In general, a producer or service provider does not require any authorisation to use the indication of source "Switzerland". Anyone may use an indication of source for commercial purposes, provided that they fulfil the legally defined criteria for determining origin. However, the use of inaccurate indications of source, or designations which could be mistaken for an incorrect indication of source, is prohibited.

The legally defined criteria for determining origin take the specific type of goods into account and divide goods into three categories: natural products, foodstuffs and industrial products. There is also an additional category for services.