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Visas

Entering Switzerland

To enter Switzerland, it is generally enough to have a valid passport. For certain countries a visa is required only if the stay is to be for more than three months; for others, the visa is required for shorter visits as well. It is advisable to inform yourself, before the trip, at:

 

 

If you want to know what the travel documents and visa requirements are according to nationality, please go to this link: Travel documents and visa requirements by nationality.

 

If the activity envisaged is to be remunerated, a visa is always required. This is issued by the Service Étrangers et Confédérés (SEC), being responsible for immigration questions. (See: "Work permits")

 

The following information may be of use to you: information about entry into Switzerland.

How to request a visa

Anyone requiring a visa must make the request to the appropriate Swiss representation abroad, in accordance with their place of residence, using the visa request form foreseen for this purpose and available free of charge at the representation. The request must be accompanied by the travel documents and, as required, other supporting documentation explaining the purpose and circumstances of the planned visit or transit.

 

The association inviting must act as guarantor of the person invited to Geneva. An attestation of medical/accident/repatriation insurance, valid for the whole period of the stay, may also be required. 

Schengen Agreement

The Schengen and Dublin agreements officially came into force for Switzerland on  the 12th of December 2008. As a result:

  • Schengen visas are recognised for entry into Switzerland (all nationalities)
  •  It is enough to have a Residence permit for Switzerland (permits L, B, C), accompanied by a passport, in order to travel throughout the Schengen Area without a visa.

 

For more information, please contact the Federal Office for Migration.