Swiss citizens are entitled to a passport and an identity card. The current biometric passports contain a chip on which your fingerprints and an image of your face are stored electronically. All Swiss travel documents are produced in Switzerland.

You can apply online for your passport and identity card. Once your application is reviewed, you receive an invitation to record your biometric data at the competent Swiss representation. Be sure to check the expiry date on your current passport and identity card and leave enough time to order new ones.

Biometric Passport (model 2010)

As of March 1, 2010, Switzerland will only issue electronically readable Swiss passports (Passports 2010) with biometric data containing one digital facial photograph, a digital signature and two digital fingerprints. Swiss voters approved the change to biometric passports in a vote on May 17, 2009.

Please read the instructions in the document “how to apply” for detailed information concerning the passport application procedure.

Identity card (model 2003)

Due to the introduction of the passport 2010 the order procedure of the identity card changes as of March 1, 2010.

We would like to emphasise that there will not be any biometric data on the identity card until further notice.

Please read the instructions in the document “how to apply” for a Swiss identity card for detailed information concerning the identity card application.

Passport 2010 and Identity card (model 2003)

The Swiss identity documents can be ordered at a reduced price at the same time. Please follow the instructions in the document “how to apply …”.

Cancellation of Previous Swiss Passport or Identity Card

You must present your old Swiss passport and/or identity card at the time of application. However you can then keep it with you until the new passport and/or identity card will arrive at the responsible Swiss embassy or consulate. You will be informed of the arrival and will have to submit your old passport and/or identity card for cancellation when you pick up your new passport.

Registration

Before applying for a passport and/or identity card, registration with the responsible Swiss representation is mandatory.

Changes of civil status

All changes of civil status (marriage, divorce, bitrth of children) have to be updated before a Swiss identity document can be issued.

Travelling to the USA?

For current entry regulations to the US, Swiss citizens should check with the competent authorities. More information under "Links".