Do you need a visa?
Depending on your nationality, you need a visa to travel to Switzerland.
More information under: Nationality
General framework
- Only short-term visa applications (up to 90 days, Schengen visa) such as tourist, visit or business can be submitted online. A visa application can be submitted at the earliest six months before entering the Schengen area.
- Applications for long-term visas (over 90 days, National visa) must be filed directly with the responsible Swiss representation.
- Depending on the Swiss representation, appointments can be made for both, Schengen and National visas.
- Scheduling an appointment is free of charge.
- Before starting the application process, please consult the website of the responsible Swiss representation to determine if there is a waiting period to obtain an appointment.
Where to apply for a visa?
Depending on your place of residence, you can submit your visa application either:
- directly at a Swiss representation abroad;
- by filling out the visa application online;
- at an external visa service provider;
- at the representation of another Schengen State.