When moving to Switzerland, you should also move your tax residence here. Doing so allows you to bring your personal items—including cars and pets—into the country duty-free. The main rule is that you must have owned these items for at least six months and plan to keep them after you arrive; they cannot be sold immediately. If you are moving as a student, you can bring your belongings without changing your tax status

Import procedure to Switzerland

1) Submit this form at customs (2 copies)
– form 18.44: household effects for import to Switzerland.pdf

2) As confirmation of the transfer of domicile to Switzerland, it is enough to submit copies of:
– lease agreement / proof of purchase of real estate
– work permit
– employment contract
– documents of a similar nature proving your relationship to Switzerland
– ID

3) Iventory
-Please provide a detailed inventory of all imported personal items on a separate attachment. In certain instances, you may be required to specify the volume and weight of the goods; providing a reasonable estimate is typically sufficient. Please note that any animals must be declared within this list. Comprehensive details regarding the importation of pets can be found here: FSVO.
The import of plants other than endangered and protected species is not regulated.
list of imports to Switzerland pdf template
list of imports to Switzerland excel template
list of imports to Switzerland word template

4) Time limit 
Planning Your Move Switzerland gives you two years to bring in your personal belongings tax-free after moving. You don’t have to move everything at once—multiple shipments are allowed within this timeframe. If you need to send items up to six months early, you can claim a refund on any import duties once your residency is finalized.

5) Importing commercial goods 
Food, Alcohol, and Tobacco Be aware that Swiss Customs has strict caps on items like meat, butter, and spirits. Check the latest limits here Goods import limit for Switzerland.pdfto avoid unexpected fees at the border.

6) At the border 
This procedure should be carried out at the crossing during their opening hours. (In our experience, this can usually be solved outside of office hours as well, but you cannot count on it.)
For more information check their FAQ.

These 3 customs offices allow sending clearance papers in advance. Simply send your files via a courier at least 2 working days in advance and then arrive during office hours (either personally or represented by an appointed person). Stabio-Confine , Dogana di Ponte Tresa  , Dogana- Chaiasso  

7) Residence or entrance formalities
Information about required documents can be found here:
Residence permit
Travel documents

8) Exception

People moving to a second home in Switzerland are also exempt from paying custom duties on their personal belongings. However, this does not apply to the means of transport and animals.
Last update 21/1/2026