On February 17, 2022, the Swiss Federal Council (government) terminated almost all measures previously implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19, including mask wearing in most public places, restaurants, and workplaces. The only measures that will remain in place are the requirement for persons 12 years and older to wear a mask on public transportation and in healthcare institutions and the requirement to isolate for five days after a positive COVID test. (COVID-19 Special Situation Ordinance arts. 3, 4, 7.) Residents of retirement or nursing homes are generally exempt from the mask requirement. (Art. 4, para. 2.) The remaining measures are to be repealed on March 31, 2022, or possibly earlier, depending on the epidemiological situation. (Art. 12, para. 2.)
In addition, restrictions for most travelers to Switzerland will also be lifted, meaning they will no longer be required to provide proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test, unless they travel from a country or region that has a “virus variant of concern.” Persons travelling from such areas are subject to testing and quarantine requirements, and their contact data will be recorded. (COVID-19 Ordinance on International Travel art. 1, para. 2, art. 2.)
Switzerland will still issue COVID-19 vaccination and recovery certificates that are recognized by the European Union.
The COVID-19 measures were last extended on January 19, 2022, and included, among other measures, the rule that certain indoor settings could be entered only by people who could prove that they were either vaccinated or had recovered from COVID-19; restrictions on private indoor and outdoor gatherings; and a requirement to work from home.
COVID-19 Vaccination and Infection Numbers in Switzerland and Liechtenstein
As of February 17, 2022, 70.06% of the eligible population had been vaccinated at least once, 68.72% had been fully vaccinated, and 41.09% had received a booster shot. As of February 17, 2022, there were 298,305 active COVID-19 cases (within the last 14 days), and 12,611 individuals had died over the entire period of the pandemic.