Switzerland
Visa information

Do I need a visa?

The regulations in place for entering Switzerland depend on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries are subject to different rules from citizens of other countries. Furthermore, certain countries are exempt from having to acquire a Swiss Schengen visa.

You will not require a visa to visit Switzerland if you are:

• A national of one of the 26 European Schengen-area countries.
• A national of a European Union (EU) member state or European Economic Area (EEA).

Follow this link to find out what visa regulations apply to citizens of your country.

Types of visas available

There are two types of visas, depending on the purpose of your proposed stay in Switzerland.

• SCHENGEN VISA (TYPE C):
  This visa will allow you to stay in Switzerland and other Schengen area countries for a period of up to 90 days, within a 180-day period. Purpose of the visit: tourism, visiting friends or family, attending a conference or event, short-term language studies, etc.
• NATIONAL VISA (TYPE D):
  This type of visa applies to longer-term stays in Switzerland (more than 90 days). This visa is subject to approval from the cantonal migration authority. Purpose for the visit: marriage in Switzerland, long-term studies, etc.

Where to apply for a Swiss visa

• The visa application process may vary, depending on your place of residence. Visa application may be done:
• By completing an online visa application here
• Directly, at a Swiss embassy consulate or embassy
• At an external visa service provider

What documents are required for Visa Application?

• Completed Swiss visa application form
• 2 passport photos
• Your passport (with at least 2 blank pages and valid for 3+ months after your return date)
• Copies of previous Swiss visas
• Schengen visa travel insurance (min. coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies)
• Flight itinerary (round-trip)
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of civil status
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• A cover letter stating your reason for applying to visit, planned arrival and departure dates, and other relevant details.
• Additional documents are required for minors, students, and those applying to visit Switzerland for work or business.

Visa Costs

SCHENGEN SHORT-TERM VISA CATEGORY	EURO	UK £	US $
Adult	80	68	96
Children (6-12 years)	40	34	48
Children (6 and younger)	No charge	No charge	No charge
Students & researchers	No charge	No charge	No charge
Family member/s of EU nationals	No charge	No charge	No charge
Diplomats and officials	No charge	No charge	No charge

 

Coronavirus: Switzerland Entry Restrictions

No mandatory quarantine obligations are in place for travelers who are nationals within the Schengen area.

Visitors from outside the Schengen area are subject to certain regulations.

Before traveling, it is essential to check with your national authorities for updated travel conditions.

All vaccinated, tested, or recovered entrants must complete a SwissPLF entry form, Unvaccinated and unrecovered travelers must present two negative PCR test results: one when entering Switzerland, and another after four to seven days.