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Switzerland

Switzerland

Switzerland Visa - Definitive Guide

Officially known as the Swiss confederation, Switzerland is one of the most popular countries in Europe, and in fact the entire world. The Alpine country is famous for its chocolates, cheese, watches, banks, and of course, the Swiss Alps. The Switzerland visa lets you visit the country to engage in various activities.

 

What is Switzerland Visa?

The Swiss visa is an endorsement required to enter the country for whatever purpose it may be. Issued as single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry, this permit is only required if you are not a national of other Schengen countries or the visa-exempt nations. Since India does not come under this, to enter Switzerland, you would need a Switzerland visa from India.

 

How to Apply for Switzerland Visa?

 The applications for the short term visa for Switzerland from India is done through VACs (Visa Application Center). However, the long term categories must be applied directly to the embassy. The application, however, is done offline as there is no online visa application for Switzerland from India. Before starting the application, ensure that you check if you are eligible for the particular category you are applying for. After that, you may proceed with the application as follows:

  1. Obtain all the documents as per the document checklist for the exact visa type.
  2. Visit the website of the VAC, or the Embassy of Switzerland and download the application form.
  3. Fill in the Switzerland visa application form with all the relevant details and then print it.
  4. Proceed to book your appointment at the VAC. You can do this by visiting the online portal of the VAC.
  5. Visit the respective VAC with the documents, completed application form, and the fees. You will also have to submit your biometrics here.

Keep in mind that if you have submitted your biometrics for a Schengen visa in the past 5 years, you do not have to submit them again. In this case, you may send your application through a third party, provided that they carry a letter of authorization signed by you.

Also, note that you must submit only original and genuine documents. Providing fake documents or incorrect information can lead to a Schengen visa rejection.

 

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.

  • A valid passport:
  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.
  • A covering letter:
  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:

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 Switzerland Schengen visa fees for Indian citizens depends on factors such as the exact type of the permit, the embassy decision, as well as the currency exchange rates. Apart from the application fees, you will also have to pay the biometric charges, service charges by the VAC, as well as any delivery charges. As a result, you must confirm the exact amount before starting the application