Role of ESTI
The Federal Inspectorate for Heavy Current Installations (ESTI) is the competent authority for recognition of foreign electrotechnical professional qualifications where Swiss electrical-installation law requires a regulated qualification or authorisation. For permanent establishment, ESTI examines whether the foreign qualification is equivalent to the Swiss qualification required for the intended activity.
Where substantial differences remain, compensatory measures may be required. For qualifying temporary services from EU/EFTA states of up to 90 working days per calendar year, the procedure starts through the SBFI notification system rather than an ordinary ESTI recognition application.
Main professions and procedures
Typical ESTI matters include in particular:
- Electrical installers and other regulated electrotechnical activities
- Recognition of foreign electrotechnical training for installation authorisations
- Restricted installation authorisations under the Low-Voltage Electrical Installations Ordinance
- Assessment of substantial differences and compensatory measures
- Coordination with the SBFI procedure for temporary EU/EFTA services
The exact route depends on the intended electrical activity, the required Swiss authorisation and whether the activity is permanent or temporary.