Switzerland Visa for Indians

The visa fee may vary depending on the visa type and the purpose of travel. Check the visa fees on the official portals prior to applying for a visa.

• In some cases, the processing time may be higher depending on the type of visa and other factors.

Short Stay or Type C Visa

Long Stay or National Visa

A Switzerland visa for Indians is a mandatory permit that is legally required for Indians to enter Switzerland. India is not among the visa-free countries. Hence, all Indians mandatorily need a visa before entering Switzerland.

Besides, there is no visa-on-arrival for Indians and a pre-approved visa application for Switzerland from India is a must. One must apply for the right type of visa depending on the intention of their visit.

However, since Switzerland is a Schengen country, Indians who have a Schengen visa from other Schengen states do not require an additional or separate visa to travel to Switzerland.

Note: India and Switzerland have a mutual agreement that allows the diplomatic passport holders of both countries to enter without requiring a visa and stay up to 90 days. However, diplomatic passport holders are not allowed to take up any kind of employment in the visiting country.

The Swiss government offers several kinds of visas to Indian visitors. The various types of Switzerland visas for Indians are as mentioned below -

The two major types of Switzerland visas for Indians are:

Schengen Visa or Type C Visa- Valid for stays up to 90 days

National Visa or Type D Visa- Valid for stays more than 90 days

Here is a further breakdown of these two types of visa:

Schengen Short Stay Visa or Type C Visa

**The visa fees are subject to the rates as prescribed by the immigration authorities. The amount may also vary depending on the currency exchange rate. Therefore, it is recommended to check the latest visa fee with VFS Global.

**Additional Charges for Switzerland Visa by VFS Global **

• **Valid Passport-** Applicants must have a valid passport with at least 3 months' validity and blank pages for visa stamping.
  

• **Travel Insurance-** It is mandatory to purchase travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
  

• **Intention to Return-** You must also have return flight tickets to prove your intention to return to India.
  

• **Clean Record-** Applicants must showcase a clean record without any history of crimes or violations.
  

• **Financial Ability—** It is crucial to exhibit a strong financial background with sufficient bank balance. This balance must be sufficient to cover your stay expenses in Switzerland.
  

Also Read: What is Switzerland Famous For?

-Through VFS Global

• Go to VFS Global’s official website.

• Click on the option “Start Now” under the “Apply for a Visa” tab.

• On the next page, you may have a look at the types of visas and choose an appropriate visa type applicable to you.

• Next, click on “Begin Your Application”.

• The next step is to download and fill out the Switzerland visa application form in India.

• After you have filled out the application form accurately, you must book an appointment at the Embassy to make the submissions.

• Go to the appointment page and click on “Book Now.”

• If you do not have an account on the VFS portal, you must click on “I don’t have an account”. Register on the portal using the email ID, password and phone number.

• Click on the activation link to verify your email address.

• Next, log in to the portal and choose the visa application centre location, appointment category and sub-appointment category. Next, click on “Continue.”

Note: You can also choose the Embassy or Consulate if you wish to visit the Embassy during your visa process.

• You may provide the personal details of the visa applicant by clicking on Save.

• Validate the personal details and click on “Continue.”

• At this stage, you may also add the details of your family members if you are making a group application and click ‘Continue.’

• Now choose the preferred appointment date and time and click ‘Continue.’

• You may also choose any additional services you desire, such as SMS, courier, etc.

• On the final page, you must review the application details, service fee, visa fee, etc.

• Accept the terms and conditions on the page and click on ‘Pay Online.’

• Complete the payment using the secured payment gateway.

• After successful payment completion, you will receive the confirmation in your registered email.

• On the appointed day, visit the centre with all the necessary documents such as the application form, payment receipt, etc.

• Complete the process at the VAC, such as submitting the biometrics, digital photograph, etc.

• Your application will then be forwarded to the Embassy of Switzerland in India.

• On completion of the application verification, you will receive your passport and visa, after which you can enter Switzerland.

Useful Link: Embassy of Switzerland in India

1. Go to VFS Global’s official website.

2. Navigate to the Apply for a Visa tab and click on the option “Start Now”.

3. Choose the visa type and click on “Begin Your Application”.

4. Download and fill out the visa application form.

5. Next, go to the appointment page and click on “Book Now.”

6. If you don't have an account on the VFS portal, click on “I don’t have an account.” Then, register using your email ID, password and phone number.

7. Click on the activation link to verify your email address.

8. Log in to the portal and choose the visa application centre location, appointment category and sub-appointment category. Next, click on “Continue.”

Note: You can also choose the Embassy or Consulate if you wish to visit the Embassy during your visa process.

9. You may provide the personal details of the visa applicant by clicking on Save.\

10. Validate the personal details and click on “Continue.”

11. At this stage, you may also add the details of your family members if you are making a group application and click ‘Continue.’

12. Now choose the preferred appointment date and time and click ‘Continue.’

13. You may also choose any additional services you desire, such as SMS, courier, etc.

14. After reviewing the form and details, complete the payment using the secured payment gateway and receive the confirmation.

15. Complete the process at the VAC, such as submitting the biometrics, digital photograph, etc.

16. Your application will then be forwarded to the Embassy of Switzerland in India.

17. On completion of the application verification, you will receive your passport and visa, after which you can enter Switzerland.

The time taken for Swiss visa processing at the Embassy is between 10-15 working days after the visa is received at the centre. If you are applying at the VFS centres in certain states, the applications are submitted to the Embassy on the second or third working day.

Thus, one must keep the processing time and the date of travel in mind while applying for the Switzerland visa. An application may be submitted at the earliest but not earlier than six months from the date of departure.

Some visas may take more than usual time for processing if the applicant is required to submit any additional documents or if the application requires additional scrutiny. The processing times may also vary depending on the time of the year, tourist season, etc. Thus, to receive the visa well in time, it is advisable to make an early application.

If you plan to visit Switzerland anytime soon, you need to keep a few documents handy to make your visa application process smooth. Here's a list of documents required for a Switzerland visa from India that you will need to submit along with your Switzerland visa application form to get a valid visa for your Swiss trip:

• A valid Indian Passport issued in the last 10 years with a minimum validity of at least 3 months and 2 blank pages.

• Duly filled out Switzerland visa application form.

• Passport-size photographs of the applicants with a dimension of 35X45 mm in matt finish and white background.

Note: The number of photographs depends on the type of visa application.

• A cover letter mentioning travel details.

• Return tickets for your Switzerland trip.

• A complete itinerary of your Swiss trip.

• Invitation letter from the employer or business partner.

• Provide proof of accommodation, such as hotel or Airbnb booking details in Switzerland.

• Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 3 years.

• Last 6 months’ Bank Statement with the bank’s signature and stamp on A4 size.

• Salary Slips for the last 3 months.

• Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of € 30,000 per person.

Useful Link: Schengen visa application form for short stays
National Visa application form

• A valid Indian Passport issued in the last 10 years with a minimum validity of at least 3 months and 2 blank pages.
  

• Duly filled out the Switzerland visa application form.
  

• Passport-size photographs of the applicants with a dimension of 35X45 mm in matt finish and white background.
  

• A cover letter mentioning travel details.
  

• Return tickets for your Switzerland trip.
  

• A complete itinerary of your Swiss trip.
  

• An invitation letter from the employer or business partner.
  

• Provide proof of accommodation, such as hotel or Airbnb booking details in Switzerland.
  

• Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 3 years.
  

• Last 6 months’ Bank Statement with the bank’s signature and stamp on A4 size.
  

• Salary Slips for the last 3 months.
  

• Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of € 30,000 per person.
  

Note: The number of photographs depends on the type of visa application. For exact information, you can refer to the list mentioned by VFS Global by selecting the visa type.

Also Read: Switzerland Visa Photo Size and Photo Requirements

The processing time for a Switzerland visa for Indians is generally 10-15 calendar days. In some cases, additional documents may be required, or further verification must be carried out. Such visa processing may take longer than usual. The visa processing time may also vary depending on prevailing circumstances, such as a high volume of applications.

One must keep in mind all the above factors and apply for a Switzerland visa in advance. It ensures that your visa is approved on time and that you can depart on the designated date. However, an application for a Switzerland visa must not be submitted earlier than 6 months from the date of departure.

Useful Link: Business Schengen Visa Documents List

Tourist Schengen Visa Document List

• Head to the VFS Global website.
  

• Click on the ‘Track Your Application’ option in the menu.
  

• Next, click on the ‘track your application status online’ text. 
  

• Key in the application reference number and last name and enter the captcha correctly.
  

• Select the ‘Submit’ button.
  

• Your visa application status will be displayed on the screen.
  

Note: You can also choose the optional and paid SMS service to be notified about the latest status of your application.

Indian diplomats visiting Switzerland are eligible for visa-free entry as per the agreement between the two countries. When visiting this European nation for official purposes, diplomats do not require a visa. The Swiss government allows them to stay for up to 90 days without the need for a visa. However, for a stay beyond 90 days, they may require a visa to be granted.

Another category of Indians who do not need a visa for Switzerland are those who possess a valid residence permit from a Schengen member state or a valid type D visa and a valid travel document.

No, short-stay Swiss visas are generally not extendable if you have stayed for 90 days during the 180 days. However, those individuals who have stayed for less than 90 days may get a visa extension.

If you wish to stay for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a national or Type D visa after returning to your home country.

In some exceptional situations, the authorities may allow a visa extension. You may get a visa extension beyond 90 days on medical grounds, humanitarian reasons, family emergencies and other compelling reasons.

Also Read: Switzerland Citizenship For Indian: Requirement and Eligibility

If your Switzerland visa is refused, you can get a refund of the cost if you have TATA AIG Travel Insurance. The following steps can help you draft a visa application again.

• **Go Through the Refusal Letter**
  

Read the refusal letter thoroughly and understand the key points mentioned in it. The letter is a crucial document consisting of all the important details and the reason for refusal.

• **Make the Corrections**
  

Rectify the application's errors. Ensure that you include all the relevant and crucial information accurately in the application.

• **Improve the Application**
  

The new application should include concise information and supporting documents. This will give the immigration authorities a clear picture and accurate details.

• **Wait Before You Re-Apply**
  

Take a while to assess the application and the information that you have included. Assess the accuracy and ensure all relevant points are covered to avoid rejection.

• **Take Professional Help**
  

Getting help from professionals can help you determine if you have missed any crucial information. They can also assist you in making the application more precise.

1. Indians can easily obtain a Swiss visa as the visa acceptance rate is pretty high. Besides, the application procedure is simple and easy to follow, which makes it beneficial for Indians.

   2. One must ensure that all the relevant information and documents are included so the visa is granted.

2. While the visa process can be initiated online, one must attend the visa interview at the visa application centre.

3. Switzerland does not have any special provisions for minors entering Switzerland. However, carrying a letter of consent signed by the parents/guardians is recommended.

4. When travelling to Switzerland, you are required to declare all the expensive goods that you may be carrying. For example, if you have clothes worth more than CHF 150 or animal products, alcohol, tobacco, etc., you may have to declare them at customs.

5. There is no requirement to declare cash of CHF 10,000 or more. However, the officials may inquire about the origin and purpose

6. When you arrive at the Swiss airport, keep your passport, visa, proof of accommodation, and other documents handy. You may have to produce it at the immigration counte.

A Swiss visa may get rejected if the applicant falls short of completing the formalities as required or fails to submit the required documents. Knowing the most common reasons for visa rejection assists you in avoiding mistakes and making a successful application.

• Submitting incomplete application forms or providing inaccurate information.

• Not having valid travel medical insurance or having travel medical insurance with insufficient coverage.

• Submitting photographs older than 6 months or with a coloured background or of the wrong dimensions.

• Submitting an expired passport or a passport with insufficient validity.

• A visa application may be rejected if you do not possess sufficient financial means to stay in Switzerland.

Switzerland is one of the most enchanting locations in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. However, the cost of living, healthcare, and all other facilities here are very high. And this is exactly why you would need a travel insurance plan while touring there. Overseas travel insurance will keep your pockets safe by covering the costs of some of the major unforeseen circumstances.

Most importantly, travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for a Switzerland visa. TATA AIG assists you in fulfilling this requirement with its travel insurance Switzerland. From sicknesses to accidents, passport and luggage loss, flight delays and cancellation, our insurance plans assist you in every possible way. Our insurance plan offers financial support on a foreign land at a very affordable premium of 40.82 per day.

You can choose from multiple travel insurance plans such as single-trip, multi-trip, or family insurance. We also offer COVID-19 coverage, an online policy purchase and renewal facility, smooth claim settlement, customer assistance and much more.

Since COVID-19 has ended, all the mandatory restrictions have been lifted by the Swiss government. Travellers to Switzerland no longer need vaccination certificates, masks, RT-PCR reports, etc. However, when travelling to any foreign land, one must take preventive measures to avoid falling sick. Here are some things that one must take care of:

• It is advisable to carry hand sanitisers, insect repellent, sunscreen, etc., to stay protected outdoors.

• In cold weather conditions, you must wear appropriate clothing to prevent frostbite.

• One must carry glacier glasses when travelling to higher altitudes to safeguard oneself from snow blindness.

• Make sure the temperature of your food is appropriate as per the dish. Hot food should be sufficiently hot so that germs do not cause food poisoning.

• Avoid raw foods and unpackaged drinking water.

In case of an emergency, You can reach out to the authorities on the following numbers:

• 117 -Police

• 118- Fire

• 144-Ambulance

• 140- Roadside emergencies

Swiss people consider guinea pigs to be very social animals and hence, the locals keep guinea pigs as pets.

• A large part of the mountains in Switzerland has hollowed out bunkers for the protection of the army and civilians in the event of an attack.

• Switzerland is a beautiful country with towering mountains and glistening lakes, but it has no coastlines.

• Switzerland has 26 cantons and four official languages.

• Sundays are special in Switzerland, and the law prohibits several everyday activities.

• Swiss chocolates are famous all over the world. The locals love their chocolates and hence, they have been perfecting the art of making chocolates since time immemorial.

• A trip to Switzerland is incomplete without tasting their cheese and fondues.

-Zurich: It is the largest city in Switzerland and offers visitors plenty of things to do. You can spend time exploring the cultural and historical sites such as the town hall. You can also go window shopping or admire historic art at the Kunsthaus Museum. It is a great idea to enjoy a view-worthy dinner at Restaurant Buech.

-The Matterhorn: The Matterhorn mountain is an iconic symbol of Switzerland shaped like a jagged tooth. You can hike or choose to ride on cable cars or cogwheel trains from the Zermatt as your base.

-Geneva and Lake Geneva: If you are looking for a variety of experiences, visiting Geneva is a must. Clear lakes, parks, museums and some great restaurants will keep you glued here for a long time. A boat ride in Lake Geneva or a cruise dinner are also some exciting things to do here.

-The Lavaux Vineyards: Vine lovers must visit the Lavaux Vineyards for a unique experience. The vineyards are about 30 km long and are located on the north shore of Lake Geneva. Visiting this vine boutique means you get to taste wine that is not available anywhere else.

-Gruyeres: Tasting cheese is a must in Switzerland, and Gruyeres is world-famous for cheese and chocolate. Here, you can witness how savoury cheese is made and taste samples to tickle your tastebuds. You can also visit Switzerland’s oldest chocolate factory, La Maison Cailler and see how chocolates are made to perfection

Before you set out to witness the mesmerising views in Switzerland, it is important to secure your trip with travel insurance online. Besides, travel insurance is a mandatory requirement that you must fulfil to get a Switzerland visa. Your insurance policy must also meet the minimum coverage requirement.

TATA AIG offers international travel medical insurance for Switzerland with a coverage of €30,000, which helps you to fulfil this mandatory condition. Our insurance plan offers extensive coverage, which includes medical assistance, trip-related cover, baggage and passport cover, etc.

With our Travel Insurance-International Plus plan (titanium variant), you can get coverage of $10,00,000 per traveller. This wide coverage includes expenses related to medical treatment and hospitalisation, medical evacuation, passport or baggage loss or delay, COVID-19 coverage, and much more.

TATA AIG's travel insurance policy safeguards you from trip-related uncertainties, including missed flights, trip cancellation and curtailment, personal liability, etc. And the best part is that you can buy travel insurance online without visiting our office. With no pre-policy check-up, buying our insurance plans is a breeze!