Switzerland will introduce the biometric ID card with a chip on November 2, 2026. At the same time, the new ID card office for the Canton of St. Gallen will begin operations at the Sargans train station. In the future, Swiss citizens will be able to have the biometric data required for a Swiss passport or ID card recorded there. With the introduction of the biometric ID card, Swiss ID cards can no longer be applied for through the Migration and Passport Office.
Switzerland will continue to offer identity cards without chips. These are primarily used as proof of identity within Switzerland. It is expected that, following a transition period of several years, these cards will no longer be recognized as travel documents for crossing the border.
For Swiss citizens residing in Liechtenstein, nothing will change when ordering a Swiss passport or a biometric ID card. They must continue to be registered with the Regional Consular Center in Vienna and can order their ID online. They can then have the required biometric data collected in Sargans, St. Gallen, Vienna, or another designated data collection center.
Liechtenstein introduced the biometric ID card at the beginning of 2024.