Switzerland Visa Types
Based on the purpose of the visit and the permitted duration of stay, the Swiss permit can be classified into the following -
- Switzerland Schengen visa - Also known as the short term Schengen C category, it is issued for a stay duration of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Based on the purpose of visit, these can further be divided into -
- Tourist - These are issued to people who are visiting Switzerland for the purpose of taking part in tourism-related activities
- Business - This type of permit is issued for businessmen who are travelling to Switzerland for engaging in business activities such as meetings, conferences, trade fairs, etc.
- Visitor - This category is for people entering the Swiss confederation for the purpose of visiting their family members or friends residing in the country.
- Incentive tour - This special category is issued for people who have to travel to Switzerland as an incentive for special achievements.
- Study - These are issued for individuals entering Switzerland for taking part in short term studies that last fewer than 90 days.
- Switzerland national visa - Also known as the long term D category, these permits are required when your stay duration is for more than 90 days and up to 1 year. Based on the purpose of the visit, these can be divided into the following types.
- Study - This type is issued for individuals taking part in studies in Switzerland that last longer than 90 days.
- Work - This is issued for people taking part in work and other employment activities in Switzerland.
- Family reunification- This is issued for people who are visiting Switzerland to reunite with their family members in the country and live with them.
Documents Required for Switzerland Visa
The following are the list of general documents you must have along with your visa application. However, note that based on the exact type of your visa, there are specific documents required.
1. It must contain at least 2 blank pages.
2. It should not be older than 10 years.
3. It should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
4. Old passports, if any, are to be attached.
1. This must include the applicant's details.
2. It should clearly mention the source of funds.
3. It should clearly state the purpose and duration of the visit.
4. It should be signed by the applicant and addressed to the Embassy of Switzerland.
- Flight reservation for round trip
- Proof of accommodation - hotel bookings/invitation to stay/residence bookings, etc
- Medical travel insurance coverage up to at least 30000 Euros
- Proof of occupation -
Proof of occupation such as employment letter, Copy of business license, etc
Financial documents such as bank statements of past 3 months, Passbook copy, ITR, etc.
Switzerland Visa Photo Requirements
- Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
- Colour: Coloured
- Head must occupy the central position
- Must be captured within the last 3 months
- Background: Solid, plain white or grey
- 80% face coverage
- Neutral expression
- Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription glasses
- Headgears - only for religious reasons
- Facial hair - permitted
Switzerland Visa Processing Time
The processing time for the Swiss permit is dependent on the exact type of the permit, the validity of the visa, the volume of applications at the embassy, as well as your previous travel history. In normal conditions, it takes around 7-10 working days from the date of the application to process the application. However, this can even take longer in certain extreme cases. As a result, it is strongly recommended that you must apply for it well in advance.
Important Note:-
- All the above prices mentioned are in INR
- Visa processing time 7 to 10 working days (subject to change)
- Visa is subject to approval from immigration department & 100% non-refundable once applied or if rejected
