According to bilateral treaties, the rules governing exchanges between EU Member States and Switzerland are the same as for intracommunity movements. Regulation (EU) 2016/429 sets the basic framework, while detailed additional requirements are laid down in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/686 (see below “Legal framework”). 

For fish eggs (roe) and fish semen (milt), the import conditions for “aquatic animals” apply, and for hatching eggs those for ”birds”. 

The protective measures in force on the day of import apply in all cases. 

The veterinary officer in the country of origin must send an electronic TRACES notification. The cantonal authority must record the establishment of destination in Switzerland in the TRACES electronic system before the first import takes place.
Depending on the particular category of live animals or products, the applicable certificate is the TRACES version of the appropriate model provided for in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/403 (Articles 8-11or 13 and Annex I). The original certificate must accompany the consignment in paper form – or also in electronic form as soon as this is technically implemented (see below “Legal framework”). 

Specific models are provided for genetic products from deer and camelids, dogs and cats, and also from terrestrial animal kept in “confined establishments”. 

For imports of germinal products from other animal species, the requirements are laid down individually.
Please submit a written application for this purpose to the FSVO (see under "Further information").

Please note that it is not possible to import all categories of animals and goods into Switzerland at all border crossing points. Please contact the customs authorities for any questions regarding customs regulations and procedures.