Housing and Logistics
Register your dog and pay the dog tax
A dog imported from abroad must be presented to a vet in Switzerland within ten days; the practice checks the identification and records the dog in the AMICUS dog database. For this you need an AMICUS personal number, which your municipality issues. The dog must also be registered with your municipality, which levies the annual dog tax; its amount differs by municipality and canton. Some cantons require proof of competence or a keeping permit for certain breeds.
Who this applies to. This guide applies if bringing pets is yes.
Checklist
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Request an AMICUS personal number from your municipality
Without the personal number from the municipality the veterinary practice cannot register the dog.
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Present the dog to a vet within 10 days
The deadline runs from the import; the practice checks the identification and reports the dog to AMICUS.
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Register the dog with your municipality
The municipality keeps the dog register and levies the dog tax.
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Pay the dog tax
Annual levy of your municipality; the amount differs from place to place.
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Check cantonal requirements
Some cantons require proof of competence or a keeping permit for certain breeds.
Costs
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Dog tax CHF 60–200 · yearly
Payable annually and set by your municipality. For a second dog many municipalities charge a multiple of the first rate.
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AMICUS registration CHF 0–20 · one-time
Fee charged by your municipality for registering as a dog owner; some cantons charge nothing. The microchip and the entry of its number are billed separately by the veterinary practice.
No total: the items depend on conditions and on your situation. A total without your answers would be too high or too low depending on the case — the cost calculation in your plan uses them.
Frequently asked questions
Who does this guide apply to?
This guide applies if bringing pets is yes.
What does it cost?
Dog tax: CHF 60–200 (yearly). AMICUS registration: CHF 0–20 (one-time).
What do I need to do?
Request an AMICUS personal number from your municipality; Present the dog to a vet within 10 days; Register the dog with your municipality; Pay the dog tax; Check cantonal requirements.
As of: 08.10.2026