Switzerland Passport – 2025 Guide
The Swiss passport is one of the most powerful travel documents in the world, granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries. Issued by the Swiss Confederation, it features advanced biometric security and a distinct design rooted in Swiss identity.
Key Features of the Swiss Passport
- Biometric e-passport (since 2010)
- Includes:
- Biometric chip (photo + fingerprints)
- Name, date of birth, nationality
- Personal ID number
- Place of origin (Heimatort)
- Machine-readable zone (MRZ)
- Design: Red cover with white cross and multilingual title
- Trilingual: German, French, Italian (plus Romansh inside)
- Pages contain artistic elements showcasing Swiss culture, landscapes, and inventions
Who Can Apply for a Swiss Passport?
✅ Swiss citizens living in Switzerland
✅ Swiss citizens abroad via embassy or consulate
✅ Children (a separate passport is required; no inclusion on parent’s document)
Dual citizens may hold a Swiss passport alongside their foreign passport(s).
How to Apply – In Switzerland
- Book an appointment at your cantonal passport office (via www.schweizerpass.ch)
- Attend in person for biometric data collection
- Present ID (Swiss ID card or previous passport)
- Pay the fee and wait for delivery (~10 business days)
How to Apply – From Abroad
Swiss citizens living overseas can apply through their local Swiss embassy or consulate:
- Biometric data is captured at the consulate
- Passport is produced in Switzerland and sent via mail
- Processing time: 2–4 weeks depending on location
Required Documents
- Swiss ID card or previous passport
- Proof of citizenship (if first-time applicant)
- For children: Parent’s ID and proof of custody (if applicable)
Switzerland Passport Fees (2025)
Document Type | Adult (CHF) | Child (CHF) | Validity |
---|---|---|---|
Passport only | ~140 | ~60 | 10 years (5 for children) |
ID card only | ~70 | ~35 | 10 years (5 for children) |
Passport + ID | ~148 | ~68 | Same |
Additional fees may apply for urgent service, shipping abroad, or passport lost replacement.
Swiss Passport Validity
Age Group | Validity |
---|---|
Adults | 10 years |
Under 18 | 5 years |
Swiss Passport Power – Visa-Free Countries
As of 2025, Swiss citizens can travel visa-free or with eTA/visa-on-arrival to over 190 countries, including:
✅ EU/EEA & Schengen Area
✅ United Kingdom
✅ USA (via ESTA)
✅ Canada (via eTA)
✅ Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Brazil, and more
Always check destination-specific entry rules before traveling.
Emergency Passport (Provisorischer Pass)
Available for urgent travel needs (e.g. lost passport before flight):
- Issued same day at passport office or embassy
- Valid for short-term use
- Typically not accepted for US or visa-sensitive destinations
Lost or Stolen Passport
- Report to local Swiss police (or local authority abroad)
- Notify Swiss passport office or embassy
- Apply for a replacement
- Replacement fees apply (~140–160 CHF)
Swiss Passport vs Swiss ID Card
Feature | Swiss Passport | Swiss ID Card |
---|---|---|
Global travel | ✅ Yes | ❌ Europe only |
Biometric chip | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Visa applications | ✅ Preferred | ❌ Limited use |
Valid for minors | ✅ Separate passport | ✅ Separate card |
Price | Higher (~140 CHF) | Lower (~70 CHF) |
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