Switzerland Tourist Visa for Indians

The Switzerland Short Stay Visa, officially known as the Schengen Visa Type C, allows Indian citizens to travel to Switzerland and other Schengen countries for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.

Since Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, this visa permits travel across all Schengen member states, provided Switzerland is your main destination (maximum stay) or first point of entry.

Typically ,This tourist visa is valid up to 3 months (90 days) within any 180 day period, With options for longer-term visas (2, 5, or 10 years), though each visit must not exceed 3 months.

You can stay up to 90 days within 180 days period per visit. Longer-term visas still require that each stay does not exceed this limit, except for specific medical purposes.

The visa allows multiple entries within its validity period, provided each stay is within the 3-month limit. Depending on travel history and purpose, the visa may be granted as single, double, or multiple entry.

The Schengen Travel allows to travel all the Schengen countries during the validity period.

Step 1: Filling Out the Application Form

○ Complete the Schengen Visa Application Form carefully. All details must match your passport and supporting documents.

○ Fill in your personal details, travel dates, intended entry and exit dates, accommodation details, and purpose of travel (tourism, business, visit, etc.).

○ If travelling to multiple Schengen countries, Switzerland must be your main destination (maximum stay) or first point of entry.

○ After completing the form, print it and sign it at the designated places.

○ If the applicant is a minor, the form must be signed by both parents or legal guardians.

Step 2: Documents Required

Organise your documents in the correct order before your appointment to avoid delays.

○ Visa Application Form: Completed, printed, and signed.

○ Passport: Issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area, with at least two blank pages. Include photocopies of the first and last pages and any previous Schengen visas.

○ Photographs: Two recent passport-size photos (35mm x 45mm), white background, 80% face coverage, matte finish.

○ Travel Itinerary: Day-wise travel plan including cities you plan to visit.

○ Flight Reservation: Confirmed return ticket or reservation showing entry and exit from the Schengen area.

○ Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings for the entire stay or invitation letter from host in Switzerland (with copy of host’s ID/residence permit).

○ Travel Insurance: Minimum coverage of €30,000, valid across all Schengen countries for the entire stay duration.

○ Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last 3–6 months, duly stamped by the bank. Switzerland generally requires proof of approximately €113 per day of stay (subject to change) with a minimum required amount.

○ Employment Proof (Salaried): Employment letter, leave approval letter, salary slips (last 3 months).

○ Business Proof (Self-Employed): Business registration certificate, GST registration, company bank statements.

○ Student Proof: Bonafide certificate from school/college and leave approval.

○ ITR (if available): Income Tax Returns for the last 1–2 years.

○ Cover Letter: A detailed explanation of your travel purpose, duration, who is funding the trip, and assurance of return to India.

Step 3: Booking Your Visa Appointment

○ Book an appointment at the authorised Switzerland Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your city.

○ Select the correct category – Short Stay Visa (Type C).

○ Choose a suitable date and time slot.

○ Applications can be submitted up to 6 months before travel and should ideally be filed at least 3–4 weeks prior to departure.

○ During peak travel seasons (April–July and October–December), appointments may fill quickly, so plan early.

Step 4: Visit the VAC

○ Arrive at the VAC at least 15 minutes before your appointment time.

○ Carry your complete document file, passport, photographs, and appointment confirmation.

○ Your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) will be collected if not given in the last 59 months for a Schengen visa.

○ Submit your documents at the counter for verification.

○ Pay the visa fee (€90 for adults, payable in INR as per exchange rate) along with service charges. €45 for children aged 6–12; children below 6 years are exempt.

○ After submission, you will receive a receipt with a tracking number.

Step 5: Tracking and Receiving Your Passport

○ Track your application status using the reference number provided.

○ Standard processing time is approximately 15 days but may take longer during peak periods or if additional documents are requested.

○ Once a decision is made, you can collect your passport from the VAC or opt for courier delivery (if selected).

○ If approved, the visa sticker will mention the validity period, number of entries, and duration of stay (maximum 90 days within 180 days).

If your trip to Switzerland is being sponsored by a family member, friend, or company, the overall process remains similar to the standard visa application. However, you must submit additional documents to clearly establish who is funding your trip and demonstrate the sponsor’s financial capacity to support you during your stay.

Step 1: Filling Out the Application Form

○ Complete the Schengen Visa Application Form in the same manner as a standard application.

○ Ensure that the purpose of travel is clearly mentioned (Tourism, Visit Family/Friends, Business, etc.).

○ In your cover letter, clearly state that your trip is sponsored and include the sponsor’s details (full name, relationship, address, and residence status in Switzerland).

○ If Switzerland is your main destination, ensure it is correctly indicated in the application.

○ Print and sign the completed application form before your appointment.

Step 2: Documents Required (In Addition to Standard Documents)

Along with all standard visa documents, you must provide the following:

○ Sponsorship Letter: A signed letter from your sponsor clearly stating they will bear your travel, accommodation, and living expenses. The letter should include the sponsor’s full name, address in Switzerland, contact details, passport number, and relationship with the applicant.

○ Proof of Relationship: If sponsored by a family member or friend, submit supporting documents such as birth certificate, marriage certificate, or any official proof establishing the relationship.

○ Sponsor’s Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last 3–6 months, salary slips, employment contract, tax returns, or business financial documents showing sufficient funds to support your stay (Switzerland generally expects approximately CHF 100 per day – subject to change).

○ Sponsor’s ID and Legal Status Proof: Copy of sponsor’s passport (bio page) and Swiss residence permit (if applicable).

○ Invitation Letter: If sponsored by a company or organisation in Switzerland, provide an official invitation letter on company letterhead mentioning the purpose of visit, duration of stay, and confirmation of financial responsibility (if applicable).

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and properly arranged. Missing financial proof or unclear relationship documentation may lead to delays or refusal.

Step 3: Paying the Visa Fees

○ The visa fee for sponsored applicants is the same as the standard Schengen visa fee (approximately €90 for adults, payable in INR as per the applicable exchange rate).

○ Reduced fees apply for children aged 6–12 years, and children below 6 years are exempt.

○ Service charges of the Visa Application Centre will apply separately.

Step 4: Booking Your Visa Appointment

○ Book an appointment at the authorised Switzerland Visa Application Centre operated by VFS Global in your city.

○ Select the correct category under Short Stay (Type C).

○ Choose a suitable date and time. It is recommended to apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel (applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance).

Step 5: Visit the Visa Application Centre (VAC)

○ On the day of your appointment, carry your completed application form, passport, photographs, and all supporting documents (including sponsorship documents).

○ Submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), if not already enrolled within the last 59 months.

○ Pay the visa fee and service charges (if not paid earlier).

○ After submission, you will receive a receipt with a tracking number.

Step 6: Tracking and Receiving Your Passport

○ Use the tracking number to monitor the status of your application online.

○ Standard processing time is usually around 15 days but may vary depending on the case and travel season.

○ Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the VAC or receive it via courier if opted.

○ If approved, verify the visa details (validity, number of entries, and duration of stay) printed on the visa sticker before travelling.

Additional Notes

Processing Time: Typically, 10–15 working days, but apply early (up to 6 months before your planned trip) to avoid delays.

Notification and Collection: VFS Global will notify you via email or SMS when your passport is ready for pickup. You can either collect it in person or have it delivered for an additional fee.

You are required to submit your passport, application form, biometric data, and supporting documents at the authorised Visa Application Centre (VAC). There is no mandatory in-person interview as part of the regular Schengen visa process.

During your VAC visit, your fingerprints and photograph will be collected (if not enrolled within the last 59 months). This is a standard procedure and should not be confused with an interview.

In rare cases, the Consulate of Switzerland may request an interview if additional clarification or verification is required regarding your application, documents, travel history, or financial details. This is not common and usually happens only when further assessment is necessary.

If an interview is required, you will receive official communication with detailed instructions, including the date, time, and location. You must attend as per the instructions provided.

Visa authorities can easily identify fake or unverifiable flight bookings. Instead of risking rejection, opt for refundable or flexible flight tickets. This shows genuine travel intent and avoids complications.

Small mistakes lead to major delays. Cross-check spellings, passport numbers, travel dates, and financial details. Ensure all documents are complete, signed, and consistent with your application form.

A clear one-page cover letter explaining your travel purpose, itinerary, funding source, and intent to return to India strengthens your application. Keep it professional and concise.

Show employment proof, business ownership, family ties, property ownership, or ongoing financial commitments (like home loans). This reassures the consulate that you will return after your trip.

Switzerland Schengen visa applications can be submitted up to 6 months before travel. It is advisable to apply at least 3–4 weeks before departure, especially during peak travel seasons.

Avoid sudden large unexplained deposits before applying. Visa officers prefer consistent income flow and stable financial history over inflated last-minute balances.

Switzerland generally requires proof of approximately CHF 100 per day of stay, with a minimum required amount (subject to change). Ensure your bank balance comfortably covers your travel, accommodation, daily expenses, and emergency buffer.

A detailed itinerary including cities, hotel bookings, and return flight details shows that your trip is well-planned and genuine.

Your insurance must cover at least €30,000 and be valid across all Schengen countries for the full duration of your stay. Even a one-day gap can cause issues.

Always provide accurate information. Any inconsistencies between previous visas, travel history, or documents can result in rejection. Schengen countries share immigration data.

While interviews are rare, the consulate may request additional documents or clarification. Respond quickly and clearly to avoid processing delays.

If previous visa applications mentioned certain travel plans, ensure your travel history aligns. Discrepancies between past applications and actual travel can raise concerns.

If visiting family or friends in Switzerland, an official invitation letter along with their ID and residence proof adds credibility to your application.

Switzerland Schengen visas generally follow standard processing timelines - 15 days (may extend to 30 days in peak season or if additional verification is required). There is usually no guaranteed priority or express service, so plan accordingly.

Processing usually takes 15 days from the date of submission. In some cases, it may take up to 30–45 days if additional documents or internal consultation are required. During peak travel seasons, delays are possible.

You cannot complete the process entirely online. You must submit your application in person at a Visa Application Centre operated by VFS Global. Biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) are mandatory unless submitted within the last 59 months.

A short-stay (Type C) visa is generally issued for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The exact validity and number of entries (single, double, or multiple) are decided by the visa officer based on your application.

Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area. Indian passport holders require a Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) to visit Switzerland for tourism purposes.

You typically need a valid passport, completed Schengen visa form, two recent photographs, travel itinerary, flight reservation, proof of accommodation, bank statements for the last 3–6 months, employment or business proof, cover letter, travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage, and previous travel history if applicable. Additional documents may be requested depending on your profile.

Yes. Travel medical insurance is mandatory and must cover at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. It must be valid across all Schengen countries for the entire duration of your stay.

While there is no officially fixed public amount, applicants are generally expected to demonstrate approximately CHF 100 per day of stay, subject to change. The bank statement should show stable financial activity and sufficient funds to cover the entire trip.

No. A Switzerland Tourist Visa strictly prohibits employment, paid work, or business activities that generate income in Switzerland.

You can apply up to 6 months before your travel date. It is advisable to apply at least 3–4 weeks before departure, especially during peak travel seasons.

You need a flight reservation, but it is strongly recommended not to purchase non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved.

Extensions are granted only in exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies, force majeure, or humanitarian reasons. Tourist extensions are not granted for regular travel purposes.

As per current Schengen regulations, the standard visa fee for adults is €90. For children aged 6–12 years, the fee is €45. Children under 6 years are exempt from visa fees. Service charges by VFS Global are additional.

Yes. Insufficient financial proof is one of the most common reasons for visa refusal. You must clearly demonstrate that you can financially support your stay.

You may stay for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area, subject to the duration granted on your visa sticker.