Switzerland: Coronavirus disease-related restrictions on travel and domestic activity remain in effect as of Jan. 12 /update 23

Switzerland maintaining COVID-19-related international travel, domestic restrictions as of Jan. 12; severe disruptions likely.

Event

Tighter restrictions on international travel, as well as domestic business and other activities, will likely remain in force in Switzerland through at least late January as part of the nation's efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Under most circumstances, only citizens and residents of EEA countries, as well as those of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay, may enter Switzerland. However, as of Jan. 12 passengers entering from Andorra, Croatia, Denmark, Georgia, Ireland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands Panama, San Marino, Serbia, Slovenia, Sweden, South Africa, UK, US, Czech Republic, as well as the state of Saxony in Germany and the Veneto region in Italy, must self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival. 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.

More stringent entry restrictions remain in effect for travelers from the UK and South Africa as of Jan. 12 as part of Switzerland's response to a new strain of COVID-19 that was initially discovered in the southeast of England, UK. Travelers from both countries who are not Swiss citizens or permanent residents have been barred from entry into Switzerland indefinitely since Dec. 20. All travelers arriving from UK and South Africa must self-isolate upon arrival for 10 days.

The following domestic restrictions will remain in effect through at least Jan. 22:

Bars and restaurants must remain closed, with only delivery and carry-out services being permitted. Discos and nightclubs must stay closed.
Sports facilities must remain closed; outdoor sports in groups of up to five people are permitted.
Museums, cinemas, libraries, botanical gardens, zoos, and other cultural and leisure centers must remain closed.
Residents are urged to stay at home.
Nonessential shops may only operate 0600-1900 and must remain closed entirely on Sundays and public holidays.
Private gatherings are limited to 10 people; authorities recommend that such gatherings be limited to persons from no more than two households.
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 remain restricted to distance learning.

Cantons in which the epidemiological situation is less severe may relax certain restrictions.

Nevertheless, most other facilities and businesses are allowed to operate provided they adhere to social distancing and enhanced hygiene requirements. 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.