One of the Safest Countries: Switzerland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is rare, infrastructure is excellent, and emergency services are highly professional. Most expats report feeling completely safe.
Crime Statistics
Switzerland has exceptionally low crime rates compared to most countries:
| Metric |
Switzerland |
United States |
| Homicide rate (per 100,000) |
0.5 |
6.3 |
| Robbery rate (per 100,000) |
22 |
73 |
| Burglary rate (per 100,000) |
350 |
314 |
| Global Peace Index Rank |
11th |
131st |
Note: Burglary rates are somewhat similar due to Switzerland's wealth and cross-border crime from neighboring regions.
Common Crime Concerns
Pickpocketing
The main crime concern for visitors, particularly in:
- Tourist areas (Zurich HB, Geneva Old Town)
- Major train stations
- Airports
- Crowded events and festivals
Standard precautions (secure bags, front pockets, awareness) are sufficient.
Burglary
Break-ins do occur, particularly in border regions with organized gangs from neighboring countries. Standard security measures recommended:
- Quality locks on doors and windows
- Alarm systems (common in Swiss homes)
- Avoid displaying valuables
- Notify neighbors when traveling
Fraud and Scams
- Phone scams (fake Microsoft support, IRS equivalents)
- Online fraud (similar to worldwide patterns)
- Rare street scams in tourist areas
Natural Hazards
Avalanches
Significant risk in mountain regions during winter:
- Where: Alpine areas, ski resorts, mountain passes
- When: December through April primarily
- Risk areas: Off-piste skiing, backcountry touring
- Resources: SLF (Swiss Snow and Avalanche Research) provides daily forecasts
Avalanche Safety
- Check avalanche bulletins before mountain activities
- Carry transceiver, probe, and shovel for backcountry
- Take avalanche safety courses if skiing off-piste
- Respect closure signs and warnings
Severe Weather
- Föhn winds: Warm, dry winds causing rapid temperature changes and headaches
- Thunderstorms: Frequent in summer, can be severe in mountains
- Flooding: Occasional flash floods in valleys, lake flooding in extreme events
- Heavy snow: Can disrupt transport in winter
Earthquakes
Switzerland has moderate seismic activity, particularly around Basel and Valais. Major earthquakes are rare but possible. Buildings are constructed to modern standards.
Mountain Safety: The Alps claim lives every year. Never underestimate mountain conditions—weather changes rapidly, and terrain can be treacherous. Always inform someone of your plans and carry appropriate equipment.
Safety by Region
Major Cities
- Zurich: Very safe overall. Some drug activity around Langstrasse district. Train station area has pickpockets.
- Geneva: Safe but higher crime than Swiss average due to international population. Pâquis area can be rough at night.
- Basel: Very safe. Minor issues near German/French borders.
- Bern: Extremely safe capital city.
- Lausanne: Safe, some petty crime in train station area.
Rural Areas
Generally extremely safe. Main concerns are nature-related (weather, animals, terrain) rather than crime.
US Embassy and Consulates
US Embassy Bern
Sulgeneckstrasse 19
3007 Bern
Phone: +41 31 357 7011
Emergency (after hours): +41 31 357 7777
US Consulate General Zurich
Dufourstrasse 101
8008 Zurich
Phone: +41 43 499 2960
Embassy Services
- Passport services (replacement, renewal)
- Emergency assistance for US citizens
- Notarial services
- Information on local resources
- Assistance during crises
STEP Program
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive security alerts and enable the Embassy to assist you in emergencies.
Police and Legal System
Interacting with Police
- Police are professional and generally helpful
- Many officers speak English, especially in cities
- Always carry ID (passport or residence permit)
- Police can request ID without specific cause
- Cooperate calmly; Swiss police rarely escalate
If Arrested
- You have the right to contact the US Embassy
- Right to an attorney (can be court-appointed)
- Right to remain silent
- Right to interpreter if needed
- Detention conditions are good by international standards
Health and Medical Emergencies
Hospital Emergency Rooms
All major cities have 24/7 emergency rooms (Notfall/Urgences). Quality is excellent. English usually available.
REGA Air Rescue
Switzerland's famous helicopter rescue service. Membership (CHF 40/year / ~$45 USD for individuals) provides rescue coverage anywhere in Switzerland and repatriation worldwide. Highly recommended for mountain enthusiasts.
Pharmacies
- Apotheken/Pharmacies well-distributed
- Emergency pharmacies operate nights/weekends (rotation system)
- Pharmacists can provide basic medical advice
- Many medications require prescription that are OTC in US
Download the AlertSwiss App: Official Swiss government app for emergency alerts, including natural disasters, severe weather, and other hazards. Available in multiple languages including English.
Practical Safety Tips
- Insurance: Ensure health insurance covers accidents; consider REGA membership
- Mountain activities: Appropriate equipment, inform others of plans, check conditions
- Driving: Winter tires mandatory in snow conditions; mountain roads can be challenging
- Swimming: Lakes and rivers can have strong currents; respect warning signs
- Documents: Keep copies of passport and permits; register with Embassy
- Weather: Check forecasts before outdoor activities; conditions change fast
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Safety conditions can change. Always check current advisories from the US State Department and local authorities. Information current as of January 2026.