switzerland tourist visa application form pdf

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Visa Application Form

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State Secretariat for Migration SEM

Main navigation, state secretariat for migration.

• Entry, residence & working

Forms to download and fill out online:

Schengen visa application form

For short-term stays in the Schengen area of *up to three months* in a six months period for tourist purposes, visits, etc.

• Arabic – French (PDF, 4 MB, 09.08.2020)
• Chinese – French (PDF, 1 MB, 09.08.2020)
• English – German (PDF, 906 kB, 26.07.2020)
• Portuguese – French (PDF, 940 kB, 26.07.2020)
• Russian – German (PDF, 979 kB, 26.07.2020)
• Spanish – French (PDF, 1005 kB, 26.07.2020)
• Turkish – German (PDF, 2 MB, 09.08.2020)
• Italian – German (PDF, 919 kB, 26.07.2020)

National (type D) visa application form

For long-term stays (more than three months) in Switzerland subject to authorization (e.g. gainful employment, familiy reunification).

• German – Italian (PDF, 335 kB, 14.09.2018)
• English – German (PDF, 334 kB, 14.09.2018)
• French – English (PDF, 354 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Arabic – French (PDF, 1 MB, 14.09.2018)
• Chinese (simplified) – French (PDF, 639 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Chinese (traditional) – French (PDF, 480 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Russian – German (PDF, 388 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Spanish – French (PDF, 336 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Portuguese – French (PDF, 334 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Turkish – German (PDF, 365 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Serbian – German (PDF, 330 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Albanian – German (PDF, 234 kB, 14.09.2018)
• Arabic – English (PDF, 368 kB, 05.03.2021)
• Indonesian – German (PDF, 238 kB, 14.09.2018)

Additional visa application forms in local languages are available on the websites of Swiss representations abroad.

(Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA)

Last modification 24.07.2020

Top of page

Who needs a visa? Open accordion

Citizens of EU and EFTA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) member states do not require a visa to enter Switzerland.

If you come from another country, whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality. The website of the State Secretariat for Migration provides you with an overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality .

Switzerland belongs to the Schengen Area*. If you have a visa issued by a Schengen member state, you generally do not require an additional tourist visa to enter Switzerland or any other Schengen country. Your stay must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.

If you have one of the following Swiss residence permits, you do not require a visa to enter Switzerland or another Schengen country for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies regardless of your nationality:

B permit (residence permit)

C permit (settlement permit)

L permit (short-term residence permit)

Ci permit (resident permit with gainful employment)

Legitimation card issued by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

*The 27 Schengen member states are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.

How can I obtain a visa? Open accordion

Complete a form.

There two types of visa application form .

Schengen visa for up to 90 days (Type C): This type of visa is for a stay of up to 90 days, for example for tourist purposes, to study or to participate in a cultural or sporting event. It is valid for travel throughout the Schengen Area.

If you wish to work in Switzerland, you must additionally apply for a work permit .

Long-stay visa for more than 90 days (Type D): If you wish to stay for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a Type D visa.

Submitting a visa application

You must submit a visa application to a Swiss consulate or embassy , preferably at least two months but no longer than six months before you travel.

In certain cases, you can submit your application via the online visa system .

To travel abroad from Switzerland, you must submit your visa application to the consulate or embassy of the appropriate country in Switzerland.

Additional documents

Depending on your country of origin, the Swiss consulate or embassy where you submit your visa application may request additional documents, even if you are only applying for a tourist visa. The documents may include:

Letter of invitation: The letter must be in German, French or Italian and confirm that your Swiss host (private individual or company) is expecting you. It must contain information on the length of and reason for your stay, your personal data (first name(s), surname, date of birth, nationality) and the personal data of your host. The letter must be dated and signed by your host. Further information on the letter of invitation is available in the SEM factsheet .

Declaration of sponsorship: If the Swiss consulate or embassy doubts you have sufficient financial means for your stay in Switzerland, you may have to submit a declaration of sponsorship before you are granted a visa. In this declaration, your host must confirm that they will pay for uncovered costs up to a maximum of CHF 30,000. Your host must sign the declaration and deposit it with the communal authority of his or her place of residence or with the cantonal migration authority. Further information on the declaration of sponsorship is available on the SEM website .

Travel health insurance For a short-term visa (maximum of 90 days) you must prove that you have travel health insurance that covers costs of up to EUR 30,000. The insurance policy must be with an insurance company that is recognised by the consulate or embassy processing your visa application

How much does a visa cost? Open accordion

A visa for an adult costs EUR 80.

A visa for a child (6 to 12 years) costs EUR 40.

Visas for children under 6 are free of charge.

In certain cases, the cost of a visa may be lowered or lifted completely. The cost of a long-stay visa for more than 90 days (Type D) may be increased by 50%.

What to do if you lose your travel document Open accordion

If you lose your travel document, you must report the loss immediately to the nearest police station (web page in German, French and Italian) where you are staying. You can speed up the procedure by providing a copy of your travel document.

A leaflet  describes what to do if you lose your travel document in Switzerland and how to replace your visa.

Further information Open accordion

State Secretariat for Migration SEM: Overview of ID and visa provisions according to nationality .

Information on tourist visas:  Foreign representations in Switzerland .

Tourist visa for Switzerland:  List of Swiss representations abroad (in French and German)

State Secretariat for Migration:  Frequently asked questions about entering Switzerland

Get started

Unlocking Switzerland: Checking Your Tourist Visa Eligibility

Last Update: 13-02-2024

Aditya Jain

Switzerland

⚡quick summary, switzerland tourist visa for indians, table of contents, introduction, what is a switzerland tourist visa.

Do I Need to Apply for a Tourist Visa to Visit Switzerland?

Types of Visas for Switzerland

Where can i apply for a tourist visa switzerland from india, how long is the switzerland tourist visa valid for.

Planning a trip to Switzerland, the land of picturesque landscapes and cultural marvels? Before you embark on your journey, it's crucial to understand the Switzerland tourist visa requirements and application process. 

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Switzerland tourist visa, including eligibility criteria, visa types, application procedures, and essential documents. 

Whether you're eager to explore Swiss Alps, indulge in Swiss chocolate, or immerse yourself in Swiss culture, this guide will ensure your visa application journey is smooth and stress-free.

If you have specific questions or need assistance, our dedicated team is ready to help. Feel free to contact us at +91 73148 52914 or reach out on WhatsApp .

A Switzerland Tourist Visa is a travel document issued to individuals intending to visit Switzerland for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, exploring Swiss culture, or visiting friends and family.

Yes, Indian citizens are required to obtain a tourist visa before travelling to Switzerland for tourism purposes. Switzerland tourist visa allows you to stay in Switzerland for up to 90 days within a 180 day time frame.

• Schengen Visa (Short-Term Stay): This visa option is ideal for those planning a visit to Switzerland for a duration of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It caters to tourists, individuals visiting relatives or friends, short-term language students, conference participants, as well as those attending cultural or sporting events.
• National Visa (Long-Term Stay): For travelers aiming to stay in Switzerland beyond 90 days within a 180-day period, the National Visa is the appropriate choice. Approval from the cantonal migration authority at the intended place of residence is necessary. This type of visa is suitable for long-term students, individuals seeking family reunification, and those planning to marry in Switzerland.
• Airport Transit Visa: Indian citizens are exempted from obtaining an airport transit visa when transiting through Switzerland. You can comfortably pass through Swiss airports and remain within the international transit area without the need for a visa.
• Labour/Work Permits: Authorization from the competent cantonal authority is mandatory for the entry of foreign workers into Switzerland. The issuance of entry visas, such as the Switzerland business visa , is contingent upon the necessary authorizations being granted.

Apply for Switzerland Visa through Teleport

Teleport collaborates with the embassy to ensure timely and hassle-free visa processing. To initiate your Switzerland visa application, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Initiate Your Application: Visit Teleport's website for Switzerland visa applications . Kickstart your Switzerland tourist visa application by clicking on 'Begin Application.' Choose the visa category (tourist or business) that aligns with your travel intentions. This streamlined process is specifically designed to facilitate Switzerland visa for Indians .
• Step 2: Complete Details and Make Payment: Upload scanned copies of both the front and back pages of your passport. Teleport offers an option for automatic data entry or manual input of your details. Proceed with the visa fee payment via Teleport, choosing between full or partial upfront payment.
• Step 3: Compile Required Documents: Teleport's relationship manager will guide you in gathering all essential documents necessary for your Switzerland visa application.
• Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment: Teleport's relationship manager will secure an appointment on your behalf at the VFS visa application centre according to your preferred location and dates.
• Step 5: Attend VFS Centre and Provide Biometrics: Attend your scheduled appointment at the nearby VFS Visa Application Centre. There, you'll submit your biometrics and the required documentation.

After your appointment, opt for either courier delivery of your passport to your location or choose to collect it personally from the visa centre.

Apply for Switzerland Visa at VFS Global Visa Application Centre in India

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Category: Begin by identifying the appropriate visa type for your trip and ensure you fulfil the eligibility criteria. Familiarise yourself with the required documents, estimated Switzerland tourist visa processing time, and applicable Switzerland tourist visa price. If your documents are not in English, consider translating them before submission.

Step 2: Collect Necessary Documents: Ensure you have all the required documents for a Switzerland visa. Refer to the document checklist for comprehensive guidance.

Step 3: Start Your Application: When ready, download the Visa Application Form 

Complete the visa application form, print it, and take it to the Visa Application Centre for submission.

You have the flexibility to submit your application in person, via a representative, or through an authorised travel agent.

The Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi handles visa applications and does not accept applications by mail.

Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment: Upon submitting your visa application, proceed to book an appointment at the VFS Visa Application Centre for biometric data collection, including fingerprints and a photograph.

Upon scheduling the appointment, you'll receive a confirmation email along with your appointment letter.

If applying as a family or group, ensure each member schedules their individual appointments.

Step 5: Make Payment: If online payment of service fees isn't feasible, you'll be required to pay the service fees at the Visa Application Centre along with the visa fees during your appointment.

Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre: You must personally submit your fully completed visa application form and documents at one of the designated Visa Application Centers across India, including but not limited to:

Step 7: Monitor Your Application: If you submitted your application at a VFS visa application centre, use the VFS online application tracking tool to monitor your application's progress. Simply input the following details:

• The reference number issued to you.
• Your date of birth

Step 8: Receive Your Visa: Once a decision is made on your visa application, collect your documents and passport from the Visa Application Centre. Alternatively, if you selected courier service during submission, your documents will be returned to you via the chosen courier service.

A Switzerland tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, the embassy may decide to grant a longer validity of up to 6 months (180 days), but this isn't guaranteed for everyone.

Unlocking the beauty of Switzerland begins with obtaining the right tourist visa. With this guide, you now have a clear understanding of the visa eligibility criteria, application procedures, and essential documents required for your Switzerland adventure. 

Whether you choose to apply through Teleport or the VFS Global Visa Application Centre, ensure you follow the steps diligently and prepare all necessary documentation. 

With your Switzerland tourist visa in hand, get ready to experience the charm and wonder of this Alpine paradise to the fullest. 

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team is prepared to offer guidance and support.

You can reach us at +91 73148 52914 or contact us on WhatsApp .

Safe travels and enjoy your Swiss adventure!

Do I need a tourist visa for Switzerland?

What are the different types of Switzerland Tourist Visas available for Indians?

What documents are essential for a Switzerland Tourist Visa application?

Can I book my flight and accommodation before obtaining the visa?

How much does a Switzerland Tourist Visa cost for Indians?

What is the processing time for a Switzerland Tourist Visa?

Is a visa interview required for a Switzerland Tourist Visa?

Can I use the Use Teleport platform for my Switzerland Tourist Visa application?

Get your visa by undefined, if you apply today .

Stay duration, visa validity.

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Home → Apply Visa → Visa Type

Visa Information

Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.

Short Stay Visa

Short Stay visa entitles an applicant, who does not hold a residence permit, to stay in Switzerland for an uninterrupted period or a total of successive periods of stays that does not exceed 90 days in every six months since the date of first entry. Switzerland is one of the 26 European countries forming the Schengen Area which have no border controls between them.

In case of transit visas, the duration is authorized in accordance with the period of stay required for the transit.

After scrutinizing the visa application by Embassy, your application may have the following

• Visa applied for is granted.
• Further documentation is requested.
• Applicant is requested to appear for a personal interview.
• The application is rejected.

Schengen Common Information

Short stay visa applications cannot be submitted more than 180 days in advance before the proposed date of travel.

However, they must be submitted at least 15 calendar days prior to the proposed date of travel. VFS Global is the outsourcing office responsible for the reception and release of passports for short stay visa applications.

The Embassy of Switzerland also informs the applicants that direct and personal application for short stay visas can be done at the Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi only with a prior appointment. This appointment must be requested directly to the Embassy of Switzerland only via email. Requests for appointments over the telephone will not be entertained. Applicants must request the respective appointment at least one month before the proposed date of travel.

“Important information for applications lodged in India: as of 1 February 2018, a travel medical insurance will be accepted only if it is issued by one of the insurance companies mentioned in the list of approved companies. Please read carefully the following document: “ List of approved Indian insurance companies ” As per instruction received from the Embassy of Switzerland, Applicant needs to sign on “ Declaration of Consent Courier ”. Representative or travel agent must bring signed declaration at the time of submission.

Special Instructions

• Application can be submitted only 180 days prior to the date of departure.
• From May 1, 2010 only passports issued within the previous ten (10) years will be accepted.
• Passport must have at least two blank pages
• Passport should be valid for at least three (3) months longer than the intended stay.
• Handwritten or not machine readable Indian passports issued after 01/04/2010 are not accepted
• Indian passports that contain a manual entry (observation) made after 01 April 2010 where the biographical data and (biodata: name, date of birth, place of birth, sex, spouses name, parents name, address) of the passport holder were changed are not accepted.
• Original previous passport where the old name is mentioned
• A copy from the previous passport data page where the old name is mentioned
• A copy of the advertisement of the change of name from the local daily newspaper

Students For More Than 90 Days

Documents required, photo specifications, processing time, download form.

Application for a student visa has to be submitted personally at the Visa Section, Embassy of Switzerland, Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110 021. In order to schedule an appointment with the Embassy, please visit the following link and book an appointment online.

Please click here to book an appointment for Embassy of Switzerland New Delhi.

In general the application is free of charge; however, there might be some exceptions.

Please Note:

All VISA Fee and Service Charges are payable in Cash/Card/Online.

Note: Note: Each case is reviewed separately at the time of application, and no guarantee can be given that a VISA will be issued..

• The applicable VISA Fee in Indian Rupees is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
• Applicants shall be levied a Service Charge of INR 1850/-

Note- Levied Service fees have to be change in every category. (Short Stay & Long Stay)

• Optional Courier Service is available at INR 775/- .
• Optional SMS Service available at INR 390/- .
• Optional Premium Lounge Service is available at INR 3385/- .
• All VFS Service Charges are inclusive of Goods and Service Tax – SGST @ 9% and CGST @ 9%.
• In any case of refund for Online/POS Transactions, a bank charge will be deducted. The processing time for refund of Online Payment is 5 - 7 Working Days and POS Payment is 21 Working Days.
• VISA Fee for a written objection is INR 16,200/- .
• Auto Call Back Service is available at INR 345/- .
• Optional Courier Assurance Service is available at NR 1160/- .
• Prime Time Passport Collection Service is available at INR 604/- .
• Form Filling Service is available at INR 2915/- .
• Prime Time Appointment Service is available at INR 3450/- .
• Video Conferencing Service is available at INR 3020/- .

Travel medical insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, Click here

Note: We regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements Please provide two recent passport size pictures, not older than 6 months (size 35 – 40 mm in width, no copy or scanned picture). The photographs should be in colour and:

• Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear share quality and with the face in focus.
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
• Full face, non-smiling [without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background].
• Please stick the Photograph on the Visa Application Form.

For more details, please refer to: http://www.icao.int/Security/mrtd/Downloads/Technical%20Reports/Annex_A-Photograph_Guidelines.pdf Note : Please follow these instructions carefully. If photographs presented do not meet these requirements your application will be considered incomplete. Photo booth meeting these requirements is available at the centre.

Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 working days (starting from the time when the Embassy or Consulate received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy or Consulate. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least two weeks prior to date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.

Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.

Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here. Please note the instructions mentioned below while taking the printout. Download Visa Applications Forms

• Number of pages: 4
• You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.

It is mandatory to be filled by all applicants along with the application form.

To download a form:

• Click on the form link
• When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
• Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
• Select Save Target As from the list
• Save the form on your computer.

Work Permit For More Than 120 Days

From 20 January 2014 onwards, the procedure for obtaining an authorization for a visa to work must be initiated by the prospective employer through the channel of the competent cantonal authorities in Switzerland.

The cantonal procedure must be finalized and a positive decision must have been taken, before a visa request can be submitted at the Swiss representation abroad. In such cases a copy of the document:

• Ermächtigung zur visumerteilung (einreiseerlaubnis)
• Autorisation habilitant les représentations suisses à délivrer un visa
• Autorizzazione per il rilascio del visto d’entrata, alle rappresentanze svizzere

as issued by the canton should be submitted together with the original passport, two passport size photographs, not older than 6 months, a copy of the first and last page of the passport and the visa fee. A visa application form is not required.

From now on it is no longer possible to submit the initial request directly, or via VFS Global, to the Embassy, as it will be declared inadmissible.

Therefrom differing and exceptional procedures apply exclusively in the below mentioned cases:

Exceptions which do not fall under the rule of the contingency restrictions for professional groups regarding a National (D) visa relating to professional activities in Switzerland of more than 120 days:

• Cabaret Dancers
• Musicians and artists with a gainful activity (even unpaid work should be considered as such) of a duration of less than 8 months, painters, sculptors, authors, actors, movie or theatre related professionals, singers and stage interprets of all kinds, composers, disc-jockeys, circus artists and variety-artists etc. fall in this category
• Post graduates: doctoral candidates, post-doctoral students, academic guests, scholarship beneficiaries, MAS students, who intend to follow an activity within the frame of a complementary education at a recognized University or Higher Education institution.

For the above mentioned group of applicants the general conditions of the Swiss national directives apply, which means that in each case the application has to be submitted personally to the Embassy.

Please note:

• Applicants shall be levied a Service Charge of INR 1850/- and a Convenience Fees of INR 150/- payable for provision of multiple mode of payment.

“Applicants and travel agents are requested not to bind two or more passports with a stapler to avoid getting it damaged. Instead you may bind them together using rubber bands.”

• Number of pages:6
• Old Visa Application Form will not be accepted effective March 2nd 2020

Family Reunification

• direct submission of the request at the competent cantonal migration authority in Switzerland (time frame approx. 8 - 12 weeks) or
• submission of the application at the Swiss representation abroad - the application will be forwarded to the competent cantonal migration authorities for decision (time frame approx. 8 - 12 weeks)
• Children Under 6 Years are Exempt to pay VISA Fee.
• Video Conferencing Service is available at I NR 3020/- .

Please note as per instructions received from Embassy of Switzerland, personal Bank statement (last 3 months) with stamp/signature of Bank in original needs to be submitted on A4 size only

No other format will be accepted at the VFS Global counter.

Tourist visa application is applicable in case you are travelling for tourism purposes. This visa is given for travel period of less than 90 days

• All VISA Fee and Service Charges are payable in Cash/Card/Online. Note: Note: Each case is reviewed separately at the time of application, and no guarantee can be given that a VISA will be issued..
• Optional Courier Assurance Service is available at INR 1160/- .
• Walk in Without Appointment Service is available at INR 3105/- (Subject to Availability till further Notice).

Note: We regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements

Please provide three recent passport size pictures, not older than 6 months (size 35 – 40 mm in width, no copy or scanned picture). The photographs should be in colour and:

For more details, please refer to: http://www.icao.int/Security/mrtd/Downloads/Technical%20Reports/Annex_A-Photograph_Guidelines.pdf

Note : Please follow these instructions carefully. If photographs presented do not meet these requirements your application will be considered incomplete. Photo booth meeting these requirements is available at the centre.

Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.

Please note the instructions mentioned below while taking the printout.

Download Visa Applications Forms

Visitor visa application is applicable in case you are travelling for visiting family or friends. This visa is given for travel period of less than 90 days.

Please provide two recent passport size pictures, not older than 6 months (size 35 – 40 mm in width, no copy or scanned picture). The photographs should be in colour and:

• Number of pages: 6

Business visa application is applicable in case you are travelling for business purposes. This visa is given for travel period of less than 90 days This visa will be issued for business purpose only; for gainful professional activities (even if the work is not financially rewarded) you have to apply for a work permit.

Please note as per instructions received from Embassy of Switzerland, personal Bank statement (last 3 months) with stamp/signature of Bank in original needs to be submitted on A4 size only.

Incentive Tour

General Information for Organizers of the Incentive Tour

A presentation of the Incentive Tour as well as Study Tour xis compulsory at the Embassy and by appointment only. The presentation of the incentive tour should take place a minimum of one month before the travel date.

Kindly send your request for the appointment by Email to: ndh.visa@eda.admin.ch indicating: the name of the tour operator, the sponsoring company, the number of travellers and the travel dates.

Document required for Incentive Tour please click here .

Work Permit For Up To 120 Days In 12 Months

REQUEST FOR GAINFUL PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES UP TO 120 DAYS IN 12 MONTHS (this term is applicable even if the work is not financially rewarded):

There are the two following possibilities:

• direct submission of the request at the competent cantonal migration authority in Switzerland (usually through the employer, respectively the inviting company) (time frame approx. 8 - 12 weeks) or

Students For Up To 90 Days

This is applicable to students studying in Switzerland. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.

Please provide two recent passport size pictures, not older than 6 months (size 40 – 40 mm in width, no copy or scanned picture). The photographs should be in colour and:

Study or Professional training

Every applicant, including children/infants, has to submit his/her Schengen visa application in person and by appointment only on their appointment date, which needs to be booked online (see Schedule an Appointment ) by the applicant.

For Non EU citizens who are not sure whether a Schengen visa is required to travel to the Schengen Area, please click Do I need a visa? to find out.

Applicants, who intend to travel for the purpose of study or scientific research can apply for Study or Professional Training.

Invitation letter needs to confirm clearly the purpose of travel, if not, applicant will need to apply as Tourist.

Eligibility

Applicant must at least meet the following criteria in order to be eligible to submit a Schengen visa application:

• holding a valid passport/travel document
• holding a valid UK residence permit. In case applicant holds a short stay visa for the UK, a C type visa (see example here ), then applicant needs to apply for a Schengen visa from his/her residence country
• applying for a short stay visa: Tourist (including Minors), Visitor Family/Friends, Business, EEA/EU and Swiss national family member, Conference Visa, Medical Visa, Study or Professional Training or Cultural/Sports Visa

Month: April 2019

Please Note: The visa fee and the service charge may change on the first day of every month. Both depend on the exchange rate issued on the last working day of the previous month by the European Central Bank .

There is a VFS service charge of EUR 26.20 (£22.49 - inclusive of VAT) per visa application in addition to the visa fee payable by all applicants.

Remark: 1 EUR = 0. 85830 GBP (exchange rate on the last working day (29 March 2019) applicable for April 2019, for more information see the website of the European Central Bank).

Please Note: The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

• children under six years;
• school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training (e.g. The Erasmus Programme etc.) ;
• researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research as defined in Recommendation No 2005/761/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 September 2005 to facilitate the issue by the Member States of uniform short-stay visas for researchers from third countries travelling within the Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research (21);
• representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports,
• cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.

For detailed fee exemptions contact the Visa Section of the Embassy of the Czech Republic:

Monday – Thursday 14:00 – 16:00 at tel. 020 7243 7915

email: visa.london@embassy.mzv.cz .

The list of documents below is not an exhaustive list of documents and the applicant can always be asked to provide additional information/documents, if desired by the Mission.

Both the standard and the supporting documentation have to be recent , i.e. not older than 1 month, and need to be provided for every Schengen visa application.

Applicants always have to bring and present their original documents, but they only need to submit photocopies of the same; unless the requirements specify that an original document has to be submitted.

Before gathering the required documents mentioned below, applicants are advised to read the requirements under Overview (see here) in order to ensure they are entitled to apply for the chosen visa category.

For Minors, please click here.

• STANDARD DOCUMENTATION FOR SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION
• Visa application form (original) (see here)

Signed passport, at least 2 blank pages for visa purposes, must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the return date of the trip to the Schengen Area and has to be issued within the last 10 years on the day of leaving the Schengen Area. Extended passport may still be valid, but when older than 10 years the passport is no longer acceptable; in that case applicant first needs to apply for a new passport.

Photocopies of previous Schengen visas endorsed in an old passport and/or issued in the last 3 years, if applicable.

• UK Residence permit

UK Residence permit, endorsed in the passport or issued as a Biometrics card, must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the return date of the trip to the Schengen Area; C type visitor visa (see here ) is not acceptable.

• Photograph (original) (see here)
• SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION FOR SCHENGEN VISA APPLICATION
• Employer letter (original): recent, signed, headed letter (addressed to the Mission, name and position of the signee and confirming applicant’s employment) and last 3 months payslips
• Student letter (original): recent, signed, UK university/college/school letter (addressed to the Mission, name and position of the signee and confirming applicant’s enrolment)
• last tax return correctly showing applicant’s details: name, address, Unique Taxpayer Reference and National Insurance Number; if first tax return has yet to be filed a letter from HMRC containing the Unique Taxpayer Reference and National Insurance Number needs to be provided.
• Company director: Directors´ service contract ; Certificate of Incorporation and Letter from Accountant need to be provided when owning the company.
• Receiving Benefits: recent original letter obtained from local Jobcentre or Pension Service
• Not receiving Benefits: applicant’s cover letter explaining his/her financial situation
• Housewife/man ( only applicable to married couples ): applicant may be sponsored by his/her spouse/registered partner; in these cases the following needs to be provided:
• marriage certificate (original + copy): when this document was issued outside the EU and is not in English or Czech, then it should be translated by a certified translator in the UK
• spouse/registered partner’s passport (original + copy)
• spouse/registered partner’s proof of occupation (as in B.1.a, b or c)
• spouse/registered partner’s proof of funds
• spouse/registered partner’s cover letter (signed & dated) confirming sponsorship

Invitation letter to visit educational or scientific institution

• Proof of funds
• Latest 3 months UK current account bank statements showing applicant’s name, address and end balance dated within the last week on the visa application submission date showing a minimum amount of £ 30.00/day of stay in the Schengen Area + outstanding accommodation and travel fees (alternatively online bank account printouts are also accepted).
• Travellers’ cheques covering the same amount as explained under a.
• Proof of travel (airplane, train, boat, coach, (hired) car)
• Confirmed return travel tickets: mentioning applicant’s name and travel dates to & from the Schengen Area
• When travelling by car: car registration, car insurance, return travel tickets (ferry or Eurotunnel mentioning the car’s registration number) and driver’s driving licence. If applicant is not the driver, then driver’s cover letter (signed & dated) confirming joint travel with applicant and travel dates need to be provided too.

When travel tickets have been paid through travel agency, then a receipt, an invoice or a payment confirmation is also required.

Proof of accommodation

• confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, camping,…) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, travel dates and accommodation address details.

If the applicant’s name is not mentioned on the accommodation reservation, then a joint travel confirmation letter, signed and dated by the person whose name is on the reservation, must also be provided along with a photocopy of that same person’s passport/ID card + passport signature page, if signature is not on passport’s bio page.

When accommodation is reserved for a group, then a list with the names of the group members will also be required; alternatively the group members their names may also be mentioned on the travel ticket

• Staying with friends or relatives in the Czech Republic:

Applicant must provide an original signed invitation letter , photocopy of both sides of the inviting person´s ID (" občanský průkaz " in Czech) or copy passport’s bio page and copy of Czech residence permit ,if your host is not Czech.

The invitation letter needs to provide exact dates the applicant is going to be staying with the invitee and the address where they will be staying.

A formal obligation can be obtained by your host at the regional office of the Czech Immigration Authority in the Czech Republic. It may replace some required supporting documents as financial funds and proof of accommodation.

Applicants visiting more than 1 Schengen State also need to provide a complete Travel Plan (see here ) clearly showing the dates of stay in the various Schengen States + addresses of stay during that same period.

UK registered travel insurance – clearly showing the applicant’s name - has to be valid throughout the complete territory of the Schengen Area and must cover the entire period of the applicant’s intended stay in the Schengen Area; minimum coverage for medical emergency and repatriation must be 30.000 €.

• MINORS (every applicant who hasn’t reached the age of 18 years when submitting a Schengen visa application)

In addition to ALL abovementioned documents, every minor also needs to provide the following documents as part of A. Standard Documentation:

• Birth certificate Unabridged birth certificate showing biological parents their names; if not in English or Czech, then translation by a certified translator in the UK is also required
• Consent of both parents Both biological parents need to give their written consent (signed & dated) for the minor to travel
• Parents passports (copy)
• Proof of sole custody (in case of a single parent): when parents are divorced or one of the parents has deceased, then the same has to be demonstrated by court order (original to be seen) or death certificate (original to be seen)
• Proof of legal guardianship (in case a guardian has been appointed by the parents): the guardianship letter and the guardian’s passport’s Bio page and signature page, if signature is not on Bio page

Please provide one recent colour photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached ( glued ) to the Visa Application Form

If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here ), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application centre.

Usually, processing time for visa applications is 10 working days (starting from the time when the Embassy or Consulate received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy or Consulate. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least two weeks prior to date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.

For Czech Republic every applicant needs to provide a signed printout from a Schengen visa application form (VAF).

Therefore each applicant first needs to download and print the Schengen visa application form as follows:

• Click Schengen Visa Application form (PDF format in English)
• Select File in Menu bar
• Select Print and confirm Printing

or alternatively:

• Right click Schengen Visa Application form
• Select Print target and confirm Printing

Once the Schengen visa application form has been printed, then applicant needs to finish the remaining steps:

• Duly complete the printed visa application form (as per the passport’s details)
• Sign the completed visa application form in the designated places (no.37 and right under the disclaimer at the end of the VAF)
• Bring the signed visa application form with the supporting documents on his/her appointment day (see Schedule an Appointment ).

Cultural/Sports Visa

Applicants, who intend to travel to attend a cultural or sports event can apply for Cultural/Sports Visa.

Invitation letter needs to confirm clearly the purpose of travel, if not, applicant will need to apply as f.

• solicitor: when applicant’s company has been registered by a solicitor
• bank manager: when applicant’s company has a business bank account
• Companies House: Certificate of Incorporation received upon registering business: if applicant’s name is not mentioned on certificate, then additional proof demonstrating connection applicant – company should be provided

Invitation letter or registration confirmation to attend conference/seminar/workshop or Sport event

Long Stay Visa

Please find out whether, depending on your citizenship, country of long-term residence, and the duration and reasons for your stay, you need a visa to enter Switzerland.

For more information kindly check the Embassy of Switzerland website.

Download Forms

Visa Fee Change :

• Children above 12 years will be considered as adults.
• Children under 6 years will not pay any visa fee.
• All Visa fee and Service charges are payable in cash or card.

Note: Each case is reviewed separately at the time of application, and no guarantee can be given that a visa will be issued. In any case, the Visa Fees will NOT BE REFUNDED.

VFS Global Service Charges

Applicants shall be levied a service charge of INR 1533/-(All VFS’s service charges are inclusive of Goods & Service Tax –SGST@9% and CGST@9%) and convenience fees of INR 150 payable for provision of multiple mode of payment.

• The applicable visa fee in Indian Rupees is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
• The optional courier facility is available at INR 450/- (All VFS’s service charges are inclusive of Goods & Service Tax –SGST@9% and CGST@9%) per application.
• We accept all Visa, Master Card, Rupay and Amex cards.
• All fees are non-refundable.
• In any case of refund for Online or POS transactions, a bank charge will be deducted. The processing time for refund of Online Payment is 5-7 working days and POS Payment is 21 working days,

The decision is taken by the competent cantonal migration authority in Switzerland and takes 8 - 12 weeks. If authorization to Switzerland has already been obtained, the processing time for your visa application will be up to 5 working days.

Application for Schengen visa and procedure

Switzerland and India

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• Visa & entry to Switzerland
• Visa – Entry to and residence in Switzerland
• Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days

English – German Other languages: SEM – Visa Application Form

Since 02.11.2015 all diplomatic representations of the Schengen member states in India have to capture the biometric data (finger scans and facial image) of persons applying for a Schengen visa. The data will be kept in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years. For further information:

Data protection Visa Information System (VIS)

If your finger scans have not been collected yet, personal appearance of the applicants is mandatory when applying for a Schengen visa. Personal appearance and fingerprint scan is not necessary for children under the age of 12 years.

If your finger scans were collected within the last 59 months and a visa with the mention "VIS" has been granted, then you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application(s) and personal appearance is not necessary. Please provide copy of your visa sticker issued after 02.11.2015 with the “VIS” mention.

You will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints in case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality.

The Swiss representation still reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking his application.

Processing time for a visa application: 7 – 10 working days after submission at any VFS application centre in India.

• Business (PDF, 2 Pages, 221.3 kB, English)
• Tourist (English)
• Incentive Tours (PDF, 1 Page, 201.1 kB, English)
• Personal visit (PDF, 2 Pages, 230.7 kB, English)
• Students up to 90 days (PDF, 2 Pages, 238.5 kB, English)
• Official passports (PDF, 2 Pages, 292.8 kB, English)
• Family of diplomatic passport holder (PDF, 1 Page, 285.4 kB, English)   
• Statutory Rights-Requirements for a Written Objection (PDF, 2 Pages, 156.6 kB, English)
• Approved list of Indian travel insurance companies (PDF, 2 Pages, 429.6 kB, English)
• Appendix 8 Authorization letter third party (PDF, 1 Page, 35.6 kB, English)
• Common information sheet for Schengen visa applicants in India (PDF, 7 Pages, 489.4 kB, English)

SEM – Number 8 (For hosts in Switzerland) of FAQ – Frequently asked questions

SEM – Factsheet on letter of invitation

SEM – Information on Declaration of Sponsorship

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) – MRTD Photo Guidelines

Photograph Requirements (PDF, 3 Pages, 473.0 kB, English)

As a general rule, a decision is taken by the Consulate within 15 days. This period may, in individual cases, be extended.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to seven calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before the planned journey.  

The reasons for refusal are notified to the applicant using a standard form.

You have the right to appeal within 30 days of receipt of the refusal. For information on appeal procedures, please refer to the webpage of the State Secretariat for Migration.

It is mandatory, with immediate effect, to provide biometrics each time if the applicants are applying from any VFS visa application centre in India.

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy or Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Citizens of the EU and the EFTA and their family members

If you wish to complain about the behavior of the consular staff and, if applicable, about the external service provider or about the process, please contact the competent representation in writing.

Start of page Last update 26.03.2024