For foreign motor vehicles with a weight of over 3.5 t GVW (GVW = gross vehicle weight), the Heavy Vehicle Fee applies, and the vignette requirement does not. The Heavy Vehicle Fee is divided into two forms: the Flat-Rate Heavy Vehicle Fee (PSVA) and the Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Fee (LSVA). Both types are considered tolls.
The collection of Heavy Vehicle Fees (PSVA and LSVA) helps fund the maintenance of the road network. In particular, the LSVA helps cover infrastructure costs and external costs caused by traffic, such as environmental damage.
The Flat-Rate Heavy Vehicle Fee (PSVA) applies to the entire road network (not just highways) in Switzerland, which means it must always be paid—even if you only use rural roads. The flat-rate heavy vehicle fee applies to the following vehicle types and is a fixed amount, unlike the LSVA, where distance traveled matters:
If a trailer subject to the Heavy Vehicle Fee (over 3.5 t) is towed by a vehicle that is not subject to the fee (such as a passenger car under 3.5 t), then the trailer becomes liable for the fee. The PSVA only applies to the trailer load in such cases. Exempt from the PSVA are, among others, scheduled buses used solely for their approved routes.
The Flat-Rate Heavy Vehicle Fee (PSVA) must be paid online before departure via the Via Portal of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG). This portal allows foreign vehicles to settle the PSVA. No registration is required to use the portal, as the payment receipt is sent via email. However, registration provides the advantage of centralized ticket storage and easier access. Payments can be made by credit card.
The Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Fee (LSVA) is calculated based on the total weight, emission category, and kilometers driven in Switzerland or the Principality of Liechtenstein. A recording device (from EETS or NETS) must be installed. The LSVA applies to all motor vehicles and trailers used for freight transport that:
However, some vehicles are exempt from the LSVA, including:
The LSVA is recorded by an onboard unit. The use of EETS providers is recommended, as they will continue operating after 2025 and are part of the new LSVA III system. Alternatively, a device from NETS may also be used.
European Electronic Toll Service (EETS)
The EETS provider simplifies toll payments across European toll networks in EU member states. Vehicle owners sign a contract with an EETS provider, receive an onboard unit, and are billed for the LSVA. Foreign transporters must sign a contract with a BAZG-authorized EETS provider. These include:
National Electronic Toll Service (NETS)
NETS handles data collection in Switzerland for LSVA purposes. While EETS is usable across Europe, NETS is limited to the LSVA area (Switzerland and Liechtenstein) and is not compatible with other toll systems. NETS is provided free of charge on behalf of BAZG by NATRAS AG. As of June 1, 2025, the service will also be available to foreign-registered vehicle owners. More information on acquiring NETS is available on the official Swiss government website.
The current LSVA II system will be replaced by LSVA III by the end of 2025. The new system builds on existing standard services offered by private providers (EETS and NETS). The following providers will continue to be available to vehicle owners:
We wish you a great trip to Switzerland and are happy to help with any questions regarding Switzerland and the relevant toll regulations. Feel free to contact us at: info@digitale-vignette-schweiz.de
By the way: If your vehicle weighs less than 3.5 t GVW (GVW = gross vehicle weight including passengers), it is not subject to the Heavy Vehicle Fee but rather the vignette requirement. You can find more info on the vignette requirement and the related vehicle classes on our website. Also note that in Switzerland, in addition to the Heavy Vehicle Fee, vehicle loading onto trains (Autozüge) plays an important role. You can read more about what exactly vehicle loading means on our site.
