Most countries in Europe charge toll fees. This is known as a toll obligation. But what does that mean? Toll charges are levied for the use of certain roads, tunnels, and bridges. The funds collected through tolls are invested in the road network and enable you to enjoy a smooth journey. The main areas of investment include infrastructure, traffic management and safety, and environmental protection measures.
Tolls can be collected in various forms. These include the vignette obligation, the heavy vehicle charge, and special toll routes. A distance-based toll does not exist in Switzerland.
The vignette obligation involves toll fees that are not based on kilometers but are charged as a flat rate. Accordingly, you purchase a digital vignette before your journey. There are different vehicle classes subject to the vignette requirement. Generally, vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW (GVW: gross vehicle weight) require a vignette, while vehicles over 3.5 t GVW must pay a heavy vehicle charge. Please note that Switzerland currently only offers a 1-year vignette—no other validity periods are available.
Motor vehicles weighing over 3.5 t GVW are subject to the Flat-Rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) or Performance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA). These must be paid at customs upon entry or in advance online via the Via portal. The heavy vehicle charge is required not only for road use but also when the vehicle is stationary—for example, at campsites. More information about the Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA or LSVA) can be found in our guide.
Special toll routes often include tunnels or mountain passes. The special toll is charged for specific routes that are not covered by a vignette or a distance-based toll. This means the following for your trip: Even if you have purchased a vignette for motorway use or paid the heavy vehicle charge, there are certain route sections that require an additional fee. The special toll applies to anyone wishing to use these particular routes.
Additionally, most special toll routes are accessible via roads that require a vignette or are distance-based toll routes. Therefore, it is always advisable to purchase a vignette regardless of whether you plan to use a special toll route. You can find more detailed information about the various special toll routes in Switzerland in our guide.
With our free route planner, you can quickly and easily find out which toll products you need for your journey through Switzerland.
We wish you an enjoyable exploration of Switzerland and are happy to assist with any further questions regarding toll regulations.
By the way: In addition to the vignette obligation, the heavy vehicle charge, and the special toll routes, you may also be interested in car trains in Switzerland. These car loading services offer a wonderful way to bypass mountain passes. For further questions, feel free to contact us via email.
