Liechtenstein
About Liechtenstein
| Currency | Swiss franc (CHF) |
| Language | German |
| Capital | Vaduz |
The Principality of Liechtenstein is located in Central Europe, bordered by Austria and Switzerland. With a population of about 37,000 people, Liechtenstein is one of the smallest independent nations in Europe. Liechtenstein is a hereditary constitutional monarchy, with a prince currently serving as head of state. A parliamentary system has been established, with a prime minister serving as head of government. The Prince maintains substantial political authority, which includes the right to veto laws adopted by parliament.
Prior to the end of World War I, Liechtenstein was tied closely to the Austria-Hungary empire. Following the end of World War II, Liechtenstein was in dire financial straits. In the decades that followed, Liechtenstein utilized a low corporate tax rate to attract companies to invest and set up within the its borders. Liechtenstein is now one of the wealthiest nations in the world, on a per capita basis. The country has a strong financial sector located in the capital of Vaduz.
Liechtenstein is packed with cycling and hiking trails, offering travellers an opportunity to explore small, intimate villages and discover spectacular alpine views. Because it is the only country located entirely in the alps, skiing is a major winter sport and an attraction for travellers.
Recommended Vaccinations For Liechtenstein
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Although there is a low risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Although there is a low risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
The rabies vaccination is recommended for those travellers whose activities or work may bring them into contact with bats.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine
Travellers who plan to visit Liechtenstein during early spring to late autumn and hike or camp in rural or forested areas that provide a habitat for the ticks that carry the virus should consider obtaining this vaccine.
Recommended Medications For Liechtenstein
There are no recommendations for Liechtenstein at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Liechtenstein
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a low risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Liechtenstein through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a low risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Liechtenstein.
For Some Travellers
Measles
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with an infected person.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Rabies
Rabies has not been reported in Liechtenstein and is considered a low risk for travellers, However, it may occur in bats.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis
There is a risk of Tick-borne Encephalitis in all areas of this country. The transmission season varies, however, ticks are most active during early spring to late autumn.
Safety & Security in Liechtenstein
Personal Safety
Liechtenstein has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs but remains rare. Police enforce laws strictly. You face heavy fines for littering. In the resort of Malbun, picking flowers from protected areas brings fines of 500 Swiss Francs. Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including long jail sentences and heavy fines. Cannabis possession leads to prosecution. Police strictly enforce road regulations. Traffic violations can result in heavy fines and possible prison sentences. The country maintains about 160 police officers. Residents reportedly feel safe enough that many don’t lock their doors. Serious crimes are extremely uncommon. Sentences exceeding two years get transferred to Austrian facilities.
Extreme Violence
Liechtenstein has no recent history of terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out but remain unlikely. Attacks could occur in places visited by foreign nationals. The country has no military since 1868. Violent crime is virtually non existent. Homicide rates remain extremely low. The country’s small size and stable society contribute to safety. Organized crime exists at minimal levels. Small scale human trafficking occurs but remains limited. Arms trafficking is small to non existent. Drug markets remain undeveloped. Cannabis is the most consumed drug but mostly involves personal use. Local demand for cocaine is rising among youth through online purchases. Cyber attacks have targeted companies and institutions in the past. Financial crime remains a concern due to the banking sector. No incidents of terrorism have occurred in recent years. The National Police maintain security with about 160 officers. A paramilitary Security Corps of 38 members can respond to emergencies.
Political Unrest
Political unrest is extremely rare. Liechtenstein maintains a stable constitutional monarchy. Demonstrations occur infrequently. The country has low political tensions. Public protests remain uncommon. A demonstration in 1992 during a constitutional crisis drew approximately 2,000 people. This remains the largest political demonstration in recent history. Protests related to COVID 19 restrictions occurred between 2021 and 2023. Media and journalists faced verbal attacks during these demonstrations. The government maintains strong political stability. Parliamentary elections occur peacefully. International observers consider elections credible. The country has a two party system with coalition governments. Political changes happen through democratic processes. No significant political violence has occurred. The small population and close knit society contribute to stability. Freedom of assembly is constitutionally guaranteed. Authorities grant approval for demonstrations. Human rights and civil liberties are respected. The prince holds significant governmental power but exercises it within constitutional limits.
Areas To Avoid
Liechtenstein has no dangerous areas. The entire country maintains very low crime rates. All municipalities are safe for visitors. The capital Vaduz and largest city Schaan present no safety concerns. Mountain areas pose natural hazards rather than security risks. Alpine regions carry risks from avalanches, snowdrifts, and sudden weather changes. These dangers exist year round but increase in winter. Malbun is a ski resort with strict environmental protection rules. Off piste skiing is highly dangerous. Mountain hiking requires proper preparation. Check weather conditions and trail status with authorities before hiking. Inform someone of your plans. Conditions change rapidly in alpine areas. Flash floods and mudslides occur in mountainous regions. Ticks are present in forested areas during summer. They transmit Lyme disease and tick borne encephalitis. Consider vaccination if spending time outdoors. No urban areas require special caution. Public spaces are well lit and safe at night. The country has no slums or high crime neighborhoods.