Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) Discounts: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how the Halbtax discount card works, who can get it, and what you need to remember to keep your travel savings active.
The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) provides discount programs designed to make public transport more affordable for those living in Switzerland. These discounts allow you to access travel at significantly reduced rates through a specific travel card.
Who it's for
This scheme is designed for all residents. If you live in the country, you are eligible to apply for these travel benefits to help manage your transportation costs.
What you get
The primary benefit of this scheme is the half-fare travel card, which is known by several names depending on the local language, such as Halbtax in German or Demi-tarif. Once you have this card, you can purchase tickets for various journeys at half the standard price, helping you navigate the country more economically.
What it costs you
To access these reduced rates, you must pay an annual subscription fee. This is a recurring cost that covers the privilege of using the half-fare travel card for the duration of your subscription period.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that this is not a one-time purchase. You must renew your subscription annually to ensure your discounts remain active and valid for your travels.
How to apply
- Go to the official SBB website to view the available options.
- Locate the section for travel cards to find the Halbtax or Demi-tarif.
- Follow the digital registration steps required by the provider.
- Pay the necessary subscription fee to activate your card.