Direct Payments (Direktzahlungen): Who Qualifies and What You Get

Direct Payments are annual financial transfers provided to farmers to support their operations and reward environmental stewardship. These payments are designed to ensure the financial viability of agricultural operations across Switzerland by linking financial support to specific farming practices.

👤Who it's for

This scheme is specifically for farmers who meet ecological performance requirements, known as ÖLN. To qualify, you must demonstrate that your farming methods align with these established environmental standards.

🎁What you get

You receive annual payments based on several key factors of your agricultural operation. These include the total area of land you manage, the number of livestock you keep on your farm, and the ecological services you provide to the land. These payments, known as Direktzahlungsbeiträge, are intended to support your farm's ongoing activities.

💰What it costs you

Receiving these payments requires a commitment to detailed record-keeping. You must provide strict documentation regarding your crop rotation cycles and your fertilizer use. This administrative requirement ensures that your farming practices remain transparent and compliant with the necessary environmental standards.

⚠️The catch to know

The most critical aspect of this scheme is the "Ecological Performance Proof." You must be aware that failing to meet these specific ecological performance requirements results in the total loss of your payments. It is not a partial deduction; the entire payment is at risk if the standards are not met.

📝How to apply

1. Verify that your farming practices meet all ecological performance requirements (ÖLN).
2. Set up a system to maintain strict documentation of your crop rotation and fertilizer use.
3. Prepare your records for review to prove your ecological performance.
4. Consult the official portal for specific submission instructions: https://www.blw.admin.ch