VAT on Gold in Switzerland
Investment gold bars and state-minted gold coins are sold free of VAT. Gold jewellery and watches carry the standard 8.1% VAT. Today 10 grams of 24K gold cost CHF 1,028 at the world price, with no tax on investment bars and coins.
Rules checked 26 October 2026 · Prices Oct 30, 2026, 21:55 UTC · Not tax advice
Gold in Switzerland today, with tax
CHF · Oct 30, 2026, 21:55 UTC| Weight | World price, 24K gold | Bar or coin, with tax and duty | 18K jewellery metal, with tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 gram | CHF 102.77 | CHF 102.77 | CHF 83.32 |
| 10 grams | CHF 1,028 | CHF 1,028 | CHF 833.19 |
| 1 ounce | CHF 3,196 | CHF 3,196 | CHF 2,592 |
| 100 grams | CHF 10,277 | CHF 10,277 | CHF 8,332 |
| 500 grams | CHF 51,384 | CHF 51,384 | CHF 41,659 |
The rules in Switzerland
| What you buy | Tax | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Bars and bullion coins | 0% | Investment gold bars and state-minted gold coins are sold free of VAT. Cast or pressed bars of at least 995 fineness stamped by a recognised assayer-melter, sealed granules of the same purity, and gold coins struck by state mints. The exemption carries the right to deduct input tax. |
| Jewellery | 8.1% | Gold jewellery and watches carry the standard 8.1% VAT. Charged on: full value. |
| Import duty | 0% | No import duty is built into local bullion prices; Switzerland is the main gold refining hub. |
| Tourist refund | Yes | Visitors can buy tax-free when they export the goods: minimum CHF 300 including VAT per sales transaction, with an export stamp from Swiss customs. VAT is 7.5% of the price, less operator fees. On 2 June 2026 the National Council backed a motion to cut the minimum to CHF 150; it still needs the Council of States. |
Compared with nearby countries
VAT on Gold in Switzerland: FAQ
Is there VAT on gold in Switzerland?
Investment gold bars and state-minted gold coins are sold free of VAT. Gold jewellery and watches carry the standard 8.1% VAT.
Do you pay VAT on gold bars and coins in Switzerland?
Investment gold bars and state-minted gold coins are sold free of VAT. Cast or pressed bars of at least 995 fineness stamped by a recognised assayer-melter, sealed granules of the same purity, and gold coins struck by state mints. The exemption carries the right to deduct input tax.
Is there import duty on gold in Switzerland?
No import duty is built into local bullion prices; Switzerland is the main gold refining hub.
Can tourists claim back the VAT on gold in Switzerland?
Yes. Visitors can buy tax-free when they export the goods: minimum CHF 300 including VAT per sales transaction, with an export stamp from Swiss customs. VAT is 7.5% of the price, less operator fees. On 2 June 2026 the National Council backed a motion to cut the minimum to CHF 150; it still needs the Council of States.
Sources (3)
- Swiss VAT Ordinance art. 44: investment gold (2024-07)
- FOCBS (BAZG): refunds of Swiss VAT (accessed 2026-10-26)
- blue News: National Council wants more attractive tax-free shopping (2026-06-02)
Related
General information on the tax a private buyer pays, checked 26 October 2026. Rules change; check with the seller, the tax authority or an adviser. Not tax advice.