From Thursday February 17, almost all pandemic restrictions in Switzerland will be abolished. The only rules to remain in place are the wearing of masks on pubic transport and health care facilities plus a five-day isolation period for those who test positive.

The federal government said on Wednesday February 16 that hospitals have not been overwhelmed despite a high number of new cases.

“Thanks to the high level of immunity among the population, it is unlikely that the healthcare system will be overburdened despite the continued high level of virus circulation. For the Federal Council, this means that the conditions are in place for a rapid normalisation of social and economic life.”

Importantly for anyone travelling to Switzerland is that coronavirus border restrictions will end.

“It will no longer be necessary to provide proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test or complete an entry form,” the government said. 

FILE PHOTO: Traffic jam at the Swiss border on March 17, 2020 Reuters