Europe
Switzerland
UAS.gate — framework aligned with the EASA model
Switzerland, despite not being an EU member, has adopted a framework very similar to the European one through the FOCA. Registration and certificates are managed on the UAS.gate portal.
Operator registration mandatory for drones ≥250 g under Swiss rules.
Online A1/A3 certificate; A2 for reduced distances from people.
Zones to avoid
No-fly zones usually follow the same recurring categories (airports, military sites, protected areas, historic centers). For this country: Areas near airports, borders, military installations and many protected alpine zones carry restrictions: always check the official drone map.
What isn't 100% confirmed yet
The old official URL and the UAS.gate portal were both unreachable in this check (dead links): only the main link was updated. The exact name and address of the current registration portal (UAS.gate or dLIS) still needs re-confirming on bazl.admin.ch/it/droni before republishing a direct link.
Last checked: 2026-09
Go deeper
Why registration exists
Operator registration exists for accountability: if a drone causes an incident or enters a restricted zone, the authority needs to be able to trace it back to whoever was flying it. You usually get an identification number (operator ID) to physically attach to the drone, valid for every drone the same person owns. The cost is often minimal or free, and it applies to visiting tourists too, not just residents. For Switzerland, the official reference remains FOCA — Federal Office of Civil Aviation. Operator registration mandatory for drones ≥250 g under Swiss rules.
How this usually works
In most systems, the pilot license (or "certificate") is a theory exam, often entirely online and free, covering the basics: airspace, safety distances, privacy. It's nothing like a driving license, but it's still a legal requirement. Most systems have more than one level: an entry-level exam for flights further from people and built-up areas, and a more thorough one if you want to fly closer. The certificate is usually valid for a few years before it needs renewing. The exam and certificate are handled by FOCA — Federal Office of Civil Aviation. Online A1/A3 certificate; A2 for reduced distances from people.
Informational content, not legal advice. Zones and rules change constantly: always check the country's official website before every flight.