Is it safe to go to Switzerland now?

Switzerland - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions Exercise normal precautions in Switzerland. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Switzerland.



Switzerland remains one of the safest countries in the world in 2026, holding a "Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions" rating from the U.S. State Department. Violent crime is extremely rare. The primary "safety" concerns in 2026 are actually related to alpine environments and transit delays. If you are hiking or skiing, the Swiss authorities warn of "sudden weather shifts" and avalanche risks, which are more dangerous than any urban threat. In 2026, travelers should also be aware of the Entry/Exit System (EES) biometrics now required at Swiss borders, which can cause significant wait times at Zurich and Geneva airports during peak ski season. While pickpocketing does occur in crowded areas like Lucerne or during the Geneva Motor Show, the overall risk is minimal. From a health perspective, Switzerland’s medical system is world-class, though 2026 travel advisories remind visitors that medical care is not free and requires comprehensive insurance or upfront payment.

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Lugano remains the safest city in Switzerland and has the lowest number of crimes recorded. In Ticino's main city, 24.7 crimes were recorded per 1,000 inhabitants in 2021 (+1.3 percent compared to 2020) versus 36.3 in St. Gallen and 36.8 in Winterthur.

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In Switzerland, the guest is not obliged to tip. In many restaurants, however, it is customary to pay a tip. This amounts to approximately 10 percent or it is rounded up to a round amount.

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Switzerland is one of the world's wealthiest countries, with a GDP per capita that outstrips that of other major economies, like the U.S., Japan and Germany. It is also home to some of the richest citizens in the world, with a mean wealth of $696,604 per adult — and a steep cost-of-living to match.

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The residents of Switzerland are paid very high wages compared to other countries, even bordering countries like France or Germany. This is somewhat as a result of the high quality of living. But due to the high wages, Swiss people have more money to spend, which naturally leads to higher prices.

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Schwyz home to highest concentration of millionaires The study noted that beyond central Switzerland, the majority of affluent communities can be found along the Gold Coast in Canton Zurich, areas of Canton Schwyz within easy reach of Zurich, and the banks of Lake Geneva.

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