The embassy premises in Ottawa © FDFA
COVID-19
Given the current circumstances, our operational capacity is limited. In order to maintain social distancing please limit your visits to the Embassy to appointments that have been approved.
As per Ontario's regulations, wearing a mask is mandatory in the Embassy.
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Traveling to Switzerland
Due to COVID-19, the Swiss government has enacted entry restrictions for travelers from certain countries and territories.
Can I enter Switzerland from Canada? No
Are there exceptions? Yes
- Swiss citizens (if you do not have a valid Swiss passport, please contact the Consulate General in Montréal or Vancouver)
- Permanent residents in Switzerland with proof of permanent residency.
- EU/EFTA citizens with a valid passport
- Canadians citizens and permanent residents in Canada for documented essential purposes only, subject to authorization.
For details please check the website for Federal Office Migration FAQ "Who is not affected by the ban no entry to Switzerland"
What do I have to do to get an exemption for essential travels?
Please email one of the Consulates General of Switzerland in Montreal (montreal.visa@eda.admin.ch) or in Vancouver (vancouver.visa@eda.admin.ch).
**UPDATE**
If I am entitled to enter Switzerland, do I need to go into quarantine?
Yes, until further notice
Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)
Do I have to present a negative PCR Covid-test before boarding the plane?
Yes, you have to present valid proof of a negative PCR test, taken not more than 72 hours (time of specimen collection) before boarding. Children under the age of 12 years are exempt from the test requirement.
Do I have to fill in a form?
Yes, all international travelers have to fill out and submit the following form prior to boarding a flight to Switzerland.
Form for incoming Travellers
Can I transit through Switzerland to a third country?
State Secretariat for Migration (SEM)
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Facial mask
For Mask requirements in Switzerland, please consult the following website:
Please note: further obligations may apply depending on the canton.
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Diplomatic Visa
Due to COVID-19 related protocols at the Embassy of Switzerland in Ottawa, please expect 10 business days to process and issue visas to diplomatic passport holders. In case of an evidenced emergency only, the Embassy will strive to issue the visa in an expedited fashion.
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Traveling to Canada
Switzerland's Travel Advisory currently advises against non-essential travel to Canada.
IMPORTANT: New regulations coming into effect regarding mandatory PCR test upon arrival in Canada and quarantine arrangements. Government of Canada introduces further restrictions on international travel
As of January 7, 2021, air travellers aged 5 years or older are required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result before boarding international flights to Canada. Read the news release for air travellers. The 14 days of self-isolation upon arrival in Canada is still mandatory even with a negative test.
If your are flying to Canada as your final destination, you must use the ArriveCAN app to submit your travel and contact information.
ArriveCAN for iPhone
ArriveCAN for Android
For information on Canadian measures regarding the conditions of entry into Canada please visit: Government of Canada
The practical aspects of the implementation of these measures fall within the competence of the Canadian authorities.
Important information for international students in Canada is available on the following website: Information for international students.
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Life certificate for the Swiss pension AHV/AVS
As of May 1st 2021, the Swiss Compensation Office (SCO) will require a life certificate legalized by a local authority. If it is not possible due to the health situation (e.g. difficulties in getting to the relevant authorities), life certificates may be attested by the insured themselves by signing the document (without the official stamp). In this case, we ask that a copy of a valid identity document (with photo) be attached to the certificate, as well as a witness confirmation (PDF, 146.8 kB, English).
The requested documents may be sent by postal or electronic mail to the Embassy of Switzerland or direcly to the SCO by email in PDF format.
Insured Foreign Nationals should have the life certificate legalized by a local authority before sending it to the Embassy, or, as stated above, sending it to the SCO.
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For information related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) kindly consult the information and directives of the local authorities and the recommendations of the World Health Organisation WHO.
In Switzerland, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) informs in regards to the Novel Coronavirus and publishes travel advice accordingly.
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The Travel Advice FDFA (in German, French and Italian) offers travelers basic information for travel preparation by informing on possible risks and certain precautions. They are to be considered as a complementary source of information.
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Travel Admin App
Swiss travelers abroad should register on the "Travel Admin App". Please make sure to download the application and to register your travel.
More information: Press release of the Federal Council (19.03.2020)
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For urgent requests, kindly contact the FDFA Helpline (Tel. +41 800 24-7-365 / +41 58 465 33 33) or contact your representation directly.
