Published on 7 July 2026
Importing weapons and ammunition
A permit from fedpol is required for the permanent import of weapons, essential weapon components, accessories, ammunition and ammunition components into Switzerland. All items must be declared to customs.
For items subject to a weapon acquisition permit, the original of the permit issued by the relevant cantonal authority must be submitted. In accordance with Article 21 of the Weapons Ordinance, foreign nationals who do not hold a C settlement permit must obtain a weapon acquisition permit for every acquisition of a firearm or a essential component thereof.
For prohibited weapons and prohibited weapon accessories, the original of a cantonal exemption permit must also be submitted.
Prohibited ammunition:
Gesuch um Erteilung einer Ausnahmebewilligung
für den nichtgewerbsmässigen Erwerb, den nichtgewerbsmässigen Besitz sowie die nichtgewerbsmässige Verbringung in das schweizerische Staatsgebiet von verbotener Munition
PDF153.51 kB20 January 2023
Directive
on the issuing of exemption permits by the Central Weapons Office for the acquisition, possession, manufacture and bringing into Switzerland of prohibited ammunition
PDF263.35 kB30 June 2026
Import from a non-Schengen state
Hunters and target shooters from a non-Schengen state require a permit from fedpol to import firearms temporarily in connection with a hunting or sports event. A permit from the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) is required for the export of these weapons. (See the section on the export of weapons and ammunition)You must carry an invitation to the relevant event (e.g. a hunt or competition) with you; this serves as proof of the purpose of your journey but does not replace the required import permit.
Import from a Schengen state
Hunters and target shooters from a Schengen state do not require an import permit, provided they can produce an invitation to a relevant event and the firearm is entered on the European Firearms Pass.
Notice of the permanent import of weapons from Liechtenstein must be given to the relevant cantonal authority, in the same way as when moving to another canton.
As a foreign security officer, you will need an import permit from fedpol for the temporary import of firearms and ammunition for the purpose of your work, regardless of whether you are entering Switzerland from a Schengen country or another country. This permit is required for import and re-export.