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)
- EU/EFTA and UK citizens with a valid passport
- Canadians and residents in Canada for documented essential purposes only, subject to authorization.
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).
If I am entitled to enter Switzerlad, do I need to go into quarantine?
No, until further notice
Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)
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.
For information on Canadian measures regarding the conditions of entry into Canada please visit: Government of Canada
As of November 21, 2020, 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
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
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Swiss Compensation Office (SCO) in Geneva is now accepting – and until the end of 2020 – the life certificate, filled out and signed by the insured Swiss abroad, together with a copy of a valid identity document (with photo). The documents can be sent to the Embassy of Switzerland in Ottawa, which will then forward them to the competent office in Geneva.
A scan of the life certificate (both sides), along with the copy of a valid identity document (with photo) can also be sent directly 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.
