Visa – Entry to and residence in Switzerland

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.

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.

Citizens of EU and EFTA countries will find information regarding admission requirements and employment on the webpages of the SEM.

SEM – Free Movement of Persons Switzerland – EU/EFTA

SEM – Labour / Work permits

Introduction of the Visa Information System (VIS)

On 11 October 2011 the Schengen member states introduced the Visa Information System (VIS) which records the biometric data of the visa applicant (digital photograph and 10 fingerprints).

All Swiss representations are already connected to VIS and all foreign representative offices of the Schengen member states in Taiwan (Chinese Taipei) started to capture the biometric data of persons applying for a Schengen visa on 12 October 2015.

More information regarding the introduction of the VIS and the capture of biometric data is available on the European Union's VIS leaflet and on the European Commission's website