Liechtenstein: Travel Requirements, Health & Medical Insurance
Liechtenstein, with just 160 km² of territory, has been a full member of the Schengen Area since 2011 despite not belonging to the European Union, so whether you need a short-stay visa depends on your passport, just as it does elsewhere in the Schengen bloc. The country has no international airport of its own: the usual way in is by road or train from Zurich, Switzerland, a little over an hour away.
The currency is the Swiss franc (CHF), not the euro, and the official language is German. The general emergency number is 112.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Liechtenstein has been a full member of the Schengen Area since 2011, even though it isn't part of the European Union; whether you need a short-stay visa depends on your passport.
Health & travel insurance: Healthcare is excellent but very expensive for anyone without coverage, similar to Switzerland; travel insurance with broad medical coverage is recommended.
Visa and Entry Requirements
As a Schengen member, visa-exempt nationalities can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period, counting time spent anywhere in the Schengen Area. Travelers who need a visa must apply for it just as they would for any other Schengen country.
- Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.
- A valid Schengen visa if your nationality requires one.
- No airport of its own: plan your arrival via Zurich.
Health, Hospitals, and Medical Insurance
Healthcare in Liechtenstein is on par with Switzerland, with well-equipped hospitals in Vaduz, but costs for anyone without reciprocal coverage can be very high.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in Liechtenstein; the code MEDALLOADV2023 gives you a discount when you get a quote for the plan.
Transport and Currency
The currency is the Swiss franc (CHF), although some shops also accept euros, with change given in francs. Buses connect Vaduz well with the rest of the country and with the Swiss train station in Sargans.
When to Travel
Summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking in the Alps, while winter draws skiers to the Malbun resort. Spring and autumn offer green landscapes with fewer tourists.
Travel checklist for Liechtenstein
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Liechtenstein.
- Check the visa requirement for Liechtenstein based on your passport: Liechtenstein has been a full member of the Schengen Area since 2011, even though it isn't part of the European Union; whether you need a short-stay visa depends on your passport.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: Healthcare is excellent but very expensive for anyone without coverage, similar to Switzerland; travel insurance with broad medical coverage is recommended.
- Save Liechtenstein's emergency number: 112 (también 117 policía, 118 bomberos y 144 ambulancia), along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Franco suizo (CHF)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Liechtenstein a Schengen country?
Yes, it has been a full member of the Schengen Area since 2011, even though it doesn't belong to the European Union.
What is the emergency number in Liechtenstein?
112 works as the general number, along with specific lines such as 144 for ambulances.
How do you get to Liechtenstein without its own airport?
By road or train from Zurich, Switzerland, a trip of just over an hour.
What currency should I use in Liechtenstein?
The Swiss franc (CHF), not the euro, despite being part of the Schengen Area.
