Knowledge and practice
Importing vehicles into Switzerland
Whether it’s a car, motorcycle or commercial vehicle: clean paperwork, the right customs declaration and a clear process matter. This page consolidates the key basics in a practical way.
1) Basics: import, export, transit
Import, export and transit – the three basic cases for vehicle border crossings.
Import
Vehicle is permanently imported into Switzerland. Customs declaration, VAT and car tax (if applicable) are due. Registration with the road traffic office follows.
Export
Vehicle permanently leaves Switzerland. An export declaration may be required depending on destination. VAT refund may be possible.
Transit
Vehicle passes through a territory without being permanently imported. Often a T1 document or Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) is required.
Cross-border vehicle movements typically involve import (into Switzerland), export (out of Switzerland) and transit (moving through). Depending on the route, a transit document (e.g. T1) can be relevant.
Duties when importing a vehicle into Switzerland
What is due? Concrete rates and special rules.
8,1 %
VAT
On vehicle value incl. transport costs to destination (CIF value).
4 %
Car tax
For passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. Based on vehicle value.
CO₂
CO₂ penalty
If targets are exceeded for new cars and vans. Calculated via ASTRA.
0 %
Relocation goods
Vehicles may be imported duty-free if registered to the importer abroad for at least 6 months.
ℹ️ The current requirements of BAZG and ASTRA apply. Exact duties depend on vehicle type, origin and import case.
2) Importing into Switzerland: typical steps
From preparation to registration – the typical process at a glance.
- 1Prepare: vehicle data, purchase documents, proof of identity, export paperwork if applicable.
- 2Plan transport (drive yourself or use a carrier).
- 3Handle customs clearance and keep all proofs.
- 4Afterwards: prepare registration with the cantonal road traffic office.
- 5Form 13.20 A – obtain the clearance certificate (since Dec 2024 also digitally via Stadi).
3) Documents: what is often needed
Complete documents save time and avoid problems at customs clearance.
Purchase contract / invoice
With vehicle value in CHF or convertible currency incl. transport costs.
Vehicle registration / CoC
Foreign vehicle registration or Certificate of Conformity (type approval).
Proof of identity
Passport or ID of the importer or authorized company.
Origin certificate (EUR.1 / REX)
For preferential tariff rates from countries with a FTA with Switzerland.
Customs declaration (e-dec / Passar)
Electronic import customs declaration with BAZG.
ASTRA CO₂ notification (if applicable)
Since 1.1.2024 exclusively digital via ASTRA's "Fahrzeugimport CO2" application.
CO₂ compliance & type approval (ASTRA)
Mandatory for new cars and vans – what you need to know.
CO₂ penalty
Passenger cars and vans are subject to CO₂ targets. If the vehicle exceeds the target, a penalty is levied retrospectively by the Federal Office of Energy. Import and manufacturing data must be reported via ASTRA (since 1.1.2024 exclusively digitally).
Type approval
Series-produced vehicles require type approval (homologation) from ASTRA. This is waived for individual imports for personal use. Individually imported vehicles undergo an individual inspection by the cantonal registration authority before registration.
Transit & T1 document
If a vehicle is moved through a territory without being finally imported there, a transit procedure can be required. This is especially relevant for multi-country routes.
Specialist help
For CO₂ compliance and type approval, specialized agencies (e.g. Bourse-CO2, CO2 Börse AG, DTC Dynamic Test Center AG) can be engaged.
7) Customs offices & border points (orientation)
Depending on the route, different customs offices are relevant. Opening hours and responsibilities can vary—check in advance what fits your case.
FAQ
Common questions about vehicle customs in Switzerland – answered concisely.
Which documents are typically required to import a vehicle into Switzerland?
Typical documents include the purchase contract/invoice, foreign registration papers, proof of identity, and customs/import paperwork. Depending on the case, additional proofs (e.g. origin/preference, technical documents) may be required.
What is the difference between import, export and transit (T1)?
Import covers declaration/duties when bringing a vehicle into Switzerland. Export is the declaration when leaving Switzerland. Transit (e.g. T1) is used when a vehicle is moved through a territory without being finally imported there.
Do I need form 13.20 A to register a vehicle in Switzerland?
Very often yes—13.20 A is a key proof of customs clearance for many import cases. See our dedicated 13.20 A page for details and FAQs.
Which cost components are common when importing a vehicle?
Common components: transport costs, customs/import duties (depending on origin/rules), Swiss VAT, and possibly further vehicle-related charges. There are often additional fees for paperwork/handling and later registration steps.
When does the CO₂ penalty matter for imports?
For certain imports (e.g. very new vehicles), CO₂ requirements can be relevant. The exact assessment depends on the vehicle and current official rules—this page provides an overview and links to further sources.
Look up terms in the glossary
Next steps
For deeper guidance, use our focused entry points (status selection, curated links, 13.20 A explanation).