Print page

Visa – Entry to and residence in Switzerland

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Implementation of directive 2 about preventative measures against the coronavirus (COVID-19-Verordnung 2) and procedure with regard to entry/exit into and out of the Schengen Zone

The Federal Council has decided to stop issuing Schengen visas until further notice.

Therefore, as of March 19, 2020,  the Regional Consular Centre South-East Europe will no longer accept any applications for Schengen visas (stay of up to 90 days) and national visas (stay of more than 90 days). For further information please visit: SEM.

As of July 20th certain third country citizens resident in Romania will be able to apply for Schengen Visas. Please check the information and the list of countries online.

For national Visas D please e-mail the embassy directly.

Lifting of certain entry restrictions as of July 20th

Recommendation for travellers

 

Various regulations apply for entering Switzerland. A basic distinction is made between citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries and those of other countries. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is the responsible authority in Switzerland.

SEM

Since Switzerland’s adherence to the Schengen and Dublin agreements came into force (12 December 2008), Swiss representations abroad are able to issue certain categories of visa, depending on the length of stay and purpose of the journey in Switzerland. Please select one of the following options.

Please note that as of December 3rd 2019 all applicants for Schengen Visas will have to fill out an application online and make an appointment directly online in order to submit their application at the Embassy of Switzerland in Bucharest.

 

 

Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days

For persons wishing to enter Switzerland for a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period: for example, in a context of tourism, a visit to relatives or friends, short-term language studies, participating in a conference or in sporting/cultural events, etc.

National visa for a stay of more than 90 days

For persons wishing to enter Switzerland for a stay of more than 90 days within a 180-day period. It is subject to the authorisation of the cantonal migration authority competent for the intended place of residence. For example: long-term student, family reunification, marriage in Switzerland, etc.

Airport transit visa

For citizens of certain countries who need a transit visa even if they are staying in the international transit area of the airport and do not enter the Schengen territory.

Labour / Work permits

Admission of foreign workers to an employer in Switzerland is subject to the authorisation of the competent cantonal authority. The entry visa is granted only when the requested authorisations have been delivered.

Start of page
Last update 07.07.2020