- Frequent questions E-Vignette
- Frequent questions PSVA
Why do I need a vignette?
The use of Swiss motorways is subject to a charge for all motor vehicles and trailers that are not subject to the heavy vehicle charge. This charge is levied in the form of a vignette. In principle, all motor vehicles and trailers up to 3.5 t are subject to the vignette. The Swiss vignette is bound to the calendar year. It is valid from 1 December of the previous year to 31 January of the following year (14 months).
Can I get a refund, e.g. in the event of an erroneous purchase?
No. As a rule, refunds are possible only if it can be demonstrated that a duplicate purchase was made in the webshop or that the means of payment was debited twice. A refund can be requested using the contact form, attaching the relevant receipts (with identical number plate).
Change of number plate due to input error
In the case of domestic number plates, the correction can be made once directly in the webshop ticket (pencil icon > Change number plate). In the case of foreign number plates, the correction can be made once within 24 hours of purchase directly in the webshop ticket (pencil icon > Change number plate).
Incorrect hyphens and/or spaces are irrelevant and do not require correction.
Is it generally possible to change a number plate?
No. The e-vignette can only be transferred to the new number plate directly in the webshop ticket (symbol at the top next to shopping cart, then pen symbol -> change registration number or create registration number change request) if the vehicle and holder remain identical (e.g. in the event of a move or loss of the number plate). It is mandatory to include relevant documents (e.g. old and new vehicle registration document).
It is not possible to change license plates in connection with company formations and takeovers.
How can a duplicate purchase of an e-vignette be prevented?
Technically, there is no way of preventing a duplicate purchase. However, there is a functionality allowing you to check if the charge for a specific number plate has already been paid. This function must be selected by means of consent when purchasing the e-vignette (Publicly viewable box) or subsequently in the webshop ticket (pencil icon > Change public visibility). If a duplicate purchase nonetheless occurs > see question on refunds.
How can I buy several e-vignettes (fleet management)?
See e-vignette for companies.
Do vehicles subject to PSVA also require a motorway vignette for journeys on Swiss motorways?
No, vehicles subject to the PSVA do not require a motorway vignette for journeys on Swiss motorways.
I am spending holidays in Switzerland in my motorhome, which will remain for several days on a campsite (vehicle will not be moved). Do I have to pay the lump-sum heavy vehicle charge (PSVA), even if I am not driving?
Foreign vehicles subject to the PSVA are liable to pay the tax for each day of stay in Switzerland, just like vehicles registered in Switzerland. This also applies if they are only parked and not driven.
I have purchased a new vehicle. Can I transfer the paid (and still valid) PSVA of the old vehicle to my new vehicle?
Yes, if the new vehicle is of the same type (and weight class for buses) as the old one, you may transfer the valid PSVA to the new vehicle by changing the license plate number in Via (app or webshop). However, if the vehicle type or the weight class for buses is not identical, the PSVA must be purchased again, although you can request a refund.
I have paid the PSVA for a longer period, but change my plans and leave Switzerland earlier. Is there a possibility of a refund?
Yes. If you have paid the PSVA for a certain period but no longer use it for the whole period, you are entitled to a pro rata refund, provided the refund amount is more than CHF 50.00. Refunds are subject to a fee (5% of the amount to be refunded, minimum CHF 30.00). Requests for refunds should be sent to [email protected]. A copy of the relevant receipt must also be submitted with the request and your payment details (IBAN) must be provided. If the PSVA was paid by means of form 15.91/92, the refund application must be completed on the reverse side and the original submitted by post (Federal Office for Customs and Border Security, Transport Taxes, 3003 Bern).
What happens to my data?
These are only used for the levy or for control purposes. When Via is used, the following data is recorded and stored in the information systems of the FOCBS:
- Type of vehicle (designation according to vehicle registration certificate [e.g. motorhome or coach])
- Weight of the vehicle (usually according to heading F2 of the vehicle registration certificate)
- Plate number (according to vehicle registration certificate)
- Length of stay in Switzerland (entry date to exit date) or selection of 10 individual days
- Your email address
