For customers

Yes—the purchase of sexual services from adults is legal in Switzerland. There is no ban on buying sex (unlike in Sweden, Norway, and France). You are only committing a criminal offense if the person is a minor (Art. 196 of the Swiss Criminal Code, up to 3 years’ imprisonment), is a victim of human trafficking (you should have recognized that they were in a situation of duress), or if stealthing or assault occurs. Discretion and waiving the right to a receipt are common practices, but they are not legally required.

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Warning signs: the person does not speak the local language and does not know their address; their passport is allegedly being held "by the boss"; they cannot set their own schedule; they appear fearful or intimidated; a third person is sitting in a car outside the hotel; the prices are unusually low and non-negotiable. Report any suspicious activity immediately: ACT212 (national 0800 212 212), FIZ Zurich (044 436 90 00) — anonymous reporting is possible. Turning a blind eye makes you an accomplice.

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Only with the sex worker’s express consent and only for private use (Art. 28 of the Swiss Civil Code / Art. 179quater of the Swiss Criminal Code — Violation of privacy or the private sphere through recording devices). Secret recordings or distribution are criminal offenses (up to 3 years’ imprisonment following the 2024 revision). In case of violation: civil and criminal consequences plus damages. Best practice: Put away your cell phone; trust is the foundation of the business.

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