Definition: what does the CO₂ levy on car imports mean?
The CO₂ levy is a state-imposed charge that aims to reduce CO₂ emissions. When a vehicle is imported into Switzerland, it becomes due if the vehicle exceeds the statutory CO₂ target values.
Which vehicles are affected?
The decisive figures are the vehicle's CO₂ value according to the WLTP measurement procedure and the vehicle's weight. For the years 2025–2029, these target values apply:
- Passenger cars emitting more than 93.6 g CO₂/km, at a weight of 1'777 kg
- Light commercial vehicles emitting more than 153.9 g CO₂/km, at a weight of 2'130 kg
Heavy commercial vehicles
Heavy commercial vehicles are also subject to the CO₂ levy. The calculation is more complex than for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles – contact us if you have any questions.
Which vehicles are exempt?
Motorhomes are exempt from the CO₂ levy.
When does the CO₂ levy apply?
The period between first registration and the Swiss customs stamp is decisive:
- Vehicles first registered less than 6 months before import
- Vehicles between 6 and 12 months old with less than 5'000 km
- Older vehicles generally count as used cars and are not subject to the levy
How is the CO₂ levy calculated?
The calculation is based on two factors: the vehicle's weight (Certificate of Conformity, point 13.2) and its CO₂ emissions (COC, point 49 – weighted combined WLTP value). With our online calculator you determine your vehicle's target emission and excess within seconds.
Handling the CO₂ levy
Handling costs CHF 50.– per vehicle and usually takes three to five working days. Commercial importers enter their vehicles online on our dealer platform – with automatic calculation and support for eGOV, IVI and KDI processing. Required documents:
- CO₂ Börse AG handling form
- Form 13.20 A
- CoC / EC certificate of conformity
- Swiss customs receipt
- Foreign vehicle registration document
- Current mileage
CO₂ bonus: we reward fuel-efficient vehicles
If you import a low-CO₂ vehicle, we secure you an attractive bonus – without limit and regardless of the number of vehicles imported per year. For multiple importers, the bonus effectively amounts to a refund of the CO₂ levy.