Length of stay for aussies in Switzerland..?

Question

I understand an Aussie can be in Switzerland for 90 days with out needing a visa. I intend to be based in Switzerland (where I can crash at a friends place ) but frequently leave to travel around other parts of Europe. Does this mean I only have 90 days from when I first enter Switzerland, regardless of if I leave and return, or does the 90 days start again each time I enter Switzerland?

Some people have told me that they rarely stamp passports anyway so dont worry too much, but I want to do the right thing!!

Answer 1

Call the Swiss embassy in Australia. They can tell you best. Besides we pay them to answer questions like that ;-)

Answer 2

You gave yourself the answer! The 90 days count from the first time you enter the country - if they stamp the passport which the guys at border control rarely do. You should really not bother too much - make yourself "invisible" when you stay with your friends, disappear to the rest of Europe, come and go as you like. Remember that Europe has open borders, even Switzerland will become member of the Schengen states later in the year which means that there is no more passport control at all (spot checks excluded). Welcome to the land of the Helvets, mate!