Switzerland Removes Quarantine For All Travelers

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Last Updated 3 years ago

After enforcing quarantine on November 27, Switzerland has reversed the decision and dropped quarantine for all arrivals. The news is a massive relief to U.S, British, and Canadian travelers visiting Switzerland this winter.

A statement said, “In order to continue to prevent the new Omicron variant from entering the country as far as possible, a stricter testing regime will now apply for all arrivals into Switzerland.”

“This testing requirement also applies to those who have been vaccinated or have recovered from the disease.”

Although the nation will implement stricter testing requirements, there will be no countries on the self-isolation list from December 4. 

The Entry Requirements 

Under the new entry requirements, travelers entering Switzerland must take a PCR test before arrival, as well as a second PCR test or rapid antigen between the fourth and seventh day after arrival. Travelers need to pay for the testing costs. 

Travelers will also need to show proof of vaccination. Currently, unvaccinated tourists are not allowed to enter Switzerland. 

“Non-vaccinated third-country nationals wishing to enter the Schengen area from countries or regions at risk will be refused entry to Switzerland for short-term stays without gainful employment of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days – apart from certain exceptions (hardship cases).” said a statement from the Swiss authorities. 

Switzerland has the following vaccine requirements:

• The vaccine has been authorized in Switzerland 
• The vaccine has been authorized by the European Medicines Agency 
• The vaccine has been authorized by the WHO 

The vaccine must have been administered in the previous 12 months. Switzerland is one of the world’s first countries to enforce booster vaccine restrictions. If your vaccination dose is older than 12 months, you’ll need a booster vaccine to enter Switzerland. 

Switzerland requires a full vaccine certificate with your surname, date of birth, date of vaccination, and the vaccine used. 

New Restrictions Within Switzerland 

Switzerland will reintroduce many restrictions to halt the spread of Omicron from December 6th. The government will make face masks mandatory in a wide range of situations. 

These places include public transport and indoor venues. Failure to wear a mask in these situations can result in a fine. The Swiss authorities are also enforcing a social distancing requirement for 1.5 meters from other people. 

Switzerland also requires proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, or a negative PCR test within 72 hours or 48 hours for a rapid antigen test to enter the following:

• Large-scale public events attended by over 300 people, bars, restaurants, clubs, and discos 
• Leisure, sporting, and cultural activities. These include zoos, casinos, fitness centers, indoor pools, and water parks 
• Indoor events such as cinemas, concerts, and private events outside the home, i.e. weddings
• Private indoor gatherings between friends and family with over 11 people

Travelers who don’t have the EU Digital COVID Certificate can apply for the Swiss COVID Certificate. You can apply online and applications take up to 5 working days to process. 

New Omicron Travel Restrictions 

Following the emergence of the Omicron variant, most nations worldwide have implemented more travel restrictions. Germany has banned unvaccinated people from participating in many activities. 

France has enforced mandatory testing on all arrivals from third nations, including the U.S, U.K, and Canada.

Portugal states all travelers will need to show evidence of a negative test result upon arrival regardless of vaccination status. The test can be an RT-PCR test within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours of boarding. 

It’s likely the uncertainty will continue throughout winter.

Read More

U.S. Issues 18 New Travel Advisories For December

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10 Countries To Visit That Do Not Require A Vaccine Passport

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