Switzerland plans to introduce a biometric identity card by the end of 2026. The Federal Office of Police, in collaboration with federal and cantonal authorities, is developing a new ID card equipped with a chip.

According to Fedpol, the chip will store biometric data to enhance protection against misuse, such as forgery. A similar chip is already used in Swiss passports.

The biometric data on the ID card can only be accessed when the card is physically presented; remote reading is not possible, Fedpol states.

In addition, only countries with data protection standards comparable to Switzerland’s will be allowed to access the fingerprint information, according to a Swiss Info report.

This update aligns with measures adopted by the European Union. In 2019, the European Parliament and the Council of the EU passed a regulation requiring member states to issue biometric ID cards starting in 2021.

Although Switzerland is not an EU member, it is required to implement the chip-enabled ID card within one year of the revised Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons taking effect.

The biometric ID card is included in the agreement package between Switzerland and the EU, which has already been initialled. According to a press release on Monday, the new ID is expected to be available by the end of 2026.

Non-biometric ID cards issued before the new system is introduced will continue to be valid for travel to the EU until they expire, up to 10 years for adults. However, Fedpol advises using biometric ID cards for travel within the EU.

Biometric passports are also accepted for EU travel.

If the ID is only needed for identification within Switzerland, individuals can still opt for a non-biometric version.