Can the police demand money from me straight away for a fine or penalty?

Normally, money is only requested once a fine or penalty has been imposed, weeks or months after the check.

In the event of criminal proceedings, however, the police can confiscate money as security against possible subsequent fines, penalties or legal costs. We recommend that you refuse to let the police confiscate any money they find during an initial check before any criminal proceedings have started. In both cases, a lawyer can support you.

If you work without a licence, the police will demand money from you straight away in exchange for a receipt. This is because you don’t have an address in Switzerland.