Switzerland: Authorities maintaining COVID-19 international entry restrictions, domestic social-distancing mandates as of December 4 /update 20

Switzerland maintaining coronavirus disease-related quarantine list for international arrivals Dec. 4; domestic restrictions in effect.

Event

As part of measures introduced to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), authorities in Switzerland are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 4. In most circumstances, only citizens and residents of EEA countries, as well as those of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Uruguay, and the UK, are permitted to enter the country. Authorities have also designated a list of countries from which arrivals must self-isolate for 10 days. As of Dec. 4, travelers arriving from Andorra, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Montenegro, French overseas territories, and the Austrian states of Salzburg and Upper Austria must quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. The list will be updated Dec. 14, and the following locations will be added to the list: Croatia, Georgia, Hungary, Jordan, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Serbia, Slovenia, and the US, as well as the Italian regions of Emilia Romagna, Friuli Venezia Giulia, and Venetia, and the Austrian regions of Karnten and Steiermark.

The quarantine requirement does not apply to essential individuals traveling for business, medical purposes, or to transit travelers who have spent fewer than 24 hours in a high-risk country or territory. Travelers will not be allowed to shorten their self-quarantine if they receive a negative COVID-19 test result during the 10-day period. Other permitted travelers may enter without restrictions.

In addition, the following domestic measures are currently in place:

Bars and restaurants are limited to table service only and must close at 2300; a maximum of four people may sit at the same table. Discos and nightclubs will be closed.
All public events, except for demonstrations, are limited to 50 people; sporting or cultural leisure activities are limited to 15 people.
Private gatherings are limited to 10 people; authorities recommend that people from a maximum of two households attend.
Facemasks must be worn in outdoor areas of facilities and businesses, as well as busy pedestrian streets, in addition to all enclosed public spaces, and on public transportation.
All universities switched to online teaching Nov. 2.

Most activities and businesses are operating, provided social distancing and hygiene requirements are implemented. Social distancing standards of 1.5 meters (5 feet) between members of different households are in effect.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medicines will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.