Smart Border Austria: Digital customs clearance for more efficient border processes

IIn cross-border freight transport, smooth and predictable customs processes are essential. With Smart Border Austria, procedures at border crossings between Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are being gradually digitalised.

The aim of the project is to replace the current paper-based routing slip procedure and make customs clearance more efficient, transparent and straightforward. For companies, this can mean fewer manual intermediate steps, more transparent processes and more predictable clearance at the border.

Gradual introduction in Vorarlberg

Smart Border Austria is being introduced gradually at border customs offices in Vorarlberg. Since 24 June 2026, processes at the Tisis border crossing have been handled digitally. Further border crossings will follow over the course of the year.

According to the current schedule, the existing routing slip procedure is expected to be fully discontinued in September 2026. Regular operation of Smart Border Austria across the entire area is planned from December 2026.

Digital support on the Swiss side

On the Swiss side, the Activ app provided by the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security supports the digital processing of transit procedures, among other things. Vehicle and transit data can be recorded before the border is crossed. This simplifies processes and can help make border crossings more efficient.

However, digitalisation does not necessarily mean that the process is completely paperless in every case. Depending on the customs procedure, certain documents must still accompany the transport.

Your benefits at a glance

The new digital processes are intended to provide the following benefits in particular:

• More efficient and predictable border clearance
• Fewer manual and paper-based process steps
• Improved traceability of customs processes
• Early detection of missing or incorrect information

Our customs department is actively addressing the new requirements, adapting the necessary processes accordingly and will continue to support our customers in ensuring reliable customs clearance.

Smart Border Austria therefore represents an important step towards modern and future-oriented customs procedures for the movement of goods between Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

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Smart Border_Austria 2026 -German
Infographic – German