What Is the Heavy Vehicle Charge?

Foreign motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes are subject to the Heavy Vehicle Charge; in this case, the vignette requirement does not apply. The heavy vehicle charge is divided into two types: the Lump-Sum Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) and the Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA). Both forms are therefore subject to toll obligations.

Why Are Heavy Vehicle Charges Levied?

The collection of heavy vehicle charges (PSVA and LSVA) serves to finance the maintenance of the road network. In particular, the LSVA enables the coverage of uncovered infrastructure costs as well as external traffic-related costs, such as environmental damage.

Lump-Sum Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA)

Who Is Required to Pay the PSVA?

The Lump-Sum Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) applies to the entire road network of Switzerland and not exclusively to motorways. It must therefore also be paid when only secondary or rural roads are used. The PSVA represents a fixed amount and is independent of the distance actually driven. It applies in particular to the following types of vehicles:

• Heavy passenger vehicles
• Heavy motor caravans (motorhomes/campers) and caravans
• Vehicles used for passenger transport
• Tractors and motorised carts
• Motor vehicles used by fairground operators and circuses
• Other motor vehicles for goods transport with a maximum speed of 45 km/h

If a trailer is used that is subject to the heavy vehicle charge (weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes), while the towing vehicle itself is not subject to the charge (e.g. a passenger car under 3.5 tonnes), the trailer load becomes chargeable. In this case, the PSVA applies exclusively to the trailer load. Certain vehicles are exempt from the PSVA, including scheduled public transport buses, provided they are used solely for approved line services.

Payment of the Lump-Sum Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA)

The PSVA must be paid online via the Via Portal of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) prior to entry. The Via Portal enables payment of the PSVA for foreign vehicles without Swiss registration. Registration is not mandatory, as the payment receipt is sent by email. However, voluntary registration may be beneficial, as paid tickets are stored centrally and can be accessed at any time. Payment is made by credit card.

Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA)

Who Is Required to Pay the LSVA?

The Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA) is calculated based on the vehicle’s total weight, emission class, and the kilometres driven within Switzerland, and also applies in the Principality of Liechtenstein. For recording purposes, a recording device (EETS or NETS) is required. The LSVA must be paid by all motor vehicles and trailers used for goods transport that meet the following criteria:

• Permissible gross vehicle weight of more than 3.5 tonnes
• Use for goods transport
• Registration domestically or abroad and use of the public road network

Certain vehicles are exempt from the LSVA. These include, among others:

• Vehicles used for officially authorised passenger transport, such as buses
• Agricultural vehicles with green licence plates
• Construction machinery and work vehicles, including trailers and semi-trailers
• Ambulance vehicles

Payment of the Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA)

The LSVA is automatically recorded using a recording device. The use of the EETS service provider is recommended, as it will remain available beyond 2025 and is part of the new LSVA III system. Alternatively, a NETS recording device may also be used.

European Electronic Toll Service (EETS)

The European Electronic Toll Service (EETS) simplifies toll payment for the use of toll roads within the European Union. Vehicle owners enter into a contract with an EETS provider, receive an onboard unit, and receive consolidated billing for the LSVA. Foreign transport operators must conclude a contract with an EETS provider approved by the FOCBS. These include, among others:

• Telepass S.p.A.
• Toll4Europe GmbH
• Axxés SAS

National Electronic Toll Service (NETS)

The National Electronic Toll Service (NETS) enables LSVA data recording exclusively within Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. Unlike EETS, NETS cannot be combined with toll systems in other countries. On behalf of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS), NETS is provided free of charge by NATRAS AG. From 1 June 2025, the service will also be available to owners of foreign-registered vehicles. Further information is available on the official website of the Swiss Confederation.

New LSVA Recording System from the End of 2025

The existing LSVA II recording system will be replaced by the new LSVA III system by the end of 2025. This system is based on established standard solutions that will continue to be offered by private service providers. Vehicle owners will continue to be able to use the following services:

• NETS (National Electronic Toll Service)
• EETS (European Electronic Toll Service)

The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Trip

We wish you a pleasant journey to the Czech Republic and lots of enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country’s impressive landscapes. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your trip optimally and display the relevant toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to assist you. You can contact us at any time by email.