Transit of animals and animal products originating in the EU

The transit through Switzerland of animals and animal products from the EU is not subject to controls by the border veterinary service. Conditions apply to the transport of animals. 

Transit through Switzerland originating in the EU is defined as transport that originates in and is destined for a Member State of the EU. Border control points in the EU do not count as the point of origin.

Unless otherwise stated, no legally specified animal health conditions have to be met. The requirements are the same as those that apply to the import and export of the respective animal or goods category between EU Member States and Switzerland. The actual points of origin and destination must be stated in the (where relevant, official) documents.

In addition, the transit provisions of the customs authority must be observed (see "More information").

Animal transport and transit bans

Cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses intended for slaughter, and poultry intended for slaughter may only be transited through Switzerland by rail or air. Transit by road is forbidden for animal welfare reasons.

Animal transport is also subject to strict regulations. In addition to the regulations set out in Swiss legislation (internal link > Animals > Transport and trade > Transport), cross-border transport is also governed by the content and formal requirements of EU Regulation 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport (see "More information").

More Information

Last modification 21.06.2016

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