Export Animal Products to Switzerland

Last Modified: April 01, 2024

Switzerland is not a member state of the European Union (EU). However, Switzerland requires the same certificates as the European Union for most commodities. Prior to preparing to export, exporters should have their Swiss importers confirm with the pertinent Swiss authorities. For commodities where the importer verifies an EU certificate is required, please refer to the general information file for the European Union .

Language requirement for Certificates

Switzerland will accept English only certificates. They do not require English certificates to be bilingual.

Determining Which Certification Requirements Apply

Exporters should always have their importers confirm BEFORE shipment that the consignment will be allowed entry with only the documentation accompanying the consignment. If there is any doubt about European Union or Country requirements a consignment will fall, or when requirements are not listed, the U.S. exporter should have this country's importer email the pertinent border inspection post (BIP) through which the consignment will enter the importing country.  The email should include a description of the proposed import, including the animal-origin contents and the intended use of the material in the importing country. The BIP will respond to the importer in writing. The U.S. exporter should then obtain that response from the importer and provide it and a translation of it (including the original email question) to their local VS Field Operations Veterinary Export Trade Services.

Need Help Exporting Animal Products?

If you have any questions or concerns about the procedures and requirements for exporting animal products, or to obtain a zoosanitary certificate for an animal product, contact the APHIS Veterinary Services office covering the area from which the product will be exported, the area in which your office is located, or the area in which the product is manufactured.
 

Certificate Endorsement or Export Questions

For animal product export certificate endorsement or questions, select your State or Territory to email the appropriate office and include "Animal products: endorsement or question" plus your State or Territory's name in the subject line. Note: Offices may serve multiple States and Territories.

Facility Inspections or Questions

For animal product export facility inspection requests or questions, select your State or Territory to email the appropriate office and include "Facility Inspection" plus your State or Territory's name in the subject line. Note: Offices may serve multiple States and Territories.