The Swiss Covid Certificate: everything you need to know
Switzerland now requires a Covid certificate for many public places. Here are a few key points to know before visiting.
All those vaccinated abroad with a vaccine that has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) will be able to apply for a Swiss Covid certificate in principle as of September 20, 2021.
However, according to reporting from those concerned, the cantons are still hesitant to accept applicants from certain countries, including the United States. As a result, until October 24, tourists will not receive certificates from the cantons either, but they can use their vaccination certificates in Switzerland as certificates.
Which vaccines are approved by the EMA?
- Pfizer/Biontech
- Moderna
- Janssen (Johnson&Johnson)
- AstraZeneca
You are sufficiently protected if you have received two doses of the vaccine. Pfizer/Biontech, Moderna and AstraZeneca, whereas Johnson & Johnson/Janssen require only one dose for your protection.
Which vaccines are not accepted for a Swiss Covid certificate?
- Sputnik
- Sinopharm
- Sinovac
A Swiss COVID certificate can be issued if the vaccine used for your immunization was on the Emergency Use List of the World Health Organization (WHO) but was not authorized by EMA. As an example, this can apply to Swiss nationals from abroad who return to the country, to EU third-country nationals working in Switzerland, to employees of international organizations and accredited diplomatic staff, and to students and experts.
Are you required to have a certificate to enter Switzerland?
No. Switzerland allows the entry of Sinopharm or Sinovac vaccine recipients. The Swiss regulations for the COVID certificate are comparable with European regulations. TravelcheckExternal link is the federal government website where you can see who can enter Switzerland and from what countries.
Would a foreign certificate be converted to a Swiss Covid one?
Thus far, no. The Swiss recognize certificates from EU member states and European Free Trade Agreement members. However, as of September 2021, certificates from third countries, including the US, would no longer be accepted.
What is the process for obtaining Swiss Covid from abroad?
Swiss Covid certificates can be obtained from anywhere in the world before you travel to Switzerland. You can upload the required information quickly by uploading a photo, a scan, or a PDF.
Do you know where you can obtain your Swiss Covid certificate?
Swiss cantons issue Covid certificates to foreign travellers. The individual canton website addresses can be found here
For a given time, up until October 24, all foreign vaccination certificates, such as WHO certificates, will be eligible to access facilities or events with a Covid certificate requirement.
How do you obtain the certificate?
The application that can host your certificate can be downloaded from the Apple App StoreExternal link, Google Play StoreExternal link or Huawei App GalleryExternal link. After you download the App, you can upload your certificate by scanning the QR code sent to you as a PDF to download by email.
What is the timeframe for receiving the certificate?
Most turnaround times are only a few days; however, depending on the volume and clarification, the turnaround time can extend up to several weeks.
In order to obtain a Covid certificate, what do I need?
The cantonal websites provide more detailed information.
You will need proof of complete vaccination, i.e. your vaccination card, which includes the following information: Type of the Vaceen/ producer, number of doses received, date of last vaccination and a signature.
After recovering from Covid and receiving one vaccination dose, you need laboratory-analytical proof that your PCR test was positive and proof that you received a vaccine approved in Switzerland.
What is the validity of Swiss Covid certificates?
Vaccination certificates are valid for 365 days from the date the last dose of vaccination was received. After 180 days following the 11th day of being tested positive, certificates are valid for recovered people. Antigen tests certificates are valid for 48 hours, and PCR certificates are valid for 72 hours.
