- Starting January 1, 2025, purchases above CHF150 made across the Swiss border will be subject to VAT when imported
- The Federal Council decided to lower the VAT-free shopping limit after pressure from parliament
- Travellers can import goods tax-free up to CHF150 per person per day, down from the current limit of CHF300
- Purchasing behavior may change with the lower tax-free limit, but it is uncertain whether people will buy less or more goods
- Majority of cantons, business representatives, and political parties welcomed the move
- Private individuals can use the QuickZoll customs clearance app to declare goods for import and pay duties
- Reduced rate for everyday goods can be cleared at customs or through written clearance using a registration box
- Independent customs clearance via app at the reduced rate is expected to be possible from 2026
Source: swissinfo.ch
Note that this post was (partially) written with the help of AI. It is always useful to review the original source material, and where needed to obtain (local) advice from a specialist.