Is Switzerland Safe in 2025?

A 2025 blog post on Switzerland’s levels of safety.

Is Switzerland Safe in 2025? What UK Expats & Travellers Should Know

So, you’re thinking about moving to Switzerland from the UK — or maybe you’ve just booked that trip. The question that often crops up before a big move or a holiday:
Is Switzerland safe?

In short: yes.
Switzerland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Low crime, stable politics, top-tier healthcare — it’s got the lot. But just like anywhere, there are a few things to know before you go.

Let’s break down what safety in Switzerland really looks like in 2025 — from crime stats and transport to expat life and day-to-day healthcare access.

🛡️ Crime Rates in Switzerland: Low and Steady

Switzerland has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.

Violent crime? Practically non-existent.
Gun crime? Rare. Legal ownership is tightly controlled.
Petty theft? Happens, mostly in tourist-heavy spots like Zurich or Geneva train stations — but still minimal compared to other major European cities.

According to Numbeo’s 2025 safety index, Switzerland ranks among the top 10 safest countries globally.

Want a broader view? Compare this to what it’s like in France, Germany, or Spain in terms of personal safety and crime stats.

🚔 Law, Order, and Stability

Switzerland is famously neutral — and it shows.

Police are visible, polite, and trusted
The justice system is efficient and fair
Political unrest? Doesn’t really happen here

Want to know how this compares to law enforcement and admin in Germany? Read: Germany Paperwork: What You Need to Move

👮 Is There a Catch? Fewer Police, More Trust

One interesting point that often surprises visitors and new residents alike: Switzerland has fewer police officers per capita than many of its neighbours.
According to Eurostat data, there are around 220 police officers per 100,000 people — far lower than countries like Italy or France (source).

So is that a concern? Not really.
In fact, it’s a reflection of how deeply embedded safety and social order are in Swiss culture.

Communities are trusted to self-regulate
Public behaviour is generally respectful and law-abiding
Serious violent crime is extremely rare

Even after high-profile incidents — like the 2016 train attack in canton St. Gallen — the Swiss response is to review security calmly, not over-police. As Geneva’s cantonal security head Pierre Maudet noted at the time, “there’s no such thing as zero risk,” but the country’s emphasis is on smart, minimal intervention — not heavy surveillance.

For more info on Swiss public systems and how they support residents, check out our Living in Switzerland guide.

🧍 Safety for Solo Travellers & Women

One of the reasons Switzerland attracts solo travellers and remote workers is how safe it feels alone — even at night.

Women walking alone? Common, even after dark
Solo travel? No issue, especially in cities like Lausanne, Bern, or Lucerne
Public spaces are clean, well-lit, and generally stress-free

Exploring other safe solo-friendly countries? You might also want to read:
Best Countries to Move to From the UK

🏥 Healthcare & Emergencies

Switzerland doesn’t just feel safe — it is safe, backed by world-class systems.

Emergency services are responsive and highly rated
Hospitals are clean, modern, and efficient
Ambulance and medical staff are well-trained, with high English proficiency

It’s worth noting that health insurance is mandatory for all residents — so get yourself covered early.

See our guides on:

Switzerland Visa Requirements
Cost of Living in Switzerland (until the Swiss one’s live, link to comparable)
How to Move to Switzerland from the UK

🚄 Transport & Everyday Life

Public transport in Switzerland is famously safe and reliable.

Trains run on time, are monitored, and widely used
Trams and buses are equally secure, even at night
Roads are well maintained — but if you’re driving in the Alps during winter, take it seriously

Learn how Switzerland’s efficiency compares to life in Germany, France, or Cyprus.

🏘️ What’s It Like Living in Switzerland?

Switzerland doesn’t just look safe — it lives safe.

Low noise, low stress cities
A culture of trust, privacy, and respect
Locals may seem reserved, but the environment is clean, polite, and civil

Expats overwhelmingly report high satisfaction with personal safety and quality of life.

Want to see what daily life is like? Visit our guide to Living in Switzerland or explore the full Moving to Switzerland relocation checklist.

Final Thoughts: Is Switzerland Safe?

Without a doubt, Switzerland is one of the safest places to live or visit in 2025. Whether you’re planning a short stay, a long-term relocation, or moving your family across, you’ll benefit from:

A calm, structured society
Low crime and political stability
Excellent healthcare and infrastructure
A high quality of life for expats

If safety is a major factor in your move — Switzerland ticks nearly every box.

Planning Your Move?

EuromoveDirect offers specialist removals from the UK to Switzerland. From logistics to customs, we handle the stressful parts — so you don’t have to.

Want to compare destinations? Read:

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