We are UK residents and are going to fly into Geneva shortly and want to get a 1 year HalbTax Card and SwissPass. I understand that we have to do this in person with being non Swiss, German, etc.
Does anyone know what time time the SBB desk closes at Geneva Airport and would we be able to use the HalbTax / SwissPass card straight away?
The SwissPass website seems to suggest they will give you a temporary card until your real one gets delivered to your home address? Ideally we would like to use it straight away to get the train to Interlaken.
Yes, the card can be used as soon as the temporary card is issued.
When buying, please ask about ending the validity. A few years ago Swiss Rail introduced automatic renewal, (= your subscription is extended annually, so you are liable for each next year's fee) so if you're sure you want the service for one year only, then it's best to give notice of termination right away, as you purchase your card.
When you buy your Halbtax card you get a special receipt that doubles as a valid card until the real one arrives in the post, a few days later.
Regarding auto-renewal, this should be explained at the time of purchase. You get money off the Halbtax card if you opt for auto-renewal (around 20 Francs, if I recall correctly). If you want your Halbtax for 1 year only then of course you would not get the discount.
They do allow auto renewal for foreigners!! Ours is automatic here in Basel each year. But do need to be careful if your intent is actually to only use for a limited time. Enjoy!!!