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New biometric card is coming

Thursday, 27 August 2026 06:35

Switzerland is rolling out its first biometric identity card, with applications opening from 2 October

Like the biometric passport, the new card carries a chip with a facial image and two fingerprints — a step the Federal Council says will strengthen protection against fraud.

The change matters for anyone crossing into the EU: Brussels has issued only biometric ID cards since 2021, and Swiss non-biometric cards will remain valid for EU travel only until they expire.

Fees stay unchanged, and citizens can still choose the non-biometric version if they only travel inside Switzerland.

Applications will go through cantonal ID offices or Swiss representations abroad.

 

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