What applies to an import from a non-EU country?

Q: What applies to an import from a non-EU country?

For vehicles from non-EU countries the same import duties apply (automobile tax 4%, VAT 8.1%), but additionally the customs duty, since no EU origin preference applies. Without a recognised approval, an individual vehicle inspection is required.

Last verified: 2026-06-20

Vehicles from third countries (non-EU) are cleared through customs the same way as EU vehicles — with automobile tax (4%) and VAT (8.1%). Unlike with EU origin, however, the customs duty is not waived: without preferential proof of origin, the customs duty is levied by weight.

Since third-country vehicles usually have no EU type approval, an individual vehicle inspection is generally required; the vehicle must meet the Swiss technical requirements (including lighting, exhaust). Registration only takes place after customs clearance (form 13.20 A) and the technical inspection.

For third-country vehicles, the technical adaptation cost (e.g. lighting, exhaust proof) is often a larger cost factor than the import duties themselves.

Sources

Importing vehicles into Switzerland definitively — BAZG – Federal Office for Customs and Border Security
VTS (SR 741.41), Art. 30 / 30a – Individual vehicle inspection — Fedlex – Swiss Federal Law

What applies to an import from a non-EU country?

Sources

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