Transit fee in Switzerland for travelers passing through
Transit fee in addition to the vignette requirement
If you like to use Switzerland as a transit country on the way to your destination, additional costs could be coming your way in the future. For the use of toll roads, it is planned that an additional fee will be charged alongside the vignette. Parliament has approved a so-called transit fee for foreign transit travelers, which is intended to apply in addition to the existing vignette requirement.
This fee affects all travelers who merely pass through Switzerland on the way to their holiday destination (for example, to Italy) and do not plan a longer stay in the country.
Why is the transit fee being charged?
The aim of the measure is to reduce the risk of traffic jams, particularly at the Gotthard Tunnel. There, heavy traffic volumes regularly cause significant congestion. Centre National Councillor Simon Stadler emphasizes that the situation at the Gotthard has worsened considerably over the past ten years, and that traffic congestion now occurs almost every weekend between spring and autumn.
Since around one third of passenger traffic crossing the Alps consists of pure transit traffic, the introduction of a transit fee is seen as a sensible solution.
Who does the transit fee apply to?
The transit fee applies to everyone who travels through Switzerland without a recognizable stay. As soon as you, for example, stay overnight in the country or make purchases there, you are no longer considered a transit traveler and are exempt from the fee. However, anyone who travels through Switzerland without a stopover is classified as a transit traveler and must pay the fee.
In concrete terms, this means: If you cross the country within a certain time window (expected to be around twelve hours), a payment automatically becomes due.
How much is the transit fee?
The planned fee amounts to around 21 Swiss francs, which currently corresponds to about 23 euros (as of: 30.03.2026). It is charged in addition to the regular vignette. It is therefore important to continue to observe the general toll regulations of Switzerland.
There are also discussions about making the fee amount flexible. It could vary depending on traffic density, time of day, or day of the week. On heavily frequented travel days, the fee would be correspondingly higher than during periods of low traffic. The recording of fee-liable vehicles is intended to be carried out automatically via cameras upon entry and exit.
From when will the transit fee apply?
A specific date for the introduction of the transit fee has not yet been determined. However, it is assumed that changes at the constitutional level may also be required for its implementation.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
Please observe the applicable toll regulations when traveling to Switzerland. Additional special toll fees may apply for the use of Alpine passes or tunnels. In addition, depending on the vehicle class, there is either a vignette requirement or an obligation to pay the heavy vehicle fee.
With us, you will find all the important information on tolls in Switzerland, so you can plan your trip with ease and peace of mind. If you have any questions, we are happy to help at any time via email.
