Zurich Airport (ZRH) — Transit Guide
Transit and entry requirements at Zurich Airport in Zurich, Switzerland
Quick Facts
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is a Schengen Area airport in Zurich, Switzerland. Transiting here may require ETIAS or a transit visa depending on your nationality.
Airport ZRH
City Zurich
Country Switzerland
Schengen Yes
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Airport Code ZRH
🏙️
City Zurich
🇪🇺
Country Switzerland
🌍
Schengen Yes
Transit at Zurich Airport
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is located in Zurich, Switzerland. As a Schengen Area airport, transiting here may require ETIAS or a Schengen transit visa, depending on your nationality.
If you're connecting between two flights that both stay within the Schengen Area, no additional entry is required. If arriving from outside the Schengen Area, you'll pass through border control.
Transit Requirements at Zurich Airport by Nationality
- EU/EEA citizens Transit freely with passport or national ID. No visa, ETIAS, or other authorization needed.
- Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, etc.) Can transit without a visa. ETIAS will be required from Q4 2026 (€20) — even for airside transit.
- Visa-required nationals May need a Schengen Airport Transit Visa (ATV) even for airside connections. Check with the embassy of Switzerland.
Transit FAQs — Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Do I need a visa to transit through Zurich Airport?
It depends on your nationality. EU citizens transit freely. Visa-exempt nationals will need ETIAS from Q4 2026. Some nationalities need a Schengen transit visa even for airside transit.
Is Zurich Airport a Schengen airport?
Yes. Zurich Airport is in Switzerland, a Schengen Area member. Arriving from outside the Schengen Area means passing through border control.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
If you have valid entry authorization (ETIAS, Schengen visa, or EU passport), you can leave the airport and visit Zurich during your layover.
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