How does the registration requirement for tattoo artists work in Switzerland?
Tattooing is officially permitted in Switzerland—but not without rules.
SinceMay 1, 2017, anyone offering tattooing or permanent makeup services has beenrequired to register.
It ensures that tattoo studios operate in a clean, safe, and transparent manner. Here, you can learn what the registration requirement entails, who it applies to, and why it ultimately protects you as a tattoo enthusiast.
🧾 What does “mandatory reporting” mean?
The reporting requirement is alegal obligation to registerfor anyone who offers tattooing or permanent makeup services—whether in their own studio, on a mobile basis, or as a guest artist.
The goal:
- Establishuniform hygiene standards,
- ensure quality,
- Avoid the risk of infection.
💡 It applies throughout Switzerland and makes the tattoo industry more professional and safer than ever before.
👩🎨 Who needs to sign up?
The reporting requirement applies to:
- All tattoo artists working in Switzerland,
- Tattoo studios,
- Mobile artists or private providers,
- Guest tattoo artists, if they work in unregistered studios.
The following are not affected:
- Tattoo artists who work exclusively in studios that are already registered (these are covered through the studio).
🧩 How does the registration process work?
Since responsibility lies with the cantons, there isno central platform—you should contact the relevant cantonal authority directly (usually the food inspection agency or public health department).
Typical procedure:
1️⃣ Fill out the form on your canton’s website,
2️⃣ Provide information about yourself, your location, and your services,
3️⃣ Submit documents or supporting evidence (e.g., hygiene training),
4️⃣ Wait for confirmation.
💡 Important: Each new location or change of canton requires a new registration.
🔍 Are tattoo studios inspected?
Yes—the cantonal authorities conductregular hygiene inspections.
They check:
- Cleanliness & Amenities,
- Storage & Disposal of Materials,
- Certificates of training,
- REACH-compliant paints.
Anyone who fails to register or violates the regulations risks receiving warnings, fines, or even a temporary closure.
🌿 Why this is also good for customers
The registration requirement ensurestransparency and trust. When you get a tattoo at a registered studio, you can be sure that:
- Weoperate in accordance with official hygiene standards,
- Onlytested dyesand sterile materials are used,
- and you'll receivereliable care recommendations.
For example, withSKULLTRESS™ Tattoo Balm & Oil—vegan, Swiss-made, and made with natural ingredients, perfect for sensitive skin after getting a tattoo.
💬 Clean Rules for Clean Tattoos
The registration requirement is not an obstacle—it is a mark of quality.
It ensures that tattoos in Switzerland are done under the best possible conditions.
✨In short:
- Mandatory for all tattoo artists in Switzerland since 2017.
- Registration with the relevant canton.
- Inspections ensure quality and hygiene.
SKULLTRESS™ Tattoo Care– the same Swiss-made precision, now for tattoo care.
Safety, trust, and quality—the foundation of every great tattoo experience. 🖤