How to Apply for a Visa to Switzerland
Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, so most short-term visitors use the Schengen visa. Travellers from many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, but others need a visa. If you plan to work, study, or live in Switzerland long-term, you’ll need a National (Type D) visa and, in most cases, a residence permit after arrival.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main types, and how to apply.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of the EU/EEA, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and many others can enter Switzerland visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. - Visa required:
Nationals of India, China, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Nigeria, and most African and Asian countries must apply for a Schengen visa before travel. - Long-term stays:
Anyone — even visa-exempt travellers — staying more than 90 days (work, study, family reunion, residence) must apply for a National D visa.
✅ Check the official Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) site: https://www.sem.admin.ch
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) | Tourism, business, family visits | Up to 90 days in 180-day period |
| National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) | Work, study, residence | More than 90 days, usually 1 year renewable |
| Student Visa | Full-time studies | Duration of course |
| Work Visa / Permit B or L | Employment in Switzerland | 1 year renewable (L), 1–5 years (B) |
| Family Reunion Visa | Join spouse/parents/children | Long-term |
| Transit Visa | Passing through Switzerland | 24–48 hours if required |
3. Applying for a Schengen Visa (Tourism/Short Visits)
Step 1 — Determine Where to Apply
- Apply at the Swiss Embassy/Consulate or an authorised visa centre (e.g., VFS Global) in your country of residence.
- If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply where you’ll spend the most time or where you’ll enter first.
Step 2 — Book an Appointment
- Check the Swiss consulate or visa centre website.
- Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance (earlier in peak seasons).
Step 3 — Prepare Required Documents
Commonly required:
- Completed Schengen Visa Application Form
- Passport valid 3 months beyond return date, issued within last 10 years
- Two recent biometric photos (35×45 mm)
- Travel itinerary (flights, hotels)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
- Travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 across the Schengen Area
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, employment letter)
- Visa fee (currently €80 adults; €40 children 6–12)
💡 Visiting friends/family? You may need a formal invitation letter (attestation d’accueil or similar) and proof of your host’s legal status in Switzerland.
Step 4 — Submit Application & Biometrics
- Attend your appointment in person.
- Provide fingerprints and a digital photo (stored for 5 years in the Schengen VIS system).
Step 5 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Standard fee: €80 for adults, €40 for children (under 6 free).
- Some centres add service fees.
Step 6 — Wait for Processing
- Standard time: 15 calendar days, but up to 45 days if extra checks or busy season.
Step 7 — Collect Your Visa
- Check your visa sticker: validity dates, number of entries, and permitted stay.
4. Applying for a Long-Stay (National Type D) Visa
If you plan to live, work, or study in Switzerland:
- Secure Authorization First (if required)
- Work: Your Swiss employer applies for a work permit to the cantonal migration office.
- Study: Provide an acceptance letter from a Swiss school/university and proof of sufficient funds.
- Family Reunion: Provide marriage/birth certificates and proof of family relationship.
- Apply for the National D Visa
- Submit your completed long-stay visa form and documents to the Swiss Embassy/Consulate.
- Include: passport, biometrics, proof of income/funds, accommodation, and authorization (if applicable).
- After Arrival in Switzerland
- Register your address with the commune (local town hall) within 14 days.
- Apply for your residence permit (B, L, or C) at the cantonal migration office.
5. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Schengen short-stay (C) | €80 adults / €40 children 6–12 |
| National long-stay (D) | ~CHF 88–CHF 126 (varies by canton & nationality) |
| Transit visa | €80 |
Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
6. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: Up to 6 months before travel (minimum 3 weeks recommended).
- Travel insurance is mandatory: Must cover €30,000 across Schengen states.
- Show ties to your home country: Employment, property, or family proof reduces refusal risk.
- Document translations: Non-English/French/German/Italian documents may need official translation/legalisation.
- Work visas: Limited quotas apply; employers should begin applications months in advance.
- Student visas: Proof of ~CHF 21,000 per year is usually required for living expenses.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond return, with 2 blank pages
- Completed visa application & biometric photos
- Flight and hotel bookings or invitation letter
- Travel insurance €30,000 minimum
- Proof of funds & employment/study letters
- Criminal record certificate (if applying long-term)
- Appointment booked with Swiss consulate/VFS