How does registration after import work?

Q: How does registration after import work?

After customs clearance come technical recognition (via existing approval documents or an individual inspection) and registration at the cantonal road traffic office, which issues the registration document and licence plates.

Last verified: 2026-06-20

The process after import typically comprises three steps: (1) customs clearance at the BAZG with import duties and the assessment certificate (form 13.20 A); (2) technical recognition — for EU type-approved vehicles via the existing data / the electronic data sheet, otherwise via an individual vehicle inspection; (3) registration at the cantonal road traffic office.

The road traffic office examines the documents (proof of insurance, assessment certificate, technical data), carries out the vehicle inspection if necessary, and then issues the registration document and the licence plates.

Only after successful customs clearance AND technical recognition can the cantonal road traffic office admit the vehicle to traffic.

Sources

Importing vehicles into Switzerland definitively — BAZG – Federal Office for Customs and Border Security
Vehicle type approval — ASTRA – Federal Roads Office

What are customs clearance and form 13.20 A for on import?
How do you import a used car from the EU?
What applies to the vehicle when changing canton?

How does registration after import work?

Sources

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