Anticipate Your Journey: Get acquainted with substantial travel modifications expected in Switzerland by 2025
Hopping Behind the Wheel in Switzerland Next Year
Get ready for a wave of changes in driving and traveling across Switzerland in 2025! Here's a rundown of what you need to know and expect.
New Driving Regulations
Starting January 1st, drivers faced with noise pollution fines related to vehicle engines will see a significant increase from 60 to 80 francs. In addition, drivers who create 'avoidable noises' such as backfiring could face a whopping fine of up to 10,000 francs. Stricter noise level regulations for vehicle registration will also be imposed.
All motorcycles must comply with the Euro 5+ exhaust fuel regulations introduced in 2020 before they can be registered for the first time. [1]
Automated Driving and Parking
From March 1st, drivers of vehicles equipped with an autopilot system, approved by their canton, will be able to use this system. While drivers still need to remain ready to take over the steering of the vehicle at any time, they will no longer be required to constantly monitor traffic and the vehicle.
Parking without the presence of a driver will become possible in designated car parks and parking spaces. [2]
Public Transport
The Swiss National Railway Company (SBB) has introduced a new timetable with some key improvements. In the French-speaking part of the country, Renens will become a major rail traffic hub, while in German-speaking regions, the half-hourly schedule for mainline traffic will be improved. [3]
International Rail and Air Travel
International trains will see additional connections and direct routes, while airlines have added new destinations to their summer 2025 timetable. [3]
Border Controls and Visas
Two major changes to EU border controls, the Entry & Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), are set for 2025. These changes will affect Swiss citizens and residents, as well as tourists and business travelers. [4]
The UK will also fully implement its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) visa waiver in 2025, requiring a £10 digital authorization for most non-UK nationals entering the country, including Swiss citizens. [4]
Additional Regulations
In 2025, Switzerland will transition to the European Electronic Toll Service (EETS) for toll collection, while stricter regulations will be imposed on transport companies. [5]
Switzerland is working towards aligning its transport rules with EU standards while maintaining key Swiss regulations, such as the 40-ton weight limit for trucks and the prohibition of cabotage by vehicles registered abroad. [5] Some studies have shown that lower speed limits can improve traffic efficiency rather than increase congestion, while bans on driving trucks at night, on Sundays, and expansions through the Alps remain in place. [5]
[1] http://www.std.ch/nv.lausanne_morges/fr/news/studie-pro-stricte-allgemeinen-verkehrsregeln-5b09cd0c-7e10-46e5-83fd-22d63a9c3f0b[2] https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/autonomous-cars-to-start-driving-on-swiss-roadways-next-year/45413006[3] https://www.sbb.ch/en/home[4] https://www.securitasdirect.co.uk/content/3461/ees-and-etias-what-are-the-big-changes-for-travel-in-europe[5] https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/new-transport-rules-in-2025-learn-more-about-swiss-driving-laws-and-improvements-to-public-/45560428
- In the realm of finance, the fines associated with noise pollution and avoidable noises in vehicles will significantly increase next year, as stricter regulations aim to curb such activities.
- The lifestyle and travel sectors will undergo a transformative phase in Switzerland with the introduction of autonomous vehicles and parking, the expansion of international rail and air travel routes, and the implementation of new border control systems like EES and ETIAS.
