United States Visa RequirementsFor Switzerland passport holders
Swiss passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Switzerland passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Switzerland to United States: What You Need to Know
Switzerland has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991, underpinned by close economic, diplomatic, and institutional ties. Switzerland hosts many international organizations (UN, WTO, ICRC) where US diplomats work, and Swiss-US trade and investment links are among the strongest globally. A Swiss-American community of several hundred thousand people lives across the US. Zurich Airport (ZRH) is one of Europe's premier transatlantic hubs, with SWISS International Air Lines offering direct flights to multiple US cities. Switzerland also allows dual nationality, and citizens with a non-VWP second passport should use their Swiss passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
SWISS International Air Lines flies nonstop from Zurich (ZRH) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), San Francisco (SFO), and Boston (BOS). United also serves ZRH. From Geneva (GVA), Swiss and Air France offer connections to US gateways via Zurich or Paris.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is an expected social obligation in the US and different from Switzerland where service is usually included: tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel housekeeping. The Swiss Franc (CHF) is not accepted in the US; exchange at Zurich or Geneva airports or use ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of your return ticket and accommodation. US customs may ask about your purpose of visit and financial means; be prepared to answer briefly and honestly. ESTA permits business meetings but not paid work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Swiss citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Switzerland has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991. Swiss passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must have an approved ESTA before boarding.
How do Swiss citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What nonstop flights are available from Switzerland to the United States?
SWISS International Air Lines flies nonstop from Zurich (ZRH) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), San Francisco (SFO), and Boston (BOS). United also operates ZRH routes.
How long can Swiss citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can Swiss citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final admission decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a Swiss citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying leads to deportation, VWP ineligibility, and serious difficulties with future US visas.
Switzerland allows multiple nationalities. Which passport should I use for ESTA?
Use your Swiss passport for ESTA. If you also hold a non-VWP nationality, you must still use your Swiss passport to benefit from VWP access.