Most travellers can bring personal medication into Switzerland for their own use, provided it is in its original packaging and supported by a prescription or a doctor's letter; some controlled medicines require extra documentation. Check the current rules with official Swiss sources before flying, and once you land, AirportsTransfers.ch can take you straight to your accommodation so medication stays with you all the way.
- Packaging: Keep medicines in original labelled packaging
- Documents: Prescription copy or doctor's letter in English
- Controlled medicines: May need specific certificates; check in advance
- Carry on: Keep all medication in hand luggage
- Where to check: Official Swiss authorities and your embassy
General principles
Switzerland, like most countries, allows travellers to bring medicines for their own personal use. The key words are personal and reasonable: the quantity should match the length of your stay, and the medicines should clearly be yours. Exact rules, quantities and exceptions are set by the Swiss authorities and can change, so treat this article as general guidance rather than legal advice.
The most reliable sources are official ones. Swissmedic, the Swiss agency for therapeutic products, publishes guidance for travellers, and the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country can answer specific questions. Your own doctor or pharmacist can also help prepare the right documents.
If you are only transiting through Geneva on the way to a French resort, remember that the route crosses the border into France, so check the rules for both countries.
Packaging and documents
Keep each medicine in its original packaging with the pharmacy label, showing your name, the drug name and the dose. Loose pills in an unmarked box invite questions. Carry a copy of the prescription, and for anything important or unusual, a short letter from your doctor in English explaining what the medicine is and why you need it.
Write down the generic name of each medicine as well as the brand name. Brand names differ between countries, and if you need a pharmacist or doctor during your stay, the generic name makes it much easier to find an equivalent. Keep a digital copy of every document on your phone in case the paper versions go astray.
- Original packaging with pharmacy label
- Copy of the prescription
- Doctor's letter in English for important medicines
- List of generic names and doses
- A few days' extra supply in case of delays
Controlled substances and special cases
Some medicines, such as certain strong painkillers, sleeping tablets, medication for attention disorders and other substances classed as narcotics or psychotropics, are subject to stricter controls. Travelling with them may require a specific certificate, and the arrangements can differ depending on whether you are coming from a Schengen country or from elsewhere.
If any of your medicines fall into this category, check well before departure. Leave enough time to obtain any certificate from your home authorities. Medical devices such as insulin pens, needles, inhalers or portable equipment should also be declared to airline security if required, and supported by a doctor's letter.
If you rely on a medicine every day, travel insurance that covers medical needs abroad and a plan for replacing lost medication are worth arranging before departure. Pharmacies in Geneva and in the main resorts can help with many needs, but some medicines may require a local prescription.
At the airport and on the road
Always carry medication in your hand luggage, never only in a checked suitcase. Bags can be delayed, and some medicines are sensitive to the cold of an aircraft hold. Follow the liquids rules at airport security, but tell the staff about any liquid medicines you need for the journey; they are generally permitted with suitable evidence.
Once in Geneva, keep the medication with you in the vehicle rather than in the boot, especially on longer trips such as to Zermatt via Täsch, about 231 km and 2 h 35, or St. Moritz, roughly 400 km and 5 hours. Medicines that must be kept cool can be carried in an insulated bag. If you need to take a dose at a particular time, mention it to the chauffeur so a short stop can be planned.
Booking a direct transfer
With AirportsTransfers.ch you book online, see the fixed price per vehicle before paying by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay, and are met in arrivals by a chauffeur with a name sign. Your flight is tracked and waiting is included if it lands late. Child seats are available on request and skis are declared at booking.
If you have specific health needs during the journey, let us know in advance by phone or WhatsApp on +41 78 346 56 77.
