All visa applications are accepted by appointment only. IMPORTANT: Please request an appointment allowing enough time in advance.

In addition the passport will be retained at the Embassy with the submission of the application during the whole processing time.

All invitation letters from individuals and institutions located in Switzerland have to be sent directly by fax or email to the visa applicant. The visa applicant is invited, in his/her own interest, to submit a complete file. To avoid any misunderstanding and unnecessary delays, it is highly recommended to download the "New requirements Schengen Visa" document (download available on the right side). All incomplete applications will not be accepted and handed back to the visa applicant.

In the framework of Switzerland’s association with the Schengen area, the Swiss diplomatic and consular missions issue Schengen visas since December 2008, entitling holders to a maximum three-month stay in the whole Schengen area.

The Schengen visa is a standard entry permit, valid in principle for the access into the whole Schengen area. The introduction of Schengen visas for the admission into Switzerland will be of particular benefit to tourists and business travellers. Anyone planning to visit Switzerland and any of the other Schengen states will only need a Schengen visa.

Schengen rules only apply to short-term stays for a maximum of 90 days over a six-month period. For stays longer than three months in a Schengen member state, applications are processed under the legislation of the country concerned, and the corresponding visas are valid only in this country. The rules governing the pursuit of a gainful activity also remain subject to national legislation. 

To avoid any impediment, an application form should be deposited at least 20 days prior to your travel date. Visa applications must always be submitted to that country most closely associated with the main destination and / or motive for the applicant’s trip. 

Each applicant is required to fill in a Schengen visa application form.