The new Swiss customs system, explained simply.
PASSAR is changing the way Swiss customs manages operations. Here is what this means for your company and why, with EZdatacenter, nothing will change for you.
What is PASSAR
The Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) is undergoing a phase of complete digital transformation with the introduction of PASSAR, the new IT system that is gradually replacing the previous customs programmes.
PASSAR is the core of the DaziT programme, the Swiss customs digitalisation project launched in 2018 and due to formally conclude at the end of 2026, but work will continue uninterrupted through 2027 and beyond, with a focus on central systems.
Current status
PASSAR Export, Completed
The migration from e-dec Export to PASSAR Export is in its advanced completion phase. Three options are available: PASSAR Export (standard), e-dec Web (until replaced by «Declar»), or entrusting the process to a customs broker. Exemptions for the extended use of e-dec Export are progressively being withdrawn.
PASSAR Importazione, Pilot phase
The first pilot tests are scheduled after Easter 2026. The initial border crossings: the north-south axis with BWA and Chiasso Brogeda Merci. The process begins with accompanied individual transits, then will be extended to unaccompanied transits and other border crossings. Registration of all parties on the ePortal with commercial partner roles is mandatory.
Digital EUR.1 certificates, Pilot project
The FOCBS launched a pilot project in mid-March 2026 with the «Certificat» web application for the automated creation and validation of EUR.1 movement certificates. The certificates are available first as «Draft» and then as «Final» via Chartera Output.
What changes in practice
From PCD to GP-ID
With PASSAR 2.0, existing PCD (ZAZ) accounts will be replaced by the commercial partner ID (GP-ID). The commercial relationship will be at partner level, no longer through individual accounts. Existing guarantees will be assigned to the corresponding GP-ID and progressively released based on risk.
New debtor status (traffic light system)
PASSAR introduces a traffic light system visible in the «Finanzas» portal. Green: imports continue to be invoiced with payment terms. Red: overdue credits or insufficient guarantees exist, imports are only possible with immediate payment at customs.
Risk-based guarantees
Companies based in Switzerland or Liechtenstein are not, in principle, required to provide guarantees, unless they present a high risk. For companies based abroad, guarantees are required due to the limited possibilities for debt recovery, or imports must be paid directly at customs.
Activ App mandatory for imports
The use of the Activ app for automated border crossing is mandatory with PASSAR Importazione. The FOCBS will not create manual transport declarations. Currently fewer than 3% of exports use automated activation, with approximately 70,000 shipments per month presenting unnecessarily at the counter.
Simplified selection
PASSAR no longer distinguishes between formal and physical checks. There are now only two possible outcomes: «free» or «inspection». The duty assessment decision is made available digitally immediately after release. A new feature: a single document for customs and VAT.
Temporary access tokens
The previous GCD digital certificates with a three-year validity will be replaced by access tokens generated through the ePortal, which are more secure and compliant with the new standards.
Timeline
Please note: the FOCBS does not archive on your behalf
The FOCBS does not retain customs documents on behalf of companies. The responsibility for archiving lies entirely with the importer. Access to Chartera Output does not replace the legal obligation to preserve records for ten years. In the event of a tax audit, the absence of documentation may have direct consequences.
During the transitional phase, documents from the two systems (e-dec and PASSAR) will need to be managed separately. Those without a structured retrieval and preservation system risk documentary gaps with consequences at audit.
What to do: two scenarios
Are you already an EZdatacenter client
EZdatacenter has already initiated the transition process. You will receive a letter from Customs by post containing an activation code (valid for 10 days). Upon receipt, please contact us at easy@ezdatacenter.com. We will call you and finalise the registration on the ePortal at no additional cost.
Not yet a client
We will assist you fully with registration on the ePortal. Once completed, you will receive an onboarding code by post. Via Microsoft Teams, we will guide you through the registration process. This does not bind you to EZdatacenter nor does it entail any obligation to take out a subscription.
What EZdatacenter does during the transition
Assisted registration on ePortal and GP-ID
Full assistance with registration, obtaining the GP-ID and assignment of commercial partner roles. At no additional cost.
Automatic retrieval from both systems
Automatic retrieval of documents from both e-dec (Chartera Output) and PASSAR, from the very first day of operation. No documentary gaps during the transitional phase.
Compliant archiving for 10 years
Digital preservation with a signature compliant with Swiss law, on proprietary servers in Switzerland. A single portal for all documents, old and new.
Historical document recovery
Import into the digital archive of all prior customs declarations, to ensure continuity and completeness of the company dossier.
Glossary
Sources: FOCBS/BAZG, bazg.admin.ch · DaziT Economy Accompanying Group, session 1/2026 (16.03.2026). Last updated: March 2026.