New rules for entering Switzerland: People vaccinated or sick must test negative for a COVID-19 antigen test!

From Monday, December 20, travelers vaccinated against COVID-19 and those who have recently recovered from the virus will have to report a negative fast antigen test in the last 24 hours before arriving in Switzerland.

The decision was made by the Federal Council at a meeting on Friday, December 17, during which it agreed to implement stricter measures throughout Switzerland to limit the spread of Coronavirus.

New rules for entering Switzerland

"After consulting the cantons, the Federal Council also adapted the test regime for entry into the country, applicable from Monday, December 20. In addition to PCR tests performed within the last 72 hours, rapid antigen tests performed within the last 24 hours will also be accepted. The requirement to have a second test four to seven days after entering the country will be removed for people who are vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19.", The Council announced in a press release.

The Board also decided to reimburse the costs of COVID-19 tests to obtain a COVID certificate. The tests, for which the costs will be covered, are salivary PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, while self-tests, individual PCR tests and antibody tests will not be covered. The decision on test costs will take effect today, December 18th.

At Friday's meeting, the council decided to strengthen local measures for unvaccinated and unrecovered people by replacing the 3G rule with a 2G rule. This means that in places such as restaurants, cinemas, theaters, stadiums, concerts, sports and leisure events indoors, etc. only those vaccinated and recovered from infection with the new coronavirus will have access. The obligation to wear masks in these places remains valid. The 3G rule will continue to apply to outdoor events with more than 300 people.