Registering a vehicle in Switzerland is a structured but manageable process.
In general terms, it involves importing the vehicle (if it comes from abroad), completing customs and technical checks, submitting the required documents to the cantonal authority and paying the associated fees before receiving Swiss number plates.
How to import a car to Switzerland
If the vehicle is not already registered in Switzerland, the first step is importation.
Switzerland is not part of the EU, so customs formalities apply whether the car comes from an EU or non-EU country.
At the Swiss border, the vehicle must be declared to customs.
Import VAT is charged at 7.7% of the vehicle’s value (purchase price plus transport costs).
Customs duty is also payable on most passenger cars, typically around CHF 12 per 100 kg of vehicle weight, although electric vehicles are generally exempt from customs duty.
Once customs clearance is completed, you will receive a Form 13.20A, which is essential for registration.
This document proves that all import taxes and duties have been paid and that the vehicle is authorised to be registered in Switzerland.
In some cases, particularly for used vehicles or cars imported from outside Europe, a technical inspection or conformity check may be required before registration.
The Swiss car registration process
Vehicle registration in Switzerland is handled at cantonal level by the Strassenverkehrsamt (Road Traffic Office).
Although the exact procedure may vary slightly by canton, the overall process is similar nationwide.
First, the vehicle must pass the Motor Vehicle Inspection (MFK) if required.
New vehicles or cars with recognised EU type approval may be exempt, while used or modified vehicles usually need to undergo this technical inspection to confirm roadworthiness and compliance with Swiss regulations.
Next, you submit your application for registration to the cantonal road traffic office.
Once the documents are approved and the fees paid, you will be authorised to obtain Swiss number plates and the vehicle registration certificate.
Obtaining Swiss number plates
Swiss number plates are issued by the canton and are linked to the owner rather than the vehicle.
This means that if you already have Swiss plates, you can often transfer them to the newly registered car.
If you need new plates, you can obtain them directly from the cantonal road traffic office once registration is approved.
Depending on the canton, plates may be issued on the spot or collected later on the same day.
Temporary plates are also available if the vehicle needs to be driven before full registration is completed.
Documents you need
To register a vehicle in Switzerland, you will generally need the following documents:
- Form 13.20A (customs clearance certificate)
- Proof of ownership (purchase invoice or sales contract)
- Foreign registration certificate (for imported used vehicles)
- Certificate of Conformity (COC)
- Valid insurance certificate from a Swiss insurer
- Official identification (passport or Swiss residence permit)
- Proof of address in Switzerland
Additional documents may be required if the vehicle has been modified or does not meet standard approval requirements.
How much does vehicle registration cost in Switzerland?
The total cost of registering a vehicle in Switzerland depends on the vehicle type, its value and the canton.
As a general guide:
- Import VAT: 7.7% of the vehicle value
- Customs duty: approx. CHF 12 per 100 kg (often exempt for electric vehicles)
- MFK inspection: around CHF 60–100
- Registration and administration fees: typically CHF 40–80
- Number plates: usually CHF 20–50
In addition, you should budget for annual cantonal road tax, which varies significantly by canton and is often based on engine size, weight or COâ‚‚ emissions.
Overall, registering a vehicle in Switzerland is straightforward if you prepare the documents in advance and account for import taxes and cantonal fees.
FAQs
We answer the most common questions about registering vehicles in Switzerland.
How long do I have to register a car after importing it into Switzerland?
In most cases, an imported vehicle must be registered within 12 months of customs clearance.
However, if you intend to drive it regularly in Switzerland, registration is usually required much sooner, often within a few days or weeks, depending on the canton.
Can I drive a foreign-registered car in Switzerland?
Yes, but only temporarily. Residents of Switzerland are generally not allowed to use a foreign-registered vehicle on a permanent basis.
Once you become a Swiss resident or import the car permanently, Swiss registration is mandatory.
Do I need Swiss car insurance before registration?
Yes. A valid Swiss insurance certificate is required before the cantonal road traffic office can issue number plates.
The insurer usually sends confirmation electronically to the authorities.
Is the registration process the same in every canton?
The core process is the same nationwide, but fees, road tax calculations and appointment systems vary by canton.
Always check the specific requirements of your local Strassenverkehrsamt.
Can I register a car in Switzerland as a foreigner?
Yes, provided you have a valid Swiss address and residence permit, and the vehicle complies with Swiss regulations.
Helpful Resources:
Permanent importation into Switzerland - Federal Customs and Border Security Office FCS
