29, ex 0809.40, ex 0810.10, ex 0810.20 and ex 0810.30) are subject to : 
(a) automatic licensing and (b) non -automatic licensing as regards imports within the TQs 
over a period ranging from six to 50 weeks according to the product ; 
(B) Fruit for cider (ex 0808.10 and ex 0808.30) and seed fruit products (2009.71, ex 2009.79, 
ex 2009.89, ex  2009.90, ex 2202.9 9 and ex  2206.00) are subject to : (a) automatic licensing 
and (b) non -automatic licensing as regards imports within the TQs ; G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  (C) Cut flowers (ex  0603.11, ex  0603.12, ex  0603.13, ex  0603.14, ex  0603.15 and ex  0603.19) 
are subject to  automatic licensing from 1  May to 25  October ; 
(D) Frozen vegetables (0710.21, ex 0710.22, ex 0710.30, ex 0710.80 a nd ex 0710.90) are subject 
to: (a) automatic licensing and (b) non -automatic licensing as regards imports within the TQs ; 
(E) Potatoes (including seed potatoes ) and potato products are subject to : (a) automatic licensing 
and (b) non -automatic licensing as regards imports within the TQs (tariff headings : 
0701.10.10, 0701.90.10, 0710.10.10, 0710.90.21, 0712.90.21, 1105.10.11, 1105.20.11, 
2001.90.31, 2004.10.12, 2004.10.13, 2004.10.92, 2004.10.93, 2004.90.28, 2004.90.51, 
2005.20.21, 2005.20.22, 2005.20.92, 200 5.20.93, 2005.99.21 and 2005.99.51) ; 
(F) Seedlings of seed fruit and stone fruit are subject to : (a) automatic licensing . 
 
3.-4. See horizontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . For (A), (B), (C), (D) and (F), the specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 
7 December  1998 on the import and export of vegetables, fruit and horticultural plants 
(RS 916.121.10) . For (E), the specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of 
agricultural products  (RS 916.01).  
 
Procedures  
6.I. See horizontal replies . 
 
II.(A) See horizontal replies . In principle, non -automatic licences are granted for the period indicated 
in point 2 above . 
(B)  See horizontal replies . Non-automatic licences for fruit for cider and seed fruit products are 
issued for a  maximum period of 12 months . 
(C)  As from 1  January  2017, the TQ , determined for the period from 1 May to 25 October, 
is no longer administered. O nly automatic licensing is maintained.   
(D)  and (E) See horizontal replies . Non-automatic licences are issued for a maximum of 
12 month s. 
 
III. See horizontal replies . 
 
IV. 
(A)  With respect to non -automatic licences granted according to previous imports by the applicant, 
the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG) sends the new licence  to the importers at the 
beginning of each year . As regards other licensing systems, there is no time -limit for the 
submission of applications . They can be submitted throughout the year of opening of the TQ . 
Licences are issued primarily on the basis of th e applicants' previous imports . 
(B)  The deadline for applications in the case of auctions is generally set at 30 working days 
following publication . 
(C) As from 1 January 2017, the TQ is no longer allocated and only automatic licensing is 
maintained.  
(D)  The OFAG sends the new licences to the importers before the beginning of the TQ period . 
(E)  With respect to non -automatic licences granted on the basis of contribution to local 
production  for TQ 14.1  (seed potatoes) and TQ 14.2 (potatoes for processing),  on 
the basis of auction s for half of TQ 14.3 (table potatoes) and according to market 
shares for the other  half of TQ 14.3, and on the basis of auctions  for TQ 14.4  (potato 
products) , the OFAG sends the new licence to the importers before the beginning of  
the TQ period . For half of TQ  14.3 and for TQ 14.4, the deadline for applications in 
the case of auctions is generally set at 30 days following publication . 
 
V. See horizontal replies . For (B) and (E) the time period  for the examination of applications in 
connection with auctions is about five working days after the call for bids has been closed . 
 
VI.-VII. See horizontal replies . 
 
VIII.(A) For the vast majority  of products, licences are issued according to previous imports by the 
applicant . For certain products, allocations are made in response to the market shares or 
pro rata to applications . During the non -administered period for each product and for 
some prod ucts throughout the year, imports within the TQ take place without 
allocation and only the automatic licence is required for importation . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 12 - 
  (B)  Licences are issued by auction . New importers may obtain a licence at each new allocation . 
(C)  As from 1 January  2017, the TQ is no longer administered  and only automatic 
licensing is maintained . 
(D)  Licences are issued on the basis of a combination of two criteria : previous imports by the 
applicant, and purchase of local goods by the applicant . New importers obtai n a 
non-automatic licence upon applying for an automatic licence.  
(E)  Non-automatic licences for TQ 14.1 (seed potatoes) and TQ 14.2 (potatoes for 
processing) are allocated  according to  purchase s of domestic goods. Non -automatic 
licences for TQ 14.3 (table potatoes) are allocated  for half of the quota according to 
the criterion of the market  shares of eligible parties and for the other half by auction . 
Non-automatic licences for TQ 14.4 (potato p roducts)  are allocated by auction . New 
importers may obtain a licence when  each new allocation  is made . 
 
IX.-XI. See horizontal replies . 
 
7.(a) See horizontal replies . No time -limit. Emergency procedure by telephone  or email  possible . 
 
(b)-(d) See horizontal replies . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. 
- Automatic licensing : See horizontal replies . 
- Non-automatic licensing : 
(A)  The validity of the licence ranges from one month to 50 weeks according to the system 
of allocation in force (see point 2 above) and is not extendable . 
(B) The validity of the lic ence ranges from three months to one year according to the system 
of allocation in force . 
(C)  As from 1 January 2017, the TQ is no longer allocated and only automatic licensing is 
maintained . 
(D)  The licence is valid for one year . 
(E)  The validity of the licence ranges from five months to one year  according to the 
system of allocation in force . 
 
15.-16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) Subject in certain cases to the purchase of like products from Switzerland . 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.5  Feed grain , cereal seed s and oilseeds  
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . The licensing system is administered by the Federal Office for Agriculture 
(OFAG) and Réservesuisse  (see also under Chapter IX). 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 13 - 
  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Tariff headings are listed in Annex 1 to the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of 
agricultural products (RS 916.01) . The import of products governed by market regulations 
concerning feed grain , cereal seed s and oilseeds  is subject to automatic licensing . 
 
3. See horizontal replies . 
 
4. Automatic licensing provides for the statistical control of imports and maintenance of the system 
of reserve stocks (see Chapter IX). 
 
5. See horizontal replies . The specific legal bases are the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports 
of agricultural products (RS 916.01) and the Ordinance of 10 May 2017  on compulsory stockpiling 
of foods and fodder  (RS 531.215.11) . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable . 
 
7.(a) See horizontal replies . No time -limit. Emergency procedure by telephone  or email  possible . 
 
(b)-(c) See horizontal replies . 
 
(d) Applications for automatic licences for goods subject to guarantee fund contributions  
are processed  by Réservesuisse . Licences for cereal seed s not subject to guarantee 
fund contributions are granted by the OFAG . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. See horizontal replies . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) See horizontal replies . 
 
(b) Participation in the cost of establishing compulsory reserve stocks and, where applicable, 
conclusion of a contract providing for the establishment of a compulsory reserve stock 
(see Chapter IX). 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 14 - 
  1.6  Grain for human consumption : durum wheat (A), common wheat (bread grain) (B ), 
coarse grain for human consumption, such as barley, oats and maize (C) and other 
products subject to licensing  (D) 
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . The licensing system is administered by Réservesuisse  (see Chapter  IX) 
for goods subject to contributions to the guarantee fund or to the supplementary reserve stocks . 
The OFAG grants licences for other products . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. In-quota imports are subject to automatic licensing, except for bread grain  (B) which is subject  
to an applied TQ . TQs for durum wheat (A) and coarse grain for human consumption, such as barley, 
oats and maize (C) are not currently administered, i.e.  importation at the TQ rate is not limited . As 
regards bread grain , the TQ is allocated in stages according to need (allocation in the order in which 
the customs declarations are received) . Products falling under (D) are subject to automatic licensing 
alone . 
 
Tariff headings : 
 
(A)  1001.19 .21; 
 
(B)  1001.99 .21, 1002.90 .21, 1007.90 .21, 1008.10 .21, 1008.29 .21, 1008.50 .21, 1008.40 .21, 
1008.60 .31 and  1008.90 .23; 
 
(C)  1003.90 .41, 1004.90 .21 and  1005.90 .21; 
 
(D) 1107.10 .12, 1107.20 .12, ex 1205.10 .39, ex 1205.10 .69, ex 1205.90 .39 and  ex 1205.90 .69. 
 
3.-4. See horizontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of 
agricultural products  (RS 916.01).  
 
Procedures  
6.I.-II. See horizontal replies . 
 
III. See horizontal replies . For (A), on average the durum wheat imported at quota rates sh ould 
in the course of a calendar quarter, serve to manufacture at least 64 % of milled products . The 
latter should be used as cooking meal for human consumption or as fine semolina for the 
manufacture of pasta products . In the course of  a calendar quarter an average of at least 96 % 
of the fine semolina should be used for the manufacture of pasta products . (C) with regard to 
coarse grains imported at the quota rate, at least 15% of edible oats and barley and at least 
45% of edible maize ( calculated as a calendar year average), must be used for human 
consumption.  The controlling body is the Directorate -General of Customs . 
 
IV. Before the planned date of importation . 
 
V. See horizontal replies . 
 
VI. There is no minimum time -limit. 
 
VII. Applications are considered by Réservesuisse  for goods subject to contribution to the 
guarantee fund and by the OFAG for other products . 
 
VIII. For (B), licences are issued as needed  (allocation in the order in which the customs 
declarations are received) . 
 
IX.-XI. See horizontal replies . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 15 - 
  7.(a) See horizontal replies . Emergency procedure by telephone, email  or fax possible . 
 
(b)-(c) See horizontal replies . 
 
(d) See 6.VII above . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) No. 
 
(b) Participation in the cost of establishing the compulsory reser ve stock and, where appropriate, conclusion 
of a contract providing for the establishment of a compulsory reserve stock (see Chapter IX). 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.7  Sugar (A), edible oils and fats  (B) 
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . The licensing system is administered by Réservesuisse , acting on 
instructions from the OFAG and the Federal Office for National Economic Supply (see Chapter IX). 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The import of products governed by the market regulations concerning sugar and oils and fats for 
human consumption is subject to automatic licensing . 
 
(A)  Tariff headings : 1701.12.00, 1701.13.00, 1701.14.00, 1701.99.99, 1702.90.19, 1702.90.22, 
1702.90.32 and 1702.90.33 . 
(B)  Tariff headings (oils and fats for human consumption in Chapter 15 and germ of cereals for 
the manufacture of fats or oils in Chapter 11): 
 1104.30.11, 1104.30.12, 1104.30.21, 1104.30.39,  1501.10.91, 1501.10.99, 1501.20.91, 
1501.20.99, 1501.90.91, 1501.90.99 , 1502.10.91, 1502.10.99, 1502.90.91, 1502.90.99, 
1503.00.91, 1503.00.99, 1504.10.98, 1504.10.99, 1504.20.91, 1504.20.99, 1504.30.91, 
1504.30.99, 1506.00.91, 1506.00.99, 1507.10.90, 1507.90.18, 1507.90.19, 1507.90.98, 
1507.90.99, 1508.10.90, 1508.90.18, 15 08.90.19, 1508.90.98, 1508.90.99, 1509.10.91, 
1509.10.99, 1509.90.91, 1509.90.99, 1510.00.91, 1510.00.99, 1511.10.90, 1511.90.18, 
1511.90.19, 1511.90.98, 1511.90.99, 1512.11.90, 1512.19.18, 1512.19.19, 1512.19.98, 
1512.19.99, 1512.21.90, 1512.29.91, 1512.2 9.99, 1513.11.90, 1513.19.18, 1513.19.19, 
1513.19.98, 1513.19.99, 1513.21.90, 1513.29.18, 1513.29.19, 1513.29.98, 1513.29.99, 
1514.11.90, 1514.19.91, 1514.19.99, 1514.91.90, 1514.99.91, 1514.99.99, 1515.11.90, 
1515.19.91, 1515.19.99, 1515.21.90, 1515.29.91 , 1515.29.99, 1515.30.91, 1515.30.99, 
1515.50.19, 1515.50.91, 1515.50.99, 1515.90.13, 1515.90.18, 1515.90.19, 1515.90.28, 
1515.90.29, 1515.90.38, 1515.90.39, 1515.90.98, 1515.90.99, 1516.10.91, 1516.10.99, 
1516.20.93, 1516.20.98, 1517.10.63, 1517.10.68, 15 17.10.73, 1517.10.78, 1517.10.83, 
1517.10.88, 1517.10.93, 1517.10.98, 1517.90.63, 1517.90.68, 1517.90.71, 1517.90.79, 
1517.90.81, 1517.90.89, 1517.90.91 and 1517.90.99 . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 16 - 
   
3.-4. See horizontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . 
 
(A) and (B)   The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 10 June 2017 on compulsory stockpiling of 
foods and fodder (RS 531.215.11 ). 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable . 
 
7.(a)-(c) See horizontal replies . 
 
(d) Only Réservesuisse  has the authority to issue licences . 
 
8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) Participation in the costs of establishing the compulsory reserve stock and, where appropriate, 
conclusion of a contract providing for the establishment of a compulsory reserve stock (see 
Chapter IX). 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.8  Grapes for pressing and grape juice  
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . The TQ is not administered . These products are covered by the automatic 
licensing regime . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Grapes for pressing (tariff headings : 0806.10.21 and 0806.10.29) and grape juice (2009.61.11, 
2009.61.19, 2009.61.22, 2009.61.29, 2009.69.10, 2009.69.90, 2202.9 9.11, 2202.9 919, 
2202.9 9.41 and 2202.9 9.49) and fruit juices containing grape juice (2009.90.30, 2009.90.69  and 
2009.90.99) are subject to automatic licensing alone . 
 
3.-4. See horizontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal replies . The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of 
agricultural products (RS 916.01) and the Ordinance of 14 November  2007 on viticulture and the 
importation of wine  (RS 916.140 ). 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 17 - 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable . 
 
7.-8. See horizontal replies . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . In order to be eligible to market the products  in question, the 
importers must make themselves known to the wine trade control authority before they 
begin their commercial activities . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
1.9  Wine  
Outline of system  
1. See horizontal replies . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Wine is subject to automatic licensing as regards over -TQ imports (tariff headings : 2204.21.29, 
2204.21.39, 2204.21.49, 2204.2 2.29, 2204.2 2.39, 2204.29.28 and 2204.29.38 ) and quota -free 
imports ( 2204.2 2.41 and 2204.2 2.42, 2204.29.43 and 2204.29.44 ), and to  non-automatic licensing 
as regards in -TQ imports (tariff  headings : 2204.21.21, 2204.21.31, 2204.21.41, 2204.2 2.21, 
2204.2 2.22, 2204.2 2.31 and 2204.2 2.32, 2204.29.23, 2204.29.24, 2204.29.33 and 2204.29.34 ). 
 
3.-4. See horizontal replies . 
 
5. See horizontal  replies . The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 2 6 October  2011 on imports of 
agricultural products (RS 916.01) and the Ordinance of 14 November  2007 on viticulture and the 
importation of wine (RS 916.140 ). 
 
Procedures  
6.I.-VII. See horizontal repli es. 
 
VIII. The allocation of TQ shares takes place as needed (allocation in the order in which the customs 
declarations are received) . Licences are issued in chronological order of actual imports, upon 
customs clearance, as long as the TQ is not exhausted . 
 
IX.-XI. See horizontal replies . 
 
7.-8. See horizontal replies . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 18 - 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See horizontal replies . In order to be eligible to market the products in question, importers 
must  make themselves known to the wine trade control authority before they begin their 
commercial activities . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.-13. See horizontal replies . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-16. See horizontal replies . 
 
17.(a) No. 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.-19. See horizontal replies . 
 
2  SANITARY AND PHYTOSANITARY MEASURES  
2.1  Import, transit and export of animals and animal products  
Outline of system  
1. The purpose of sanitary measures is to prevent the introduction of epizootics and goods that 
present a health risk . As a rule, these measures also apply to re -importation and transit . The Federal 
Office for Food Security and Veterinary Affairs  (OSAV) is responsible for issuing the authorizations 
laid down by veterinary law6 for the impo rtation of animals and goods . For the importation of animals 
and animal products covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of 
Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), see also Chapter III(i) below . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. List of products  falling under the Ordinance on the import, transit and export of animals and 
animal products (OITE) : 
 
In the case of products from the EU, Norway or Iceland, an authorization is required for : 
 
- The importation or re -importation of animals or animal products which do not fulfil the 
conditions laid down in Annex 11 to the Agreement of 21  June 1999 on trade in agricultural 
products (hereinafter the "Agricultural Agreement" ; RS 0.916.026.81 ), including in particular 
the re -importation of cloven -hoofed animals after a short stay in a member State of the 
European Union to participate in an exhibition or similar event ; 
-  the importation of animal by -products of categories 1 and 2 under Articles  4 and 5 of the 
Ordinance on the elimination of animal  by-products (OESPA ; RS 916.441.22) ; 
-  imports of animals or animal products which are not regulated by the Agricultural Agreement . 
 
In the case of products from other countries, an authorization is required for : 
 
-  Non-commercial samples and laboratory samples that do not fulfil the conditions laid down in 
Article  12 of the  Ordinance on import, transit and export trade in animals and animal products 
with third countries  (OITE -PT); 
-  dogs, cats and ferrets from countries where urban rabies cannot be ruled out (countries not 
included in Annex  3 to the Ordinance on the import, transit and export of pets ( OITE-AC)) and 
imported directly by air into Switzerland . 
                                                
6 Available at: https://www.blv.admin.ch/blv/fr/home/import -und-export/rechts -und-
vollzugsgrundlagen/gesetzgebung.html  (in French, German and Italian only).  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 19 - 
   
3. See point 2 above . 
 
4. No restrictions . For purpose, see point 1 above . 
 
5. Veterinary l egislation7 governing  the importation of animals and goods (Article  7 of the Ordinance 
of 18 November  2015 on import, transit and export trade in animals and animal products with the 
EU m ember States , Iceland and  Norway  [OITE -UE; RS 916.443.11 ], the Ordinance of 
18 November  2015 on import, transit and export trade in animals and animal products with 
third countries [OITE -PT; RS 916.443.10 ], and Article 14 of the Ordinance of 28 November  2014 on 
the import, transit and export of pets [OITE -AC; RS 916.443.14 ]). These authorizations are police 
authorizations issued in accordance with the Law on Epizootics of 1  July 1966 (LFE ; RS 916.40 ). It 
is not possible either to make the regime more flexi ble or to modify the legal bases . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) It is recommended that applications should be submitted at least three weeks in advance of 
importation . 
 
(b) Sometimes . In some cases, an approval, opinion or authorization is required from other 
services (cantonal veterinary services, Federal Office for Agriculture [OFAG]).  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) See point 7(b) above . The procedure is generally regulated so that the applicant needs to 
approach only two servic es (OSAV and OFAG).  
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the decision 
to the Federal Administrative Court and, at second instance, to the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided they are 
establis hed on the Swiss customs territory . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Please refer to the following websites : 
 
-  For laboratory samples and non -commercial samples : 
https://www2.blv.admin.ch/fr/import_filt er/pdf?country_group%5B%5D=countrygroup_dritt
staaten&category%5B%5D=cat_tp&supergroup%5B%5D=Og -
tierische_nebenprodukte&group%5B%5D=Og -mustersendungen_laborproben ; 
-  for dogs, cats and ferrets : https://www.blv.admin.ch/blv/en/home/tiere/reisen -mit-
heimtieren/hunde -katzen -und-frettchen.html . 
 
11. Import licence (or, if possible, accredita tion as a professional importer ), supplementary data 
sheet, as appropriate . 
 
12. A fee of  CHF 40 has been charged since 1 January  2015 for issuing an authorization  for dogs, 
cats and ferrets , and for issuing an authorization  for laboratory samples and non -commercial 
samples  if the batch is not subject to  veterinary border control.  
 
13. As a rule, no . 
                                                
7 Available at: https://www.blv.admin.ch/blv/fr/home/import -und-export/rechts -und-
vollzugsgrundlagen/gesetzgebung.html  (in French, German and Italian only).  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 20 - 
   
Conditions of licensing  
14. In the case of dogs, cats and ferrets : until the end of the period of validity of the vaccination, 
that is, for three years maximu m. In the case of non -commercial samples : according to type of 
sample (epizootics policy risk), issue of an individual authorization or annual authorization . Import 
permits for protected  species are valid for three months ; professional importer  accreditations are 
valid for two years . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. The licences are not transferable between eligible persons . 
 
17.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Sometimes . Subject to cantonal authorizations required by veterinary law and the laws on 
foodstuffs . 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
2.2  Plants and plant products  
Outline of system  
1. The purpose of phytosanitary measures is to prevent the introduction and propagation of pests 
and diseases which are particularly dange rous within the meaning of the O rdinance on plant 
protection ("quarantine organisms") . The importation of plants and plant products, where not 
prohibited because of the phytosanitary risk that certain plants and plant products 
present (risk of introducing particularly dangerous pests and diseases), is subject to the 
phytosanitary certification regime within the meaning of the Internatio nal Plant 
Protection Convention (IPPC) . Certification is  issued under the responsibility of the 
national plant protection organization of the exporting country if the goods concerned 
meet Switzerland's phytosanitary requirements. The importation of goods requiring a 
phytosanitary certificate does not require a licence as such, but each shipment is subject 
to phytosanitary control  upon importation and , for this reason,  must be notified to the 
Federal Phytosanitary Service (SPF) no later than the day before the control is to take  
place . Importers are entered in an  official register managed by the SPF . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Phytosanitary measures appli cable to the importation of plants, plant products and other items 
include , on the one hand,  the prohibition of imports  and, on the other, the phytosanitary certification 
regime  in accordance with the procedures set out  in the International Plant Protection Convention 
(IPPC). Dispensation may be granted in the case of goods the import of which is prohibited or which 
cannot  meet the mandatory phyt osanitary requirements for obtaining a phytosanitary certificate . 
Dispensation is granted solely in the case of goods that are imported for research, selection, 
multiplication or diagnostic purposes, provided that the conditions for their intended use make  it 
possible to rule out the propagation of particularly dangerous pests and diseases . 
 
The products in question are essentially those listed under the following customs tariff chapters : 
 
- 6 (Live trees and other plants ; bulbs, roots and the like ; cut flowers and ornamental foliage ); 
- 7 (edible vegetables and certain roots and tubers ); 
- 10 (cereals ); 
- 12 (oil seeds and oleaginous fruits ; miscellaneous grains, seeds and fruit ; industrial or 
medicinal plants ; straw and fodder ). 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 21 - 
  3. The phytosanitary ce rtification regime applies to all plants for planting, irrespective of origin , with 
the exception of those  from the European Union (EU) . Plants other than those for planting , plant 
products and products  originating in countries oth er than t he EU m ember States, as  set out in Part 
B of Annex 5 to the Ordinance on plant protection  (for reference see point 5), are also subject to the 
phytosanitary certification regime . The import prohibition concerns the goods set out in Parts A and 
B of Annex 3 to the Ordin ance on plant protection , originating in countries where the phytosanitary 
situation is such that the goods present a clear risk of introducing pests and diseases of particular 
danger to Switzerland . For certain goods (e.g.  potatoes), prohibition extends t o all countries other 
than member countries of the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO).  
 
4. The purpose of the measures is to prevent the introduction of particularly dangerous pests and 
diseases (quarantine organisms) affecting  plants . The regimes governing plants, plant products and 
other items are frequently revised according to the phytosanitary situation in  Switzerland 
(information  on the current situation is available online at  http://www.servicephyto.ch , following the 
link Protection phytosanitaire dans le domaine de l 'agriculture et de l 'horticulture productrice ). 
 
5. Legal bases : The Law on Agricult ure of 29  April 1998 (RS 910.1) , and the Ordinance of the Federal 
Council  of 27  October  2010 on plant protection (RS 916.20) . The Ordinance on plant protection 
establishes which items are subject to the different regimes . The OFAG may issue an ordinance  
adopting  measures in the event of the appearance  of a new pest or disease  that could prove  
particularly dangerous , or if the  phytosanitary situation in a country  worsens as a result of  a 
particularly dangerous pest or disease  and the importation of certain goods originating in that 
country  would incur an increased phytosanitary risk for Switzerland  pending clarification of the 
potential damage by th is pest or disease . The Federal Council  has the authority under the law to 
decide on the items that are subject to the regimes described in point  2. The OFAG also has the 
statutory authority to adopt urgent and temporary measures . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable (no restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) Imports of goods under the phytosanitary certification regime must be notified  to the Federal 
Phytosanitary Service at the OFAG no later than the day  before  their arrival in 
Switzerland . 
 
(b) Not applicable . 
 
(c) Not applicable . 
 
(d) Not applicable . 
 
8. Not applicable . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b)  As indicated in point 1, the importation of plants and plant products subject to 
phytosanitary requirements is not subject to a phytosanitary licensing regime. A ll 
persons, firms and institutions are eligible to import such goods, provided that they 
are domiciled in Switzerland and registered with the SPF. Registration  is free of 
charge and may be requested using a form available for download at  
https://www.blw.admin.ch/blw/fr/home/nachhaltige -
produktion/pflanzenschutz/pflanzengesundheit -eidg-pflanzenschutzdienst.html . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Not a pplicable . 
 
11. Phytosanitary certificate (points 1 and 2). The phytosanitary certificate must not have 
been issued more than 14 days before the date on which  the goods left the country of 
dispatch . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 22 - 
   
12. Not applicable . 
 
13. Not applicable . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Not applicable . 
 
15. Not applicable . 
 
16. Not applicable . 
 
17.(a)-(b) Not applicable . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Goods which are subject to the phytosanitary certification regime are controlled by 
the Federal Phytosanitary Service (SPF) upon import . They must be notified to the SPF no 
later than the day before the control  is to take place . The following fees are charged for 
phytosanitary controls upon import : 
 
- basic fee per consignment : CHF 50 ; 
- fee per batch making up the consignment : CHF 10 per batch . 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
2.3  Protection of forest plants  
Outline of system  
1. The phy tosanitary provisions governing the import of forest plants help to avert the accidental 
introduction of pests and diseases which could threaten Swiss forestry . These provisions fall 
within the remit of t he Forestry D ivision of the Federal Office of the Environment (OFEV).  
Otherwise, the system outline d in point 2.2 for plants and plant products is also applicable 
here. The OFEV has assigned all operational aspects  to the SPF . Importers are entered in 
an official register managed by the SPF . 
Purposes  and coverage of licensing  
2. Phytosanitary measures applicable to the importation of forest plants , forest plant produ cts and 
other items include, on the one hand,  the prohibition of imports  and, on the other, the phytosanitary 
certification regime  in acc ordance with the procedures set out in the International Plant Protection 
Convention (IPPC) . Dispensation may be granted in the case of goods the import of which is 
prohibited or which cannot meet the mandatory phytosanitary requirements for obtaining a 
phytosanitary certificate . Dispensation is granted solely in the case of goods that are imported for 
research, selection, multiplication or diagnostic purposes, provided that the conditions for their 
intended use make it possible to rule out the propagation of particularly dangerous pests and 
diseases.  
 
The products in question are essentially those listed under the following customs tariff chapters : 
 
- 6 (Live trees and other plants ; bulbs, roots and the like ; cut flowers and  ornamental foliage ); 
- 14 (bark and bark products ); 
- 25/31/38 (soil and other substrates for cultivation ); 
- 44 (wood  and wood products ). 
 
3. The phytosanitary certification regime applies to all plants for planting  belonging to the  genera 
set out in Annex 11 to the Ordinance on plant protection , irrespective of their  origin , with the 
exception of those  from the European Union (EU) . Plants other than those for planting  and plant G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 23 - 
  products originating in countries other than  the EU m ember States , as set out in Part B of Annex 5  
to the Ord inance on plant protection  (for reference see point 5), are also subject to the phytosanitary 
certification regime . The import prohibition concern s the goods set out in Parts A and  B of Annex  3 
to the Ordinance on plant protection  (for reference see point 5) and specific goods originating in  
countries where the phytosanitary situation is such that the goods present a clear risk of introducing 
pests and diseases of particular danger to Switzerland . For certain goods (e.g. plants of specific  
conifer species),  prohibition extends to all countries other than European countries . 
 
4. The purpose of the measures is to prevent the introduction of particularly dangerous pests and 
diseases (quarantine organisms) affecting forest plants . The regimes governing plants, p lant 
products and other items are frequently revised according to the phytosanitary situation in 
Switzerland (information on the current situation is available online at http://www.servicephyto.ch , 
following the l ink Protection phytosanitaire dans le domaine des végétaux forestiers et des produits 
à base de bois  – OFEV Protection des forêts > Emballage en bois NIMP 15 ).  
 
5. Legal bases : The Federal Law on Forests of 4  October  1991 (LFo ; RS 921.0) , and the Ordinance 
of 27 October  2010 on plant protection (RS 916.20) . The items subject to the various  regimes are 
set forth in the Ordinance on plant protection  (Annex  3 and Annex  5, Part  B). The Federal Council 
has the authority under the law to decide on the items that are subject to the regimes described in 
point 2 above . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable (no restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) Imports of goods under the phytosanitary certification regime must be notified  to 
the Federal Phytosanitary Service 24 hours in advanc e. 
 
(b) Not applicable . 
 
(c) Not applicable . 
 
(d) Not applicable . 
 
8. Not applicable . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) As indicated in point 1, the importation of forest plants and plant products subject 
to phytosanitary requirements is not covered by  a phytosanitary licensing regime. 
All persons, firms and institutions are eligible  to import such goods, provided that 
they are domiciled in Switzerland and registered with the SPF. Registration is free 
of charge and may be requested using a form available for download at  
https://www.blw.admin.ch/blw/fr/home/nachhaltige -
produktion/pflanzenschutz/pflanzengesundheit -eidg-pflanzenschutzdienst.html . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Not applicable . 
 
11. Not applicable . 
 
12. Not applicable . 
 
13. Not applicable . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Not applicable . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 24 - 
  15. Not applicable . 
 
16. Not applicable . 
 
17.(a)-(b) Not applicable . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Goods which are subject to the phytosanitary certification regime are controlled by 
the Federal Phytosanitary Service (SPF) upon import. They must be notified to the SPF no 
later than the day before the control  is to take place . The following fees are charged for 
phytosanitary controls upon import : 
 
- basic fee per consignment : CHF 50; 
- fee per batch making up the consignment : CHF 10 per batch.  
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
3  CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES OF WILD FLORA 
AND FAUNA (CITES)  
3.1  Animals  
Outline of system  
1. The Federal Office for Food Security and Veterinary Affairs  (OSAV) is responsible for issuing import 
licences for the species co vered by the CITES Convention . CITES aims to ensure that no species is 
threatened with extinction as a result of non -sustainable international trade . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. List of products coming under the conservation of species : see Article 7 of the Federal Law on 
circulation of protected species of fauna and flora (LCITES ; RS 4538), the Ordinance on circulation 
of protected species of fauna and flora (OCITES ; RS 453.0) of 4 September  2013, and the Ordinance 
of the Federal Department of the Interior (DFI) on control of the circulation of protected species of 
fauna and flor a (Ordinance on CITES controls)  of 4 September  2013 (RS  453.1).  
 
3. No restrictions . 
 
4. No restrictions . For purpose, see point  1 above . 
 
5. Legislation on the protection of species with respect to the importation of animals and goods 
(Article 7 of the Federal Law on circulation of protected species of fauna and flora (LCITES ; RS 453) 
of 16 March  2012), requiring authorization pursuant to the Convention on In ternational Trade in 
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES ; RS 0.453) of 3 March  1973, and the Federal 
Law on Fisheries (LFSP ; RS 923.0) of 2 1 June 1991. It is not possible either to make the regime 
more flexible or to modify the legal bases . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) It is recommended that applications should be submitted at least one week in a dvance of 
importation . Only authorizations concerning the species listed in A ppendix  I of CITES require 
a slightly longer time -frame  owing to the procedure stipulated by the international treaty 
(consultat ion of scientific authorities) . However, many applications are processed on the day 
on which they are submitted . 
 
                                                
8 Available at  http://www.admin.ch/bundesrecht/00566/index.html?lang=fr  (in French, German and 
Italian only).  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 25 - 
  (b) Sometimes . In some cases, an approval, op inion or authorization is required from other 
services (cantonal veterinary services, Federa l Office for Agriculture [OFAG] , Federal Office of 
the Environment [OFEV], Technical Commission for the Conservation of Species ). 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) See point 7(b) above . The procedure is generally regulated so that the applicant needs to 
approach only two services (OSAV and OFAG).  
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the decision 
to the Federal Administrative Court and, at second instance, to the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) Not applicable . 
 
(b) All persons, firms an d institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided they are  
established on the Swiss customs territory . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Please refer to the website  https://www.blv.admin.ch/blv/en/home/import -und-
export/import/importe -aus-drittstaaten.html , following the link  Formulaire . 
 
11. Import licence (or, i f possible, accreditation as a professional importer), CITES documents, 
supplementary data sheet, as appropriate . 
 
12. No fee is charged for issuing the authorization itself . However, the border control is subject to a 
fee of CHF  88, which includes the cos t of establishing the authorization . 
 
13. As a rule, no . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import permits for protected species are valid for three months ; professional importer 
accreditation s are valid for two years . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. The licences are not transferable between eligible persons . 
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Sometimes . Subject to cantonal authorizations required by veterinary law and the laws on 
foodstuffs . 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by  any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
3.2  Plants and plant products  
Outline of system  
1. The Federal Office for Food Security and Veterinary Affairs (OSAV) is responsible for issuing the 
authorizations  for plants and p lant products listed in the Appendices  of the Convention  on 
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna an d Flora of 3  March  1973 (CITES) . CITES 
aims to ensure that no species is threatened with extinction as a result of non -sustainable 
international trade . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 26 - 
  Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. All plants and plant products listed in Appendix  I of the Convention on International 
Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora of 3  March  1973 (CITES) are subject 
to licensing . The plants and plant products listed in Appendices II and III are subject to 
licensing  only if they have been taken from the wild . Artificially propagated material is 
excluded therefrom . 
 
3. No restrictions . 
 
4. No restrictions . For purpose, see point 1 above . 
 
5. Legal bases : The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and 
Flora of 3  March  1973 (CITES) (RS. 0.453), the Ordinance on the conservation of species 
(OCE;  RS 453), and the Ordinance on CITES controls (RS 453.1).  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) The application must be submitted at least two weeks in advance of importation . Each 
application  for plants and plant products listed in Appendix I of the CITES and taken 
from the wild has to be reviewed by the scientific commission (scientific authority 
within the meaning of CITES, Article  IX). 
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) The importer needs to contact the Federal Office for Food Security and Veterinary 
Affairs  (OSAV), but each application for plants and pl ant products listed in 
Appendix  I of CITES and taken from the wild  has to be reviewed by the scientific 
commission . See point  (a) above . 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria 
set ou t in Article s III-V of CITES . The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, 
who has a right to appeal the decision to the Federal Administrative Court and, at second instance, 
to the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers t o apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided that they 
are domiciled in Switzerland . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. A copy of the CITES export document or of the re -export certificate must be submitted . 
In addition,  for plants and plant products listed in Appendix I of CITES and taken from the 
wild,  it is necessary to specify the reason for import and provide a description of the 
establishment an d facilities where the plants will be held . 
 
11. The phytosanitary certificate  and, where appropriate, the licence (authorization for goods for 
which dispensation has been granted).  
 
12.-13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity is six months . A request for extension can be made by sending the original 
licence, which will then be superseded . 
 
15.-17. No. G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 27 - 
   
Other procedural requirements  
18. Specimens are subject to control upon import pursuant to OCE requirements . 
 
19. Not applicable . 
 
4  FOREST REPRODUCTIVE MATERIAL  
Outline of system  
1. The Forestry Division of the Federal Office of the Environment (OFEV) is responsible for issuing 
the authorizations required by the regulations governing the import and export of forest reproductive 
material . The purpose of these measures remains above all to ensure the use of he althy and 
appropriate forest reproductive material at the place of reforestation . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The regulations cover certain varieties of trees that are important for Swiss forestry (11  varieties 
of conifers and 31  varieties of broad-leaved  trees) . See also Annex  1 to the Ordinance on forest 
reproductive material (RS 921.552.1).  
 
3. Countries in which the tree varieties in question grow naturally and permanently (Europe, 
North  America and Japan ). 
 
4. No. The purpose of the Ordinanc e is to ensure the supply of appropriate forest reproductive 
material, i.e.  suited to the geographical and climatic conditions of Switzerland . 
 
5. The Federal Law on Forests of 4  October  1991 (LFo ; RS 921.0) , the Ordinance on forests of 
30 November  1992 ( OFo; RS 921.01) , and the Ordinance of 29  November  1994 on forest 
reproductive material (RS 921.552.1) . The tree varieties subject to the Ordinance are listed in 
Annex  I thereto . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) 14 days. 
 
(b) Only where justified . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications  for import licences are examined by the OFEV's Forestry Division, which also 
issues the licence . 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria  
set out in Article III of CITES . The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who 
has a right to appeal the decision to the Federal Administrative Court and, at second instance, to 
the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided they are 
domiciled in Switzerland . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The application for an import licence m ust mention the variety of tree, the origin, the quantity, 
the supplier and the buyer . The importer must include in the application a certificate of origin for 
the tree varieties . There is no specific form . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 28 - 
   
11. Import licence and certificate of origin . 
 
12. A fee is charged for all import licence applications (to cover administrative expenses ). 
 
13. As a rule, no . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import licence is valid for six months, extendable for another six months on request . 
 
15.-17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
5  TRANSPLANTS  
Outline of system  
1. The Federal Office of Public Health (OFSP) is the body responsible for authorizing the import of 
unmanipulated organs, tissues and cells of human origin (other than  transplant products ) intended 
for transplantation into humans . The Transplantation Law seeks to guarantee the safe  handling of 
transplant products , in particular with a view to protecting donors and recipients . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. An authorization is required for the import of allogeneic organs, tissue and cells of human origin 
intended for transplantation into humans . 
 
3. All countries . 
 
4. The import authorization is granted when the products are in conformity with the relevant laws . 
The licence applies to the products and countries list ed therein . Otherwise, there is no restriction on 
the quantity and value of the products . 
 
5. The Federal Law of 8 October  2004 on the transplantation of organs, tissues and cells 
(Transplantation Law ; RS 810.21) , which entered into force on 1  July 2007. The import procedures 
are described, inter alia , in the Ordinance of 1 6 March  2007 on the transplantation of human organs, 
tissues and cells (Transplantation Ordinance ; RS 810.211) . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) Import  is not allowed without authorization . The authorization procedure takes about 
four months . In exceptional cases a shorter procedure can be envisaged . 
 
(b) No. 
 
(c)  Not applicable . 
 
(d)  The OFSP  is the sole organ responsible for examining applications . 
 
8. Only if the applicant does not meet the criteria is an authorization refused . The reasons will then 
be stated in the pre -authorization inspection report . There is a possibility to appeal . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 29 - 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, fi rms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import authorization provided that 
they are domiciled in Switzerland . Lists of the authorizations issued are published online at : 
https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/fr/home/service/gesuche -bewilligungen/  
gesuche -bewilligungen -bereich -transplantation.html . 
  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Different documents and certificates may be requested, depending on the type of transplant 
(according to application and corresponding checklist, available on the transplantation declarat ion 
and authorization web page of the OFSP,  http://www.donneestransplantation.admin.ch ). 
A pre-authorization inspection is mandatory . 
 
11. Once the authorization is issued, none (for importation ). 
 
12. CHF 500 to CHF  2,000 per authorization  (in addition to inspection ). 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity of the authorization is a maximum of five years with the possibility of 
renewal . 
 
15.-17. No. 
 
Other procedural requiremen ts 
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
6  BLOOD, BLOOD PRODUCTS AND IMMUNOLOGICAL PRODUCTS  
Outline of system  
1. An import licence is required f or the importation of blood, blood products and immunological 
products . Swissmedic, the Swiss Institute for Therapeutic Products, is the sole organ authorized to 
examine licence applications . The aim is to protect human and anim al health by guaranteeing that 
high-quality, safe and effective therapeutic products are placed on the market . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. A licence is required each time blood, blood products or immunological products are imported . 
For the prod ucts subject to this procedure, see the relevant laws and ordinances . The products 
covered are : 
 
(a) Blood and blood products ; and 
 
(b) immunological products , such as vaccines, toxins and serums . 
 
3. The regulations apply to imports of all goods, whatever  their origin (except Liechtenstein ). 
 
4. The import licence is granted when the products are in conformity with the relevant laws . The 
aim is to protect human and animal health by guaranteeing that high -quality, safe and effective 
therapeutic products are  placed on the market . 
 
5. The Federal Law on Medicinal Products and Medical Devices, dated 15  December  2000 
(RS 812.21) . The procedure for imports is described, inter alia , in the Ordinance of 1 7 October  2001 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 30 - 
  on authorizations regarding medicinal products  (RS 812.212.1) . Laws and amendments thereto must 
be adopted by Parliament . They contain all important provisions . Ordinances contain implementing 
provisions and must be based on a higher legal authority, a law . In this case, ordinances do not go 
through P arliament . Laws, ordinances and amendments thereto are published in the Official 
Compendium of Federal Law (RO) and the Systematic Compendium of Federal Law (RS) . A licence 
is required by law for every import of blood and blood products . In the case of imm unological 
products, this requirement is contained in an ordinance . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) In view of the time required to obtain a licence, the application must be submitted a few days 
in advance of the import ation itself . In normal situations the application is granted and 
returned within 24  hours of being filed . Exceptionally and in urgent situations, it may be 
granted upon request by fax . 
 
(b) Exceptionally . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Swissmedic  is the sole organ authorized to examine licence applications . 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appe al the decision 
to the administrative authority or to the Federal Administrative Court and, at  second instance, to 
the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Institutions wishing to import products subject to licen sing must obtain the necessary licence from 
Swissmedic in accordance with the relevant laws . The licence is granted if the institution meets 
certain specific operational and organizational conditions (e.g.  import, wholesale trade and export 
authorization, authoriz ation to take blood for transfusions or for the production of medicinal 
products) . Swissmedic regularly controls compliance with these conditions . The procedure for 
obtaining licences is regulated by the relevant ordinance . The list of authorized concerns is regularly 
published . Moreover, registered products may only be imported by the institutions in whose name 
they are registered . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Only the usual information is required . Samples of the  application form are available online at  
https://www.swissmedic.ch/bewilligungen/00155/00242/00243/00245/00246/00247/01902/index
.html?lang=fr , following the links  Formulaires   Importation à l'unité . Other certificates may be 
requested for a more detailed examination of the quality of the product s. 
 
11. In addition to the documents usually required by the customs services, only the application form 
is required . More specific information may be requested i n certain cases . 
 
12. CHF 100 per licence (see the Ordinance of 2 December  2011 on the fees of  the Swiss Institute 
for Therapeutic Products (RS 812.214.5)).  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity of the licence is one month, generally without the possibility of extension . 
 
15.-17. No. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 31 - 
  Other procedural requirements  
18. Certain  products, such as immunological products or stable blood products, must be registered 
beforehand by Swissmedic . Moreover, imported batches of registered products are controlled by the 
Official Medicines Control Laboratory (OMCL) of Swissmedic before being  placed on  the market . 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
7  NARCOTIC DRUGS, PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES AND PRECURSORS USED AND 
MARKETED FOR LEGAL PURPOSES  
Outline of system  
1. The purpose of the authorization system for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances is to 
ensure that imports are carried out for the sole purpose of satisfying legitimate medical and industrial 
needs . Article 5 of the Federal Law on Narcotics of 3  October  1951 (LStup ; RS 812.121) stipulates 
that a special authorization is required from Swissmedic, the Swiss Institute for Therapeutic 
Products, for all imports of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and  precursors . Depending on  
the substance involved, Swissmedic may issue single authorizations valid once for import, or general 
authorizations valid for imports carried out over a specific period of time up to the end of each 
calendar year . Swissmedic, thro ugh its Narcotics Division, is responsible for granting import/export 
authorizations . More detailed information may be obtained from th is body (email  address: 
narcotics@swissmedic.ch ). 
 
Purposes and coverage o f authorization regime  
2. All substances that are subject to the authorization system appear in the DFI Ordinance on the 
schedules of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, precursors and chemical additives 
of 30 May 2011 (Ordinance on the narcotic drugs schedules, OTStup -DFI, RS 812.121.11).  
 
3. All countries . 
 
4. Yes. The purpose of the authorization system is to ensure that imports (or exports) are carried 
out for the sole purpose of satisfying legitimate medical and  industrial needs . 
 
5. Article  5 of the Federal Law on Narcotics of 3  October  1951 (LStup ; RS 812.121) stipulates that 
a special authorization is required from Swissmedic, the Swiss Institute for Therapeutic Products, 
for all imports (or exports) of narcot ic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors . Article 7 and 
Chapter  3 of the Ordinance on the control of narcotic drugs of 2 5 May 2011 (OCStup ; RS 812.121.1) 
lay down the procedures for the granting of import (and export) authorizations . 
 
The authoriza tion system is maintained under federal laws . The Government does not have the 
authority to repeal them . It can, however, change certain details of the system, i.e.  the 
above -mentioned Ordinances . There is no delegation of authority to the administration . There is, 
however, a limited delegation of authority to the DFI, because Ordinance 812.121.11 of 
30 May 2011, which includes lists of all controlled substances that are subject to the permit system, 
is under the authority of the DFI . 
 
Procedures  
6.I. The q uantities that can be imported (and exported) are limited through a system of estimates 
coordinated by the UN and its International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) . Each country 
must report its annual needs in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances to t he INCB . If 
need be, requests for adaptations of the estimates may be submitted to the INCB, which 
approves them if they are legitimate . The INCB publishes the estimates for all of the countries, 
and updates them on a monthly basis . 
 
II. The estimates are sent once a year (for psychotropic substances once every three years) to 
the INCB . Import (and export) authorizations are issued only if the estimates have not been 
exceeded . Where they have been exceeded, a request for an additional estimate must be 
forwa rded to the INCB . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 32 - 
   
III. Import or export authorizations are granted only to holders of a cantonal or a Swissmedic 
authorization  to handle  controlled substances  or a special OFSP authorization . 
 
IV. There is no time -limit for the submission of applications provided the import or export 
quantities do not exceed the estimates . 
 
V. The time required for granting an import (or export) authorization is ten working days on 
average, assuming that all of the documentation and other requirements have been met . 
Where there is no estimate or the estimate is insufficient (a few cases each year), the 
time-limits are extended to as much as one month . 
 
VI. Import authorizations are valid from the date of issue . 
 
VII. As a rule, only Swissmedic considers authorization applic ations . If need be, Swissmedic 
cooperates with the cantons or the foreign competent authorities concerned, and the INCB . 
 
VIII. Applications are considered in the order in which they are received by the Swissmedic service . 
If an authorization application i s not complete or contains errors , Swissmedic informs the 
applicant by means of a form indicating the deficiencies in the application . 
 
IX. An import authorization is required f or every import of narcotic drugs, psycho tropic substances 
and precursors . Import/export authorizations are only issued upon request . 
 
X. The importing country is informed of any export authorization granted by receiving a copy of 
the authorization . 
 
XI. No. 
 
7. Not applicable . 
 
8. Any irregularities, no proven legitimate end -use and so on . In the event  of a refusal to issue an 
authorization, the reasons for refusal are given to the applicant, who has the right to appeal 
within  30 days to the Federal Department of Home Affairs . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for authorization  
9. All persons, firms and institutions may apply for an authorization provided they are holders of a 
cantonal , DFI or Swissmedic authorization to hand le controlled substances  or a special OFSP 
authorization . Swissmedic publishes the lists of persons, firms and institutions authorized by the 
cantons in accordance with the OCStup criteria . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for authorization  
10. The importer sends a n application for an import authorization, either  written or via the  NDS-WEB 
system,  listing the products to be imported and the corresponding quantities . A specific form is 
available on the relevant website .9 
 
11. A copy of the authorization issued by Swissmedic must be presented to Customs . 
 
12. CHF 100 for a single authorization ; CHF 200 for a general authorization (the total quantity to be 
imported/exported must be indicated in the application for authorization ). 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of authorization  
14. Single import authorizations are valid for four  months . General import authorizations are valid 
for 12  months  and expire on  31 December  of each calendar year . 
 
                                                
9 https://www.sw issmedic.ch/bewilligungen/00155/00242/00243/00411/index.html?lang=fr . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 33 - 
  15. No. 
 
16. Import authorizations are not transferable . 
 
17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
8  ETHANOL  
Outline of system  
1. The private sector is allowed to import ethanol and spirits containing not more than 80 % by 
volume without restriction and without any permit ; but only the Swiss Confederation is entitled, 
through  the Federal Customs Administration on behalf of the Swiss Alcohol Board  (RFA) , 
to import ethanol the alcohol content of which exceeds 80 % by volume (excluding ethanol used for 
fuel purposes) . However, imports by the private sector are possible subject to prior authorization by 
the Federal Customs Administration . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The products covered fall under  tariff h eadings 2207.10 and 2207.20  (see point  1 above ). 
 
3. These regulations apply to all imports of ethanol, irrespective of  origin . 
 
4. For control reasons, only the Swiss Confederation is entitled to import ethanol and spirits 
containing more than 80 % by volume . 
 
5. The alcohol legislation is based on Article  105 of the Federal Constitution, which gives the 
Confederation the sole right to legislate in this field . The specific legal basis for  the import licensing 
procedure  is the Federal Law on Alcohol of 21 June 1932 (RS 680).  
 
Procedures  
6. Import licences are generally only granted for ethanol qualities that are not put on the market by 
the Swiss Alcohol Board itself . However, Alcosuisse  SA, a profit centre of the Swiss Alcohol Board, 
which has respon sibility for the importation and sale of ethanol, endeavours to provide its clients 
with special ethanol qualities on request . 
 
7.(a) In view of the time required to obtain a licence, the application must be submitted three to 
five days in advance of the i mportation itself . 
 
(b) Generally, yes . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications are considered by a single authority, the Federal Customs Administration on 
behalf of the Swiss Alcohol Board (RFA) . 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the decision 
to the Federal Administrative Court and, at  second instance, to the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importer s to apply for licence  
9. As a rule, any natural or legal person domiciled in Switzerland is eligible, irrespective of nationality 
or origin, to receive a licence . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The application has to be submitted to the Federal Customs Administration . The importer 
sends a written application for an import authorization, listing the products to be imported and the 
corresponding qualities (purity, denaturation, etc.) and quantities . There is no specif ic form . 
 
11. A copy of the authorization issued by the Federal Customs Administration  must be 
presented upon importation . 
 
12.-13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The validity of the licence is generally limited to a single importation . 
 
15.-17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in 
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
9  GOODS OF VITAL AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL IMPORT ANCE SUBJECT TO 
COMPULSORY STOCKPILING  
Outline of system  
1. In accordance with Article  7 of the Federal Law on National Economic Supply (LAP;  RS 531), the 
Federal Council may subject certain goods of vital importance to compulsory stockpiling . To that 
end, it may place the products concerned under the import licensing regime . The granting of a 
licence is conditional upon the conclusion of a reserve stock contract . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. To ensure compulsory stockpiling, the Federal Council has placed the following goods of vital 
importance under the import licensing regime (tariff headings to be found in Article  1 of the 
respective ordinances, see point  5): 
 
- liquid fuels (Swiss Central Office for the Import of Liquid Fuels, CARBURA10); 
- sugar, rice, edible oils and fats, coffee, various  kinds of cereal , and energy -rich and 
protein -rich foods for use in animal feed (Réservesuisse Nahrungsvorsorge Schweiz, 
Réservesuisse11); 
- the above bodies grant general import licences under the authority o f the Federal Office for 
National Economic Supply . They allow importers to import the listed goods from all countries 
without quantitative restrictions and for an unlimited period of time . 
 
3. The regulations apply to imports of all goods, whatever their o rigin. 
 
4. No. The purpose of automatic licensing is to ensure compulsory stockpiling . The size of the 
compulsory reserve stocks of each importer is determined on the basis of the imports carried out 
(equal treatment for all importers ). 
 
5. Legal bases : The Federal Law on National Economic Supply (RS 531) , as well as the Ordinance 
on compulsory reserve stocks of foods and fodder (RS 531.215.11) and Ordinance on compulsory 
reserve stocks of liquid fuels  (RS 531.215.41) .  
 
                                                
10 Additional information in French, German, Italian and English available at: http://www.carbura.ch . 
11 Additional information in French, German and Italian available at: http://www.reservesuisse.ch . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a)-(b) Applications for a general import licence must be submitted a few days before importation . 
In urgent cases, the licence may be granted immediately by fax . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications are reviewed by a single service (s ee point  2 above ). 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the decision 
to the Federal Administrative Court and, at  second instance, to the Federal Supreme Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. In principle, all persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence . 
 
Documentational and other requirem ents for application for licence  
10. Only the usual information is required . Samples of the various application forms are available 
on the websites of, respectively, the Swiss Central Office for the Import of Liquid Fuels 
(http://www.carbura.ch/fr/permis -generaux -dimportation -pgi) and the Réservesuisse 
Nahrungsvorsorge  Schweiz  (http://www.reservesuisse.ch/index.php?id=8&L=1&type=2012 ). 
 
11. In addition to the number of the automatic licence and the documents usually required by the 
customs services, certain certificates, such as certificates of origin or sanitary or phytosanitary  
certificates (see Chapter  II), are required according to the product . 
 
12. No fees . 
 
13. As a rule, no . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The validity is not limited as long as the conditions on which the licence was granted are met . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. The licences  are not transferable between eligible persons . 
 
17.(b) The issuing of the licence is subject to the payment of the portions of the customs duty that 
are not collected by the Federal Customs Administration . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports is automatically provided by the banks . There 
are no restrictions on foreign exchange . 
 
10  WAR MATERIAL, WEAPONS  
10.1  War material  
Outline of system  
1. The purpose of the regime is to establish control over the origin, nature and destination of the 
war material in question . The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, Division of export controls and 
sanctions, is responsible for examining applications for authorization . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The war mater ial the import of which is subject to authorization is listed in Annex  1 to the 
Ordinance . 
 
3. All countries . 
 
4. The purpose of the regime is to establish control over the origin, nature and destination of the 
war material in question . 
 
5. The regime of authorizations for the import of war material is laid down in Article  107, 
paragraph  2, of the Federal Constitution (RS 101) . Thus, the Government does not have the 
authority to abolish it . The products subject to this regime are listed in Annex  1 to the O rdinance on 
war material, which is a governmental text . Importation of war material is subject to the 
authorization regime laid down in the Federal Law on War Material of 13  December  1996 
(RS 514.51) and the Ordinance on war material of 25  February  1998 (R S 514.511) . The Law and 
the Ordinance do not apply to imports of war material for the Swiss Army ; other exceptions are 
mentioned in Article  17(4) of the Law . 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a)-(b) There are no standards re quired by the Law or the Ordinance . However, it is recommended 
that applications for authorization should be submitted at least seven days in advance of the 
scheduled date of importation . In exceptional cases, applications may be processed in a 
shorter period . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) A single body (the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, Division of export controls and 
sanctions, of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research – DEFR) is 
responsible for examining applications for authoriz ation. 
 
8. Authorizations are not granted if they are contrary to international law or if they are not in the 
interests of Switzerland . Refusals have to be announced in a decision that contains the reasons for 
the denial . The right to appeal is guaranteed by the federal law on procedures . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person, firm or institution is eligible to apply for an import licence . They must, however, first 
register with the electronic licensing system via the site  http://www.elic.admin.ch . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications for import authorizations must contain the name and address of the supplier and of 
the importer/applicant,  a precise description of the war material, its weight and its value, its customs 
tariff number and its category (in accordance with the list in Annex  1 to the Ordinance), the exporting 
country and (if possible) the scheduled date of the import . 
 
11. Impor t licence . 
 
12. 0.8% of the value of the imported goods, but at least CHF  50 and at the most  CHF 5,000 per 
licence . 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import authorization is valid for one  year. It is possible to obtain one extension of six  months . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 37 - 
  15.-17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. No. 
 
10.2  Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, 
Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction (CWC)  
Outline of system  
1. Imports of chemica ls controlled by Schedule  1 of the CWC are subject to an import licence to 
prevent the development, production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons . The State 
Secretariat for Economic Affairs is responsible for examining licence applications . 
 
Purposes  and coverage of licensing  
2. The Schedule  1 chemicals that are concerned are listed in the Annex to the Ordinance of the Swiss 
Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (DEFR) on dual -use chemicals 
(OCPCh) and reflect the commitments undertaken by Switzerland under the CWC . 
 
3. From all countries on a case -by-case basis (non -automatic licensing ). 
 
4. The purpose of the regime is to prevent the development, production, stockpiling and use of 
chemical weapons . 
 
5. The Federal Law on the control of goods used for civilian and military purposes and specific military 
goods (RS 946.202) of 13  December  1996, and the Ordinance on the control of chemical products 
used for civilian and military purposes (OCPCh ; RS 946.202.21) of 21 August  2013. Switzerland has 
signed the internationally binding CWC and is therefore obliged to comply with the provisions of this 
Convention . The products subject to this regime are listed in the Annex to the Ordinance of the 
Swiss  Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (DEFR) on the control of 
chemical products used for civilian and military purposes (OCPCh).  
 
Procedures  
6. The aggregate amount of such chemicals must not exceed one tonne  at any time . Each imp orter 
has to notify the Government of the total amount of imported Schedule  1 chemicals . This has to be 
done at the latest 60  days following the end of a calendar year . 
 
7.(a)-(b) Applications for authorizations must be submitted at least 40  days in advanc e of the 
scheduled date of importation . In the relevant Ordinance there are no exceptions foreseen 
for a shorter period . Licences are granted on a case -by-case basis . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO : 
https://www.seco.admin.ch/seco/en/home.html ), Division of export controls and sanctions, 
industrial products, is responsible for examining licence applications . 
 
8. Licences are only granted if the purpose of the importation is not contrary to the provisions of the 
CWC. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person, firm or institution is eligible to apply for an import licence . They must, however, first 
register with the electronic li censing system via the site https://www.elic.admin.ch/elic/ext/?login . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Applications for import authorizations must contain the  name and address of the supplier and  
the importer and applicant, the chemical name and structural formula of the product and its Chemical 
Abstracts Service (CAS) registry number, the quantity, the country of origin, the shipping country, 
and the scheduled date of importation . The followin g documents must be presented : official 
application form, invoice, a detailed description with regard to the end -use of the chemicals , and an 
undertaking that the chemicals will be used exclusively for research, medical, pharmaceutical or 
protective purposes in accordance with the provisions of the CWC . 
 
11. Import licence . 
 
12. There is no licensin g fee or administrative charge . 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import authorization is valid for two years . However, this time -frame can be extended for a  
further two -year period . 
 
15. No. 
 
16. The licence is valid for two years, with the possibility of a two -year extension . 
 
17. The importer has to notify the Government of the total amount of Schedule  1 chemicals imported 
during the past year . This has to be done at the latest 60  days following the end of a calendar year . 
 
Other procedural  requirements  
18.-19. No. 
 
10.3  Weapons, their accessories and ammunition  
Outline of system  
1. The main purpose of the entry regulations is to prevent illegal traffic in weapons, integral parts 
of weapons, etc. T he competent authority for the issue of authorizations is the Central Office for 
Arms, attached to the Federal Office of Police (Federal Department of Justice and Police12). 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. All objects which are considered under Swiss law as weapons, integral parts of weapo ns, specially 
designed parts of weapons or accessories to weapons, ammunition and parts of ammunition in 
accordance with Articles  1 to 8 of the Weapons Ordinance (see point  6 below ). 
 
3. These provisions apply irrespective of the country of origin of  such goods . 
 
4. The main purpose of the entry regulations is to prevent illegal traffic in weapons, integral parts 
of weapons , etc. 
 
5. On 12  December  2008, two revisions of the Federal Law on Weapons, Accessories and 
Ammunition (Weapons Act, LArm ; RS 514.54) entered into force . The first revision arose from 
adjustments to Schengen, i.e.  the implementation in Swiss law of Directive 91/477/EEC on control 
of the acquisition and possession of weapons of the Council of the European Communities . The 
second, known as  a "national" revision, was carried out to remedy the existing gaps in the 
implementation of the 1997 Weapons Act . Two revisions of the Ordinance on weapons, accessories 
and ammunition (Weapons Ordinance, OArm : RS 514.541) entered into force at the same ti me. 
                                                
12 Additional information available at: 
http://www.fedpol.admin.ch/fedpol/fr/home/themen/sicherheit/waffen.html  (in French, German and Italian 
only).  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 39 - 
  These statutes supplement the federal laws on war material and on the control of dual -use goods . 
Small arms (shoulder weapons and handguns), airguns, CO 2 guns, imitation guns, alarm guns and 
soft air guns, if at first sight they resemble genuine firear ms, and other weapons, such as knives, 
truncheons, as well as integral parts of weapons, accessories and ammunition, are subject to these 
provisions . Some goods are subject to both the law on war material and the weapons legislation . 
 
The entry licensing p rocedure is governed by the legal provisions cited above, in particular Articles  24 
to 25(a) of the LArm and Articles  34 to  42 of the OArm . The Weapons Act and the Weapons 
Ordinance stipulate which objects are subject to authorization and which annexes mus t be submitted 
with the application for authorization to enter weapons . The Weapons Ordinance may be amended 
by the Executive, but only in the framework of the Weapons Act . Articles  25(3) and  25(a)(3) of the 
Weapons Act state that the Executive may provide  for derogations to the authorization regime in 
respect of certain objects and certain cate gories of person . To this end, the Executive introduced 
new rules under Article  40(3) of the OArm for hunters and sports shooters and under Article  42 of 
the OArm fo r different categories of person . 
 
Procedures  
6.I. Customs authorities supply statistical reports on entries (quantity, commodity value, country 
of consignment ). 
 
II. The entry of weapons etc. for non -professional purposes is subject to authorization which , 
according to Article  39(2) of the OArm is valid for six months and may be extended for 
a maximum of three months . The entry authorization gives entitlement to enter a maximum 
of three weapons or three integral parts of weapons at a time within this perio d (Article  39(2) 
OArm) . The entry authorization for professional purposes is issued as a single authorization 
for the first year . To obtain the single authorization, the applicant must attach to the 
application a copy of his/her trading licence . The authorization is valid for six months and may 
be extended by no more than three months (Article  36(3) OArm) . If the holder of the single 
authorization has not been the subject of any challenge or objection regarding his/her activity 
for one year, he/she  may request that the authorization be made a general authorization . A 
general authorization is valid for 12 months and the holder may enter an unlimited number of 
weapons (apart from prohibited weapons ). 
 
III. Anyone wishing to enter weapons for non -professional purposes under Articles  4 and  5 of the 
LArm must possess an authorization for the introduction of such weapons into Swiss territory, 
except in the case of the persons referred to in Articles  40(3) and  42 of the OArm . In addition, 
persons domiciled abroad and foreign nationals domiciled in Switzerland who do not have a 
residence permit must submit to the competent cantonal authority an official certificate from 
their State of domicile or their country  of origin authorizing them to purchase a weapon o r an 
integral part of a weapon . The nationals of certain States referred to in Article  12 of the OArm 
must be in possession of a special authorization, since in principle the persons concerned are 
prohibited from purchasing weapons . 
 
 Authorizations issued  for entry for non -professional purposes are valid for six months only 
(with the possibility of a three -month extension) and give entitlement to enter not more than 
three weapons etc. at a time within the specified period (Article  39(2) OArm) . After expira tion 
of the specified period, a new authorization may be applied for . Non-use of an authorization 
has no cumulative effect, that is, unused allocations may not be added to quotas for a 
succeeding period . 
 
 The names of authorized importers are made known o n request only . 
 
 The entry authorization for professional purposes is issued as a single authorization for the 
first year . To obtain the single authorization, the applicant must attach to the application 
a copy of his/her trading licence . The authorizatio n is valid for six months and may be 
extended by no more than three months (Article  36(3) OArm) . If the holder of the single 
authorization has not been the subject of a challenge or objection relating to his/her activity 
for one year, he/she may request th at the authorization be made a general authorization . 
A general authorization is valid for 12 months and gives entitlement to enter an unlimited 
number of weapons (apart from prohibited weapons ). 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  IV. As a rule, at least three working days . 
 
V. The minimum  length of time is three days and the maximum may vary according to the 
complexity of the file . 
 
VI. After the granting of an authorization, the holder may enter weapons, etc. immediately . 
 
VII. The Central Office for Arms (Articles  5(5) and  25(2) LArm) is  the sole agency authorized to 
issue entry authorizations . 
 
VIII.-XI. Not applicable . 
 
7.(a) Licence applications must be submitted before entry . 
 
(b) They may be granted immediately if the conditions so warrant . 
 
(c) The general authorization for weapons for professional purposes, whereby an unlimited 
number of weapons may be introduced, is valid for a period of 12 months (Article  38(3) 
OArm) . Licences for the entry for non -professional purposes of prohibited weapons s ubject to 
authorization or subject to declaration are valid for a period of six months, extendable by no 
more than three months (Article  39(2) OArm ). 
 
(d)  Pursuant to Article  24(3) and Article  25(2) of the Weapons Act, the Central Office for Arms 
issues a uthorizations for the entry for commercial purposes of integral parts of weapons, 
specially designed parts of weapons, ammunition and parts of ammunition . 
 
8. Articles  5(5) and  25 of the LArm and Articles  35 and  39-42 of the OArm  provide information on 
the conditions for granting an authorization for entry into Swiss territory for non -professional 
purposes . Articles  5 and  24-24(c) of the LArm and Articles  34 and  36-38 of the OArm provide 
information on the conditions for granting an authorization for entry into Swiss territory for 
professional purposes . Article 30 of the LArm sets forth the conditions under which a licence may be 
revoked . The Law on Federal Administrative Procedures (PA ; RS 172.021) governs the appeals 
procedure in  cases where a licence application has been refused or revoked . Refusal of an 
authorization is notified by a decision . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.(a) Anyone seeking to introduce weapons for non -professional purposes under Articles  4 and  5 of 
the LArm must be in possession of an authorization for entry into Swiss territory, except in 
the case of persons covered by Article  40(3) or Article  42 of the OArm . Moreover, persons 
domiciled abroad and fore ign nationals domiciled in Switzerland who do not hold a residence 
permit must submit to the competent cantonal authority an official certificate from their State 
of domicile or their country of origin authorizing them to purchase a weapon or an integral 
part of a weapon . The nationals of certain States mentioned in Article  12 of the OArm must 
be in possession of a special authorization, since the persons concerned are in principle 
prohibited from purchasing weapons . 
 
(b) Authorizations issued for the entry  for non -professional purposes are valid for six months only 
(with the possibility of a three -month extension) and give entitlement to enter a  maximum of 
three weapons, etc. at a time within the specified period (Article  39(2) OArm) . After expiration 
of the specified period , a new authorization may be applied for . Non-use of an authorization 
has no cumulative effect, that is, unused allocations may not be added to quotas for a 
succeeding period . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for li cence  
10. Applicants for a licence to enter weapons, etc. for professional purposes are required to complete 
an official form and file it, together with a photocopy of the ir weapons trading licence, to the Central 
Office for Arms (Articles  36-38 OArm ). 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
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  Applicants for a licence to enter weapons etc. for non -professional purposes are required to complete 
an official form and file it with the Central Office for Arms . The following documents must be attached 
(Article  39 OArm ): 
 
(a) a copy of the authorization issued by the competent cantonal authority if the object to be 
introduced into Swiss territory is subject to the authorization regime ; 
(b) an extract from the Swiss register of convictions issued not more than three months prior to 
the filing of the application ; 
(c) a copy of a valid passport or identity card ; 
(d) an official certificate from their State of domicile or their country of origin authorizing them to 
purchase a weapon in the case of persons domiciled abroad or persons not in possession of a 
residence permit . 
 
Applicants for a licence to enter prohibited weapons under Article  5(1) of the LArm and Article  35(1) 
of the OArm for non -professional purposes are required to complete an official form and file it with 
the Central  Office for Arms . The following documents must be attached : 
 
(a)  a special cantonal authorization under Article  5(4) of the LArm ; 
(b)  a copy of a valid passport or identity card . 
 
In order to obtain a licence to enter prohibited weapons, etc. for profess ional purposes (Article  5(1) 
LArm and Article  34 OArm), the relevant form must be submitted to the Central Office for Arms 
(OCA), accompanied by the following documents : 
 
(a)  a copy of the weapons trading licence ; 
(b)  a special cantonal authorization, in accordance with Article  5(4) of the LArm ; 
(c)  an attestation that the objects are necessary to cover the needs of the Army, the military 
authorities or the customs and police authorities or those of security firms, and  that the 
persons making the order have a special authorization for those objects . 
 
11. No further documents are required upon actual entry . 
 
12. The licensing fees are : 
 
- CHF 50 for entry for professional purposes under a single authorization (Annex  I(k) OArm ); 
- CHF 150 for entry for professional purposes under a general authorization (Annex  I(n) OArm ); 
- CHF 50 for entry for non -professional purposes (Annex  I(o) OArm),  
- CHF 20 to  150 for special authorization for entry i nto Swiss territory (Annex  I(c)1-8 OArm ); 
- CHF 20 for extensions of authorizations (Annex  I(l) and  (p) OArm ). 
 
13. Fees up to CHF  1,000 m ay be charged in advance or against reimbursement (Article  57 OArm) . 
The law does not require a deposit . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. A single authorization for entering a single consignment of weapons for professional purposes is 
valid for six months . The competent authority may extend its validity for no more than three  months 
(Article  36(3) OArm ). 
 
General authorizations for the entry of weapons, etc. for professional purposes are valid 
for 12 months (Article 37(3) OArm) . Upon expiration, a new licence may be applied for . 
 
Licences for the entry for non -professional pur poses of prohibited weapons, etc. subject to 
authorization or subject to declaration are valid for six months, extendable by no more than 
three  months (Article  39(3) OArm ). 
 
Upon expiration, a new licence may be applied for . 
 
15. Holders of a licence are f ree to make use of the licence, or a portion of it, as they see fit . There 
is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence . 
 
16. Entry licences are made out to the holder and are not transferable . G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 42 - 
   
17. No further restrictions . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No further restrictions . 
 
19. There is freedom of exchange operations . 
 
11  EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS AND PYROTECHNIC DEVICES FOR CIVILIAN USE  
Outline of system  
1. The import licensing procedure is needed to guarantee public safety in Switzerland in  the area of 
explosive materials and pyrotechnic devices for civilian use . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Articles  2-7 of the Ordinance define explosives and pyrotechnic devices, which are subject to 
import authorization . 
 
3. All countries . 
 
4. The import licensing procedure is needed to guarantee public safety in Switzerland in the area in 
question . 
 
5. The Federal Law on Explosive Substances of 25  March  1977 (RS 941.41) and the Ordinance on 
explosive substances of 27  November  2000 (RS 941.411) gov ern the importation of explosives and 
pyrotechnic devices . The above statutory provisions govern the import licensing procedure . The 
Government cannot repeal these provisions . However, Article  24(3) of the Ordinance provides that 
the Federal Department of Justice and Police may exempt certain pyrotechnic devices from the 
requirement of authorization, provided that these devices are an integral part of articles which 
themselves are subject to a recognized licensing procedure (e.g.  pyrotechnic propellant char ges as 
used in air bag units of cars ). 
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) Licences for the importation of standard explosives and pyrotechnic devices are granted within 
a few days . The procedure for the licensing of articles which are subject to prior approval 
procedures may take up to six months . 
 
(b) By way of exception, a licence may be granted by telephone and without delay . 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications for import licences are dealt with by a single administrative body. 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse a licence application other than failure to meet the specific criteria . 
The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has no right to appeal the 
decision . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person, firm or institution is eligible to apply for a licence . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 43 - 
  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence13 
10. Only the usual information is required for the applications : applicant's name and address ; type 
and quan tity of the product to be imported and chemical composition ; manufacturer's or importer's 
name ; warehouse of destination in Switzerland.  
 
11. Import licence . 
 
12. Depending on the time required to process the application, the licensing fees may range 
from CHF 50 to CHF  1,000 . 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import authorization is valid for three months . It is possible to obtain two extensions of 
three  months each . 
 
15.-17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports is automatically provided by the banks . There 
are no restrictions on foreign exchange . 
 
12  NUCLEAR FUEL, DEBRIS AND WASTE  
Outline of system  
1. The purpose of the regime is to establish control over the origin, nature and destination of nucl ear 
fuel, debris and waste from nuclear facilities within the framework of the Non -Proliferation Treaty 
and bilateral cooperation agreements . Applications for authorization are examined by the Federal 
Energy Office (which has the authority to grant the lic ence) and the Federal Nuclear Safety 
Inspectorate (responsible for the transport of class  7 dangerous goods ). 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. See point  1 above . 
 
3. No restrictions except as provided in the law . 
 
4. The purpose of the regime is to establish control over the origin, nature and destination of nuclear 
fuel, debris and waste from nuclear facilities within the framework of the Non -Proliferation Treaty 
and bilateral cooperation agreements . 
 
5. The importati on of nuclear fuel, debris and waste from nuclear facilities is subject to an 
authorization regime under the Law on Nuclear Energy of 21  March  2003 (LENu ; RS 732.1) and the 
Ordinance of 10  December  2004 on nuclear energy (OENu ; RS 732.11) . The importation of 
radioactive materials other than nuclear fuel, debris and waste from nuclear facilities is subject to 
the authorization regime set forth in the Law on Radiation Protection of 22  March  1991 
(LRaP;  RS 814.50) and the Ordinance on radiation protection of 2 2 June 1994 (ORaP ; RS 814.501 ). 
 
The licensing regime is governed by federal laws, which the Government does not have the authority 
to repeal . The Government may, however, change certain details of the regime, i.e.  the 
above -mentioned Ordinances . There is no delegation of authority to the administration . 
 
                                                
13 Further information available at: http://www.fedpol.admin.ch/fedpol/fr/home.html  (in French, 
German and Italian only).  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 44 - 
  Procedures  
6. Not applicable  (no quantitative restrictions ). 
 
7.(a) The application for import must be submitted two months in advance of the scheduled 
importation date . In exceptional cases, the time -limit may be shortened . 
 
(b)-(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications for authorization are examined by the Nuclear Law Section of the Federal Energy 
Office (which has the authority to grant the licence) and the Federal Nuclear Safety 
Inspectorate (IFSN ; responsible for the transport of class  7 dangerous goods) . No list of 
authorized importers is published . 
 
8. No other circumstances . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions meeting the requirements set forth in the relevant la ws and 
ordinances are eligible to apply for an import licence . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The information to be provided in applications is specified in a model form . 
 
11. Import licence, container certificate and validation . 
 
12. The fee is calculated in accordance with the time spent . 
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The import authorization is valid for a maximum of 12 months and may be extended for 
six months at most (at the authorization holder's reque st). 
 
15.-17. No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. An authorization for heavy vehicles (more than 28  tonnes) could be required for road transport . 
 
19. There are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
13 REDUCTION  OF RISKS RELATING T O THE USE OF CERTAIN  PARTICULARLY DANGER OUS 
SUBSTANCES, PREPARAT IONS AND ARTICLES (M ERCURY)  
Outline of system  
1. In order to implement the Minamata Convention on Mercury, ratified by Switzerland on 
25 May 2017, which seeks  to establish measures aimed at regulating the supply and demand of 
mercury at international level, the legislation on chemical products was amended so as to introduce 
a control system for imports of mercury, mercury compounds and mercury alloys. These pro ducts 
can only be imported after import authorization has been issued. Certain exceptions to this rule may, 
however, apply where the products concerned are imported for research and development purposes.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The import li censing system  concerns mercury (CAS No. 7439-97-6), preparations with a mercury 
content of 95% or more by mass , mercury alloys,  and certain mercury compounds (tariff 
headings  2805.4000, 2852.1010, 2852.1090 and  2852.9000.  G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 45 - 
   
3. The system applies regardless  of where the goods originate/come from .  
 
4. The purpose of the measure is to ensure complianc e with the Minamata Convention and limit and 
control the amounts of mercury imported . 
 
5. The import system is maintained under  the provisions of Annex  1.7 to the Chemical Ri sk Reduction 
Ordinance (ORRChim , RS 814.81). The Government has the authority to modify the content of these 
provisions, in particular with regard to import restrictions, under the L aw of 15 December 2000 on 
chemical products (LChim, RS  813.1) and the L aw of 7 October 1983 on environmental protection 
(LPE, RS 814.01) . 
 
Procedures  
 
6. Not applicable (no restrictions).  
 
7.(a) In view of the time required by the competent authority to issue the licence (30 days from 
when all the required docume ntation is received), the application should be submitted at least 
one month  in advance of the importation itself. In exceptional cases, a licence may be obtained  
in less time if all the required documentation (cf. 10) is present . 
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Applications are considered by a single authority, the Federal Office of the Environment  
(OFEV) . 
 
8. There are no reasons to refuse an application for a licence other than failure to meet the specific 
criteria.  The reasons for any refusal are communicated to the applicant, who has a right to appeal 
the decision to the Federal Administrative Court and, at second instanc e, to the Federal Supreme 
Court . 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 
9. In principle, a ll persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
 
10. Applications for import authorizations must contain the name and address of the applicant , the 
name and address of the foreign exporter, the chemical name, tariff item number, intended use and  
anticipated amount  of each substance and preparation to be imported, and confirmation by the 
importer that the substance or preparation to be imported is not intended for re -export. If the 
exporting countr y is not party to the Minamata Convention , written confirmation that the mercury 
does not come from  either primary mercury mining or the chlorine -alkali industry is required . 
 
11. The licence number must be transmitted to the customs authorities prior to i mportation and a 
copy of the impo rt licence may be required upon actual importation . 
 
12. Administrative fees , governed by the O rdinance of 18 May 2005 on fees with respect to chemical 
products ( OEChim. RS 813.153.1) , are charged according to  the amount of time actually taken to 
process the application . 
 
13. No . 
 
Conditions of licensing  
 
14. Import licences are granted for a maximum of 12 months and cannot be extended ( unless a new 
application is filed ). 
 
15. No . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CHE/14  
- 46 - 
  16. No . 
 
17. No . 
 
Other procedural requirements  
 
18. No . 
 
19. There are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force . 
 
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