General import permits (GIPs)
On this page, importers can find information about general import permits (GIPs) for agricultural products.
Who can apply for a GIP? Where can I apply for a GIP? For which products can or must I apply for a GIP? How long is a GIP valid and what does it cost?
You will also receive information on import permits for foodstuffs that are not issued by the Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG), for example for sugar, edible oils and fats, protein sources, rice or coffee.
What is a GIP?
A GIP (general import permit) for agricultural products is a unique identification number used by the authorities and their business partners (retailers, industry, logistics centres).
A GIP generally does not confer the right to import agricultural products at the lower tariff rate.
Private individuals do not need a GIP when travelling with up to 20kg. However, quantities over 20kg are considered commercial imports and therefore require a GIP.
Who needs a GIP for import?
Private travel:
No GIP is required for imports in the context of private travel, as long as the goods are for personal use and not intended for resale.
Private mail order, courier shipments or online purchases:
In these cases, private individuals are considered importers. If GIP-restricted products over 20kg are being imported, they must provide the GIP number in the customs declaration when clearing customs.
Commercial goods
Commercial goods over 20kg require a GIP for import.
Goods in passenger traffic are items that a person carries across the customs border while travelling, provided they are not intended for commercial purposes. Further information can be found in the provisions of the Customs Act (only the original German, French and Italian versions of the legal texts – laws, ordinances, etc. – are legally binding. English translations, where available, are provided for reference only and are not legally binding) or under Importing of foods by private travellers.
Who can apply for a GIP?
A GIP may be issued to natural persons, legal entities and groups of persons who have their residence or registered office within the Swiss customs territory.
Where can I apply for a GIP?
You can apply for a GIP via eKontingente. (eKontingente is only available in GER/FRE/ITA)
For which products do I need a GIP?
A GIP is required to import certain agricultural products. It is important to check the requirements in advance and to know the correct customs tariff number. Using the tariff number, you can look up any permit requirements, applicable customs tariffs and other charges.
You can find the relevant tariff number in the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security’s online customs tariff system:
Electronic customs tariff.
GIP for wine:
If the wine is intended for personal use, a GIP cannot be issued. If you are planning to import wine for personal use, please contact the relevant FOCBS customs office.
If the wine is intended for commercial purposes, you must first register with Swiss Wine Trade Inspection. Swiss Wine Trade Inspection. (The Swiss Wine Trade Inspection website is only available in GER/FRE/ITA). Once registered, you may apply for a GIP for wine from the Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG).
How long is a GIP valid and what does it cost?
The GIP is free of charge and valid indefinitely.
GIP for plant protection products
You cannot apply for a GIP for plant protection products in eKontingente. Further information can be found on the page on other products that require a GIP (This page is only available in GER/FRE/ITA).
GIP of Réservesuisse
For the import of:
- Sugar
- Rice for human consumption
- Edible oils and fats (e.g. olive oil, rapeseed oil, peanut oil, margarine)
- Coffee
- Cereals for human consumption
- Energy and protein sources for feed
You need a GIP from Réservesuisse. You can find all the information you need at the following link: Réservesuisse.
Further information
The FOAG provides a reduced English-language version of its website that does not include all further information such as documents, legislation or links. These can be found on the pages in the three official languages (German, French and Italian).
Index
Related topics
Imports
The import of agricultural products requires compliance with any customs regulations and, in some cases, permits. The licensing authority and possible tariff-free quotas for imports can be determined using the customs tariff number.