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Switzerland

Switzerland

Get to know the visa process

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Type of stay

Not sure what you’ll need? Explore the typical requirements for each Swiss visa we assist with.

Who it's for

It might be for you, if you are:

  • Taking a holiday in Switzerland
  • Visiting friends or family
  • Participating in a sports or cultural event

What you typically need

  • A valid travel document
  • An ICAO-compliant ID photo
  • Proof of your itinerary and accommodation
  • Evidence of sufficient financial resources and your intent to return home at the end of your trip
  • Travel medical insurance for the full duration of your stay

Check the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) website for the full list of requirements.

Fees

Switzerland generally charges standard Schengen visa application fees, but fees may vary in certain cases. Check the FDFA website for more information.

Visa type Tourism

Who it's for

It might be for you if you are planning to travel to Switzerland for business purposes, such as:

  • Business meetings, conferences or trade fairs
  • Negotiations or contract signings
  • Site visits or professional consultations

What you typically need

  • A valid travel document
  • An ICAO-compliant ID photo
  • Proof of your itinerary and accommodation
  • An invitation letter from a Swiss company, or confirmation of a conference / trade fair registration
  • Travel medical insurance for the full duration of your stay
  • Evidence of your intention to return home at the end of your trip

Check the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) website for the full list of requirements.

Fees

Switzerland generally charges standard Schengen visa application fees, but fees may vary in certain cases. Check the FDFA website for more information.

Visa type Business

Who it's for

It might be for you if you are:

  • Attending a summer school or language course in Switzerland (< 90 days)
  • Taking part in a short exchange programme
  • Participating in a seminar or research visit

For studies of more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a Swiss national visa (type D).

What you typically need

  • A valid travel document
  • An ICAO-compliant ID photo
  • Proof of enrolment in a course or programme
  • Evidence of sufficient financial resources
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Travel medical insurance for the full duration of your stay

For studies of more than 90 days, you will also need:

  • A curriculum vitae
  • Certificates of previous diplomas
  • A motivation letter outlining the purpose and duration of your studies

Check the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) website for the full list of requirements.

Fees

Switzerland generally charges standard Schengen visa application fees, but fees may vary in certain cases. Check theFDFA website for more information.

Visa type student cropped
At Travelisa, we guide you through the application process, step by step.
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Application Steps

Learn the key steps in the Swiss visa process and see where Travelisa can support you along the way.

Step 1
Check if you need a visa

Check Switzerland’s online visa system to see if you need a visa.

Not everyone needs a visa to travel to Switzerland - but if you do, we'll guide you from the start.

Step 2
Choose your visa type

Select the visa that matches your reason for travel: tourism, business or study.

Travelisa supports all three and will help you understand what’s required for each one.

Step 3
Prepare your supporting documents

Begin collecting the necessary information and supporting documents for your application.

This is where Travelisa comes in. Based on your visa type, nationality and destination, we’ll tell you exactly what documents you need – no guesswork.

Step 4
Complete your application form

Download your visa application form on the official website. Complete your form with your personal details, travel plans, financial information and reason for visiting.

If you’re using Travelisa, we’ll have everything ready for you. Your application will be prepared, pre-filled and reviewed — either by our automated tools or by a visa expert, depending on the service you choose. By default, we generate the official Swiss visa form for you, ready to print and sign before your appointment.

Step 5
Book your appointment

After submitting your application, you’ll need to book an appointment at a Swiss consulate or visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and photo (biometrics). This step is mandatory before your application can be processed.

You can apply for a visa up to six months before you plan to travel, so it’s a good idea to book your appointment as early as possible. This is especially true during busy periods, such as the holiday season, when it can take longer to find an available appointment.

If you're using Travelisa, you’ll receive a set of clear, step-by-step instructions after submission – including where to go, what to bring and how to prepare. No surprises, no confusion.

Step 6
Submit your application & biometrics

Attend your appointment, where you will submit your application and supporting documents, and carry out your biometric enrolment.

Step 7
Wait for your decision

After you have submitted your visa application, it will be reviewed by the local Swiss embassy or consulate.

Most decisions on short-stay visas are made within about 15 days. Check the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) website for guidance on processing times.

There’s nothing more to do at this stage – just keep an eye on your inbox for updates. If you’ve used Travelisa, you can feel confident knowing your application was submitted correctly and completely.

Note: Travelisa provides assistance with preparing your visa application. The final decision on your visa is made by the consular authorities.

Choose your service

If you'd rather focus on planning your trip and leave the complex
requirements to us, we’re here to help. Whether it’s for tourism, business or
study, choose the level of support that suits you:

Self-Managed Visa Assist

30€

Price Includes VAT
Handle the process with support from our dedicated AI tool.
  • AI-powered document check
  • Visa account creation on government portal
  • Form pre-fill from your supporting documents
  • Guidance on the remaining
steps in the process
Go to: Explore self-managed

Expert Visa Assist

50€

Price Includes VAT
Work with an expert agent to prepare your application.
  • Document check by visa expert
  • Visa account creation on government portal
  • Form completion & submission (opt-out available)
  • Ongoing support via email and scheduled calls
Go to: Explore Expert Assist

Get Started