EU AI Act and Switzerland: what applies now.

The EU regulates artificial intelligence in stages. Switzerland currently relies on existing law. What this means for companies.

Why this topic is on the table

With the AI Act, the EU has created the first comprehensive rulebook for artificial intelligence. It has applied since August 2024 and takes effect in stages: first prohibitions, then obligations for providers of foundation models, later the high-risk rules. Switzerland is taking a different path: in 2024 the Federal Council decided not to create a dedicated AI law for now, relying instead on existing law and targeted adjustments.

Four tiers, one principle

• Prohibited: AI with unacceptable risks, such as social scoring or manipulative systems.
• High risk: systems in areas such as HR, education, credit or critical infrastructure, with strict obligations.
• Transparency: chatbots and generative content must be recognisable.
• Minimal: most everyday applications remain voluntary.

What this means for Swiss companies

Anyone offering products or services in the EU can fall under the AI Act, regardless of where the company is based. In practice: record AI applications, classify the risk, keep documentation and ensure human oversight. In Switzerland, the Data Protection Act, labour law and sector-specific rules also apply.

The pragmatic path

• Create an inventory of all AI applications in the company.
• Assign each application to a risk tier.
• Document responsibilities, approvals and review steps.
• Train teams, rules only help if they are known.

Regulation does not replace attitude. But it makes visible where responsibility is needed.

Conclusion

The AI Act also affects Swiss companies operating in the EU. Those who keep a simple register today and clarify responsibilities will be faster, and more credible, later.