How to send a letter in Switzerland

If you live in Switzerland, you will almost certainly need to send a letter at some point. The country is not yet fully reliant on electronic communications, and physical mail is still required for many procedures. This includes sending signed letters (such as the templates on this site), contracts, official forms, credit card applications, and more. Here’s how to do it correctly.

Choose the right envelope

The most practical choice is a C5 envelope without a window. It fits an A4 sheet folded in half and is suitable for most types of correspondence, whether personal or official. Make sure the envelope is not too thick, as this could move it into parcel pricing.

How to address your letter

Write the recipient’s address in the bottom-right quadrant of the envelope, more specifically, in the top-left area of that bottom-right quadrant (as shown in the photo below).

Use the following structure:

• First and last name
• Street name and number
• Postcode and town/city

Example:

Jean Dupont

Rue de la Mairie 5

1207 Genève

If the letter is being sent abroad, include the destination country in capital letters on the last line.

Add your own return address in the top-left corner of the envelope. This ensures the letter can be returned to you if undeliverable.

Buy the right stamp

Stamps are available:

• At post office counters
• Online through Swiss Post’s website or app (a digital stamp code can be written directly on the envelope)

There are two main options for domestic letters up to 100g:

• Priority: faster delivery, generally next working day
• Economy: more affordable, with slightly slower delivery

To calculate postage costs based on format, weight, and destination, you can use the official Swiss Post price calculator.

Place the stamp (or write the digital code) in the top-right corner of the envelope.

How to mail your letter

You can send your letter by:

• Dropping it into any yellow Swiss Post mailbox
• Handing it in at a post office counter

Mailboxes display the final collection time of the day. Try to post before this to avoid delays.

For official documents or important forms, use registered mail. This service can only be done at the post office and usually costs around 6-7 CHF. It includes tracking and requires the recipient’s signature upon delivery.

Quick recap

1. Use a C5 envelope without a window.
2. Write the recipient’s address in the top-left of the bottom-right quadrant.
3. Add your return address in the top-left corner.
4. Place a stamp (or digital code) in the top-right corner.
5. Drop the letter in a mailbox or go to the post office.