A laser pointer is a device used to project a point, line or other visual pattern. They can also be used for entertainment, to scare off animals or for self-defence.

In Switzerland, the Federal Act on Protection against the Risks associated with Non-Ionising Radiation and with Sound, which came into force on 1 June 2019, bans laser pointers deemed dangerous. These are laser pointers classified as 1M, 2, 2M, 3R, 3B and 4. Only class 1 laser pointers, which pose no health risk, are authorised and can be identified by the following label: 

For more information, please consult the following link:

Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)

In light of the above information, the Swiss Mission would like to remind permanent missions and international organisations that possessing, importing, or transiting with dangerous laser pointers is strictly prohibited within Swiss territory.

While such laser pointers are not banned on aircraft, either in the cabin or the hold, they are prohibited in Switzerland. They may therefore be confiscated and destroyed by customs officials. Passengers found to be in possession of such devices will be questioned by the police and may be liable to prosecution. The same applies to persons who order these laser pointers from abroad and have them delivered to Switzerland.