Passar – The New Swiss Customs Clearance System

With Passar, Switzerland is fundamentally modernizing its customs processes. The new system is gradually replacing the existing e-dec and NCTS solutions and serves as a core element of the DaziT digitalization program. Passar aims to establish a fully digital, transparent and automated customs process across the entire supply chain, both nationally and internationally.

Passar enables significantly more efficient processes by automating declarations, using structured data formats and allowing direct integration into ERP and logistics systems. At the same time, traceability, transparency and compliance are improved. This allows companies to gain real-time visibility into customs status and can respond more quickly to irregularities, enhancing planning reliability across complex supply chains.

With Passar 1.0, transit procedures are already fully digitalized, while exports are scheduled to follow by the end of 2025. Starting in 2026, Passar 2.0 will cover import processes, including integration of AEO, connectivity to the Stadi statistics system and the introduction of automated verification mechanisms. Passar 3.0 completes the rollout by addressing special procedures such as inward processing and temporary imports.

The transition to Passar is mandatory and presents both technological and organizational challenges, including the integration of new interfaces, harmonizing internal data formats, protecting sensitive customs data and securely embedding the system into existing IT environments. During the transition period, parallel operation with legacy systems will be necessary to ensure smooth and uninterrupted processes.

Industries with international operations, such as logistics, mechanical engineering, automotive and the medical technology sectors, are primarily impacted. These sectors rely on tightly coordinated supply chains, making seamless customs clearance critical to success. Passar delivers real value through real-time capabilities and automation to make that success possible.

Taking early action ensures regulatory compliance but also operational advantages such as faster processing, reduced error rates, lower costs and improved integration into the digital trade environment of the future

The new customs clearance system Passar, introduced by the Swiss Federal Customs Administration, will gradually replace the existing NCTS system for transit procedures as well as e-dec for imports and exports. Passar is part of the broader DaziT modernization program, which aims to fully digitalize and simplify customs processes.

Passar makes customs clearance in Switzerland more efficient, more transparent and more seamlessly integrated into international trade processes. Going forward, companies will be required to handle their customs declarations through this new system, which calls for adjustments to existing processes and IT infrastructures. The specific goals, related tasks, challenges and benefits for businesses are outlined in the course of this guide.

As part of Switzerland’s DaziT digitalization program, Passar is designed to simplify customs procedures through full digital mapping, accelerate processing directly at the borders and align with international standards. The following sections provide a detailed look at the goals and benefits.

Automated processes eliminate many previously manual steps, significantly reducing administrative effort. In practice, automation means that goods declarations are directly linked with transport notifications, allowing them to be activated automatically at the border. The exchange of customs data, including import, export and transit information, between businesses and authorities, along with the required documentation and transmission, takes place without manual input. This saves time and streamlines the process, eliminating the need for in-person visits to customs offices. Logistics companies and their goods can cross the border seamlessly, with stops required only in the case of inspections.

In addition to time savings and increased efficiency, the classification of goods and risk assessment are also carried out automatically, based on predefined rules and algorithms. As a result, customs processes become not only faster but also more accurate and secure.

Enhanced transparency and traceability of customs declarations build on automation. Continuous monitoring of transactions and the automated detection of irregularities or missing documents help ensure compliance and support for a fully auditable customs process for all parties involved, ultimately benefiting businesses in particular.

All customs declarations and processes are captured in real time within Passar. Companies can track the current status of each shipment, from the submission of the declaration to final customs clearance. Passar automatically notifies companies about the progress of customs procedures or any discrepancies, ensuring that no critical information is overlooked. This includes detailed, traceable documentation of risk management processes and customs decisions, giving businesses clear insight into why specific decisions were made and how the respective status was determined. This level of traceability not only brings greater visibility but also helps identify bottlenecks or delays early, allowing for proactive responses and ensuring continuity across the supply chain.

Passar also contributes to optimizing cross-border customs processes and increasing efficiency in international trade by aligning with global standards. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with major international customs systems and platforms, including collaboration with systems such as the EU’s ICS2 and Germany’s ATLAS. Passar relies on internationally recognized data formats and protocols to simplify the exchange of information between customs authorities. This allows businesses to move away from dealing with varying requirements and formats and instead benefit from a unified solution for all international customs declarations. Especially in Switzerland’s role as a key transit country within Europe, this results in smoother, uninterrupted cross-border customs procedures. Moreover, Passar’s close alignment with international standards means it is not only optimized for today’s requirements but also built to adapt flexibly to future changes in global customs regulations.

As part of this harmonization, Passar has been developed to integrate seamlessly into companies’ existing IT infrastructure. Customs processing is no longer handled in isolation but becomes a fully embedded part of established workflows and systems, allowing businesses to continue using their current software solutions efficiently. To enable this, Passar offers modern, standardized APIs that, when properly integrated, support automated data exchange between Passar and other IT systems. This primarily includes ERP systems, inventory management software and logistics platforms. In short, these enhanced integration capabilities mean that Passar should not be seen as a standalone solution, but as an integral component of the existing digital ecosystem.

Key business benefits at a glance:

The entire Passar system is being rolled out in multiple phases to modernize and digitalize the various areas of customs processing. Passar 1.0 marks the first milestone and has been operational since June 1, 2023. This initial stage of the overall project already includes specific functions, such as handling transit procedures (formerly referred to as “Transit”), and represents only the first step toward fully digitalizing and optimizing Switzerland’s customs processes. The section “Passar roadmap” will later cover what to expect from Passar 2.0 and Passar 3.0.

The section “Goals and benefits of Passar” explored the broader impact of the system. The key objectives associated with the launch of Passar 1.0 include:

Passar is implemented gradually, but it is mandatory. Companies that rely on the affected customs procedures must prepare for each phase in a timely manner. The reason for this required system adaptation is that the legacy applications NCTS and e-dec are being phased out and will no longer be developed or supported going forward.

The phased shutdown of the existing customs systems requires companies to adapt their internal processes, IT infrastructure, and employee training. Taking early action is key to ensuring smooth operations later on. This is especially relevant for the automation of customs data transmission, integration into existing ERP and logistics systems, and the use of new interfaces introduced with Passar. These topics are explored in more detail in the section “Technological and organizational requirements for the transition to Passar.”

Passar 1.0 does not yet cover all areas of international trade, as its current focus is limited to specific customs procedures:

Imports into Switzerland are not yet directly affected by Passar 1.0. Importers can continue using the existing systems e-dec Import and e-dec Web until mid-2025.

In its first phase, Passar applies exclusively to transit and export processes. Changes to import processes are planned for later phases, particularly with Passar 2.0, which will cover import procedures starting in 2026.

Passar, as a comprehensive modernization project, impacts both Swiss companies as well as international businesses, especially those that:

• Regularly move goods through Switzerland (transit)
• Import goods into Switzerland
• Export goods from Switzerland

Passar is not limited to Swiss companies, but also affects businesses with international supply chains, particularly in the areas of transit and export. The European Union and other European trade agreements play a key role in this context, as Passar is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing international customs systems. This supports more streamlined cross-border goods movements and enhances efficiency and traceability of customs processes beyond Switzerland’s borders.

The following sections take a closer look at Passar from the perspective of key industries most impacted by the new system.

After exploring the benefits, obligations and industry-specific perspectives in the previous sections, the following chapters focus on the technological and organizational challenges associated with effectively adopting Switzerland’s new customs clearance system. While the transition may present short-term hurdles, successfully managing this innovation offers long-term advantages for all stakeholders involved.

A key success factor is the integration of the new system into existing IT environments to ensure smooth and automated customs processing. Companies need to address the technical requirements, new interfaces, and data transmission processes in order to embed Passar effectively into their operations.

Before taking a closer look at these aspects individually in the following sections, it is important to note that customs processes cannot be viewed in isolation. They are an integral part of a company’s overall supply chain, inventory management and financial workflows. Poor or insufficient integration with existing systems can lead to delays, retroactive customs duties, manual corrections or even legal complications. Passar is designed to make customs processing more automated, efficient and transparent. However, this requires companies to adapt their current IT systems to meet the new requirements.

Passar marks a fundamental shift in how data is processed and transmitted within customs procedures. At its core, Passar relies on modernized technical standards that enable fully digital, structured, and automated data exchange. This move toward end-to-end digitalization requires companies to carefully review their existing customs and logistics systems and make adjustments where necessary to support the new formats and requirements. This alignment is the prerequisite for successful customs integration.

Passar replaces the previously paper-based and semi-automated customs processes with a fully digital workflow, where all relevant data is transmitted in structured formats. This not only improves data quality but also enables faster and more efficient processing of customs declarations. Companies still relying on manual or hybrid processes will need to adapt to the new digital standards, as paper-based submissions and unstructured data will no longer be supported.

The digital exchange of customs data requires APIs. Companies must adapt their systems to ensure compatibility with these new interfaces. Most rely on ERP platforms such as SAP, Microsoft Dynamics or specialized customs and logistics software to manage inventory and customs declarations. To ensure smooth integration with Passar, the following technical changes must be considered, requiring preparation, system adjustments and targeted integration efforts.

• API-based access: To send and receive customs data, companies must connect their customs systems to Passar’s APIs, as manual entries and paper-based processes will no longer be supported. If an ERP or customs system does not offer direct integration with Passar’s APIs, a middleware or integration platform can be used to bridge the gap between the system and Passar.
• Data formats and structures: Communication with Passar is based on structured data exchange, using clearly defined data fields and formats. Existing systems must be able to support these formats directly or rely on middleware solutions for compatibility. Customs declarations should be transmitted from the ERP or inventory management system to Passar without the need for manual input.
• Automated data validation: Incorrect or incomplete data is automatically detected and rejected by Passar, which makes upfront data validation and verification essential.
• Real-time data transfer: The status of customs declarations is transmitted in real time. Companies need a database or monitoring solution to track changes in the customs process at any time.

These changes result in three key tasks that are essential for a seamless transition to Passar:

• Integration of new APIs and interfaces to enable direct communication with Passar
• Adjustments to ERP systems and customs software to ensure that required data is transmitted in a structured and complete format
• Review of existing databases and warehouse management systems to align with changes in how customs and transport data must be captured and stored

This also brings three specific challenges companies need to address:

• Many businesses still use outdated customs software that is not compatible with Passar’s API standards. A gradual migration is therefore necessary, often requiring a temporary parallel operation of both legacy and new systems. This is covered in more detail in the section “Transition phase and parallel operation.”
• Different systems within a company often use inconsistent data formats and terminology, which must be harmonized to ensure compatibility with Passar.
• Since customs and transaction data is transmitted through digital interfaces, a high level of IT security is essential to prevent unauthorized access, manipulation or data breaches.

Additionally, companies using customs software from third-party providers need to check whether their current solutions are compatible with Passar or if updates and system migrations are required. Many providers now offer patches and updates that align their software with Passar-compatible formats and interfaces. Businesses should ensure these updates are available in time and can be properly integrated into their systems. It is also critical to pay close attention to deadlines and transition periods, as existing software without the necessary updates will no longer be able to transmit valid data to Passar. Additionally, it’s important to recognize that migration projects or any new system implementation may involve varying degrees of integration effort. The section “Transition phase and parallel operation” provides a more detailed look at migration and integration.

Test runs and integration testing are essential to ensure that the migration to a new system and its implementation within the existing ecosystem are successful. They help confirm that the new customs processes with Passar function seamlessly and are fully digitalized, while also ensuring that compliance-related security requirements are consistently met. In addition, companies should maintain regular communication with their software providers to stay informed about upcoming updates and necessary adjustments.

Electronic data exchange with the Swiss customs authorities increases the need to protect sensitive business and trade data. The risk of cyberattacks, unauthorized access or data manipulation is rising, as customs and trade information can be attractive targets for criminal and especially fraudulent activity. In this means, companies must also ensure compliance with legal requirements related to data protection and information security, which is especially important for businesses operating across multiple countries, where different regulatory standards apply. Violations can lead not only to legal consequences but also to a loss of trust among business partners and customers. In this context, the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) has already defined several security and compliance measures as part of Passar. Companies are expected to actively contribute to these efforts through appropriate technical and organizational measures (TOMs).

• Registration and access controls
  Access to Passar is managed via the FOCBS ePortal. Companies using Switzerland’s new customs clearance system must complete a one-time registration through the portal. A digital identification process ensures that only authorized users and businesses are granted access. Passar is not intended to be used as a manual web interface. It rather is integrated into a company’s customs software via APIs. These API connections are secured using encrypted communication protocols to protect the transmission of sensitive data from manipulation or unauthorized access. Users must either adapt their in-house software solutions or rely on third-party providers. Even after integration, companies can define individual access controls and user roles within their account to establish long-term security measures. This ensures that only authorized users can view, edit or approve customs data.
• Emergency process
  In the event of technical disruptions, the FOCBS has developed a detailed contingency manual. This outlines the procedures to follow during emergency or crisis situations and has been adapted from the existing fallback protocols used in e-dec and NCTS for the new Passar system. It includes specific instructions for handling customs procedures during system outages. Emergency procedures may be triggered by planned interruptions, such as maintenance work, which are communicated in advance via the News Service Portal, or by unexpected disruptions. In the latter case, the FOCBS Service Desk will inform affected parties immediately after reviewing and approving the incident. Status updates are provided regularly through the traffic light system and the News Service Bund. During system recovery, companies must submit the necessary documents via email or in person at the responsible customs office. These documents are then manually reviewed and the required customs processes are carried out accordingly. Detailed guidance can be found in the FOCBS contingency manual.
• Data management
  Passar introduces the self-care principle, which allows users to independently enter and manage their own data, improves data quality and contributes to the accuracy of declarations and overall compliance. To implement the self-care approach effectively, companies should follow a structured data management strategy:
  • Central data management and regular updates
    Central master data management, supported by a comprehensive integration platform, ensures data consistency across all systems. Regular reviews and updates of key master data, such as commodity codes, preference certificates and customs value information, help ensure that all customs-relevant data is accurate, complete and up to date. This reduces the risk of delays, retroactive charges or incorrect declarations, and supports smooth, compliant customs processing.
  • Automated validation and testing mechanisms
    Validation mechanisms can automatically check customs data before it is transmitted to Passar. Using artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning, common errors can be identified and corrected without the need for manual intervention
  • Training and clearly defined responsibilities
    Employees in customs and logistics departments should receive regular training on the latest customs regulations and compliance requirements. Clear role assignments for data entry and validation, along with access controls and user permissions within the organization, help prevent unauthorized access and changes to sensitive data.
  • Secure archiving and traceability
    An audit-proof archiving solution ensures reliable, legally compliant storage and archiving of all customs data and makes it accessible for audits. Internal audits and spot checks help maintain data quality and ensure compliance, while also identifying potential issues early so that corrective action can be taken before problems escalate. External consultants can provide valuable support when adapting to new regulatory requirements.

An integration platform supports efficient and effective data management by connecting all relevant data sources and enabling centralized control. Automated synchronization of master data across ERP, logistics and customs systems prevents inconsistencies and ensures that customs declarations are always enriched with accurate and validated information. Intelligent validation mechanisms can also be embedded within the platform to detect errors early, before data is transmitted to Passar, which avoids costly corrections or delays in customs processing. Additionally, an integration platform simplifies real-time data exchange with Passar, ensuring that status updates, corrections or additions are immediately reflected across all connected systems.

Passar requires companies to implement a carefully planned migration strategy to avoid disruptions to daily operations. During the transition phase, legacy and new systems must run in parallel to ensure a smooth migration and successful integration. This implies that companies need to align their existing customs systems and processes with the new Passar requirements and test them in a controlled environment before going live.

Parallel operations offer companies the opportunity to analyze existing interfaces, data flows and process structures in order to gradually adapt them to meet the new requirements. Beforehand, the existing customs software must be able to communicate seamlessly with Passar. Middleware or API gateways can support step-by-step data transmission during this phase. Throughout the parallel operation, businesses should implement automated validation mechanisms to identify any discrepancies between old and new systems. In this context, manual checks by specialists should be carried out to ensure data quality and system stability.

The gradual migration process ensures logically structured steps within the whole project, allowing for controlled error analysis before full migration. Companies can begin by processing specific workflows or product groups through Passar, while continuing to use their existing system for all other operations. Once testing is successful, legacy systems should be gradually deactivated to reduce technical redundancies and minimize costs.

Throughout the entire transition, it is essential to recognize that migration cannot succeed without proper integration . Especially if new customs software is being introduced alongside Passar, both legacy and new systems must run in parallel to ensure business continuity. Without synchronized integration, data silos can emerge, preventing consistent alignment of information between old and new systems. This increases the risk of duplicate entries, incorrect customs declarations or missing status updates in inventory systems. Due to the fully digital, API-based data exchange required by Passar, manual data transfers from legacy systems are not only impractical but also prone to errors and resource-intensive. A well-planned integration strategy, both during and after the transition, ensures that legacy data is made compatible with Passar, transition periods are used effectively and companies can gradually shift to the new system without risking operational disruptions.

Passar is more than just a technological change. Successful adoption requires internal process adjustments, effective change management and clear and ongoing communication with the Swiss customs authorities. Companies must ensure they stay up to date on current requirements and resolve any questions regarding system changes, technical interfaces or new regulations as early as possible. Proactive collaboration with customs offices helps avoid delays and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

• Ongoing coordination with the FOCBS
  Companies should actively use the official communication channels provided by the FOCBS, including webinars, guidelines and regular updates in the ePortal, to be able to respond quickly to changes. Participating in training sessions and information events provides deeper insights into new regulations and offers the opportunity to clarify open questions directly with the authorities. To streamline knowledge transfer within the organization, a dedicated customs liaison can be appointed to serve as the central point of contact between the company and customs authorities. This role should not only consolidate information from official sources but also ensure that all relevant departments are promptly informed of new requirements and can implement them effectively.
• Clarifying technical requirements and preparing for testing
  Before fully transitioning to Passar, technical aspects of API integration should be aligned directly with the FOCBS to ensure a smooth implementation. Companies are encouraged to register early for test phases or pilot programs with customs authorities to validate internal workflows and identify potential sources of error in advance. This allows for necessary technical and procedural adjustments beforehand. As noted earlier, it is also recommended to maintain direct communication with the authorities, especially in cases of uncertainty regarding customs regulations or specific product categories. This helps prevent incorrect declarations that could otherwise result in delays or additional costs.
• Support and communication during emergencies
  As highlighted in the section on „Cyber security and compliance,“ a well-organized emergency communication process is essential to ensure fast and effective coordination with the FOCBS in the event of technical issues or system outages. Companies should clarify in advance which official support channels are available (for example, the FOCBS Service Desk) where disruptions can be reported and assistance requested. It is equally important to establish internal procedures for handling customs-related inquiries quickly and efficiently. An internal ticketing system can help prioritize requests and provide transparent documentation of the processing status. These measures ensure that companies remain operational even in emergency situations and can continue customs procedures without major delays.

Following the digitalization of export and transit procedures under Passar 1.0, Passar 2.0 will focus on fully digitalizing import processes into Switzerland.

Passar 2.0 replaces e-dec Import, with the goal of further automating import processes and aligning them with modern technical standards. More specifically, Passar 2.0 will cover the import of goods into free circulation, including simplified procedures and a transitional solution for inward processing. Its key features include:

• The core regulatory requirements for Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) will be integrated into the Passar system. This means that companies with AEO status will be able to submit their customs declarations directly through Passar under the simplified conditions granted to authorized traders. This includes streamlined customs procedures, reduced inspection rates and faster clearance for AEO-certified businesses. With this integration, AEO companies will no longer need to manage separate processes or submit additional documentation, but instead access AEO-related benefits directly within Passar’s standardized workflows.
• Another key feature of Passar 2.0 is its integration with the Stadi system, which enables efficient monitoring of specific goods flows. Stadi, short for Statistical Declaration, is used to collect, control and analyze import and transport data for goods entering Switzerland. With this integration, relevant data will be transmitted automatically and in real time to the Stadi system, eliminating the need for manual entry and significantly reducing the risk of errors. This connection is especially important for goods subject to special monitoring requirements, including certain agricultural products, raw materials or regulated industrial goods.
• Finally, Passar 2.0 can be integrated into Probabel (formerly known as Richtigcode), a function for the automated validation and correction of customs declarations. This feature is designed to improve the efficiency of customs processing by detecting and resolving errors early, before they lead to delays or charges. Another new feature is the option for reduced goods declaration with supplemental information submitted at a later stage. This allows companies to file a simplified declaration and provide missing details within a defined time frame. It offers particular advantages for businesses handling large shipments or complex supply chains, enabling them to manage customs processes more flexibly and efficiently without risking supply chain disruptions.

The roadmap for Passar 2.0 also follows a phased rollout:

• By the third quarter of 2025, the final technical documentation will be published for software developers, allowing companies and IT service providers to begin adapting their systems in advance.
• In the second quarter of 2026, the pilot and pre-production phase will begin. Early adopters will be able to test Passar 2.0, identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments. From this point on, a parallel operation with e-dec Import will also be in place to ensure a smooth transition.
• The migration must be fully completed by March 31, 2027, as import declarations will no longer be accepted via e-dec Import after that date.

Since the requirements for digital customs procedures are continuously evolving, the detailed timeline for replacing e-dec Web is still under development.

Similar to Passar 1.0, the introduction of Passar 2.0 offers companies a wide range of business benefits, particularly through the optimization of import processes, a higher level of automation and enhanced compliance. With the full replacement of e-dec Import, businesses will benefit from a modern, digitalized system that makes customs processing faster, more secure and more cost-efficient. The key advantages of Passar 2.0 include:

• Optimized customs processing: Passar 2.0 accelerates import procedures through fully digital handling, reduces manual intervention and minimizes errors with the integration of Probabel.
• Automated data transmission and reduced manual effort: Integration with the Stadi system simplifies the statistical reporting of goods movements, while direct AEO integration provides faster access to preferred customs procedures.
• Improved data quality and transparency: The self-care principle enables companies to manage their customs master data independently, while automated validation mechanisms ensure traceable and compliant import declarations.
• Reduced inspection workload and lower error risk: The integration of regulatory requirements, such as AEO, streamlines customs clearance, while digital validation processes and the option for simplified declarations with subsequent completion help minimize error rates.
• Greater flexibility through optimized warehousing and customs processes: The integration of customs and tax warehouses allows for more flexible inventory management and deferred duty payments, while parallel operation with e-dec Import enables a gradual migration without business disruption.
• Cost efficiency through automation and seamless IT integration: Optimized interfaces with ERP and customs systems simplify complex logistics workflows, reduce manual customs processing and minimize delays, ultimately lowering operational costs over the long term.

While Passar 2.0 focuses on the complete replacement of e-dec Import and the digitalization of import processes, Passar 3.0 takes things a step further. This final phase centers on the modernization and digitalization of supervised customs procedures.

• Temporary admission: This includes the digitalization of import and export procedures for goods temporarily brought into or out of Switzerland, such as trade fair equipment or loaned items.
• Inward and outward processing: These special customs procedures allow goods to be imported into or exported from Switzerland duty-free or at reduced rates for further processing. Passar 3.0 will digitalize these procedures, making it easier for companies involved in international production and processing workflows to manage them efficiently.
  Inward processing applies to non-EU and non-EFTA goods that are temporarily imported into Switzerland duty-free for the purpose of processing, refinement or repair. After processing, the goods are either re-exported or released for free circulation, at which point the applicable duties are paid. For example, a Swiss company may import raw materials from a non-EU country, process them into high-value components and then export them — all without incurring import duties when the goods enter Switzerland.
  Outward processing applies when Swiss or already customs-cleared goods are temporarily exported for further processing or repair abroad. When reimported into Switzerland, customs duties and import taxes are calculated only on the added value, such as the service performed or additional materials used. A typical example would be a Swiss watch manufacturer sending product components to France for assembly and then reimporting the finished watches back into Switzerland at a reduced duty rate.
• Simplified declaration with automated monitoring: With Passar 3.0, the simplified declaration procedure will be further optimized and enhanced through automated monitoring. This procedure allows companies to submit a streamlined customs declaration for specific goods or transactions, significantly reducing administrative effort. In practice, this means submitting an initial declaration with only the essential information allows for faster clearance without needing all details upfront.
  At the same time, customs authorities automatically review all relevant information in the background, requiring no additional manual input from the company. Once all necessary data has been received, the declaration is finalized. If discrepancies are identified, they can be corrected proactively in order to help companies avoid delays or penalties.
• Simplified Periodic Declaration: As part of Passar 3.0, the Simplified Periodic Declaration procedure will be introduced, allowing companies to declare similar goods collectively over defined intervals instead of submitting a separate customs declaration for each shipment. One consolidated declaration is submitted for the total quantity moved during a specific period. Duties and taxes are then calculated based on the actual volumes imported or exported within that timeframe. Prior authorization from the customs authority is required, as companies must meet specific eligibility criteria to use this simplified procedure.

The roadmap for Passar 3.0 follows a similar gradual approach as the previous stages, focusing on the digitalization of supervised customs procedures.

• By the third quarter of 2026, the final technical documentation will be released for software developers.
• In the second quarter of 2027, the pilot and pre-production phase will begin, allowing selected companies to test Passar 3.0. This phase is intended to identify potential issues and implement necessary adjustments before the system enters full operation.
• A fixed end date for Passar 3.0 has not yet been set. Implementation will take place gradually, based on insights from the pilot phase and companies’ ability to adapt to the new digital processes. Since the requirements for supervised customs procedures continue to evolve, the detailed timeline for individual features is still being finalized.

Passar 3.0 offers specific benefits for companies that use supervised customs procedures and complex special declarations. While Passar 1.0 and 2.0 primarily focused on digitalizing standard processes for transit, import and export, Passar 3.0 is aimed at optimizing specialized customs procedures that have traditionally involved a high administrative burden.

• Digitalization of temporary admission procedures: Duty-free or reduced-duty import and export of time-limited goods, such as trade fair equipment, loaned items or testing machinery will be fully managed through digital workflows. This includes automated deadline tracking to ensure timely re-export or proper customs clearance if the goods remain in Switzerland.
• Optimized inward and outward processing procedures: Inward and outward processing will become more efficient through improved digital tracking and traceability of goods. This enables automated calculation of duties for processed goods, eliminating the need for manual checks by customs authorities.
• Simplification of special customs procedures: Passar 3.0 simplifies non-standard customs procedures through features such as the Simplified Periodic Declaration for recurring bulk goods, Simplified Declarations with Supplementary Data supported by automated validation and two-stage export procedures for complex, multi-step export flows. These improvements significantly reduce the administrative burden for businesses managing special customs cases.
• Improved planning reliability for specialized industries: Industries with highly dynamic supply chains benefit from precise traceability, automated deadline tracking and digitalized warehousing processes for supervised goods. These capabilities make customs procedures more reliable and easier to plan.