Essential Guide to Entering Switzerland
Culture-crammed cities, stunning drives, terraced vines, turreted medieval castles, glacier-frosted mountains, and breathtaking Alpine views—Switzerland packs a whole lot into its picturesque landscape.
While enjoying everything Switzerland has to offer is straightforward, understanding the country’s entry requirements may often seem less clear. Therefore, this guide provides crucial information on the various visa types available and the rules you need to navigate for seamless travels.
Do I Need a Visa if I’m an EU Citizen?
Although Switzerland is not part of the European Union (EU), it belongs to the Schengen area. Consequently, nationals from the 26 countries in this border-free region, including Austria, France, Spain, Italy, and Germany, do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. There is no time limit for how long visitors from Schengen countries may stay in Switzerland.
In addition, visas are not required for those holding passports from Ireland, the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, or New Zealand, whether traveling as tourists or for business. Citizens of other EU countries that are outside the Schengen area, along with Norwegians and Icelanders, may enter Switzerland without a visa. However, please note that a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period applies.
What About Visitors from Outside the EU?
If you are coming from a non-EU country, it is essential to carry your passport or EU identity card along with a visa if needed (see below). All non-EU travelers must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from Switzerland and issued within the last ten years—including travelers from the UK.
Visitors from countries outside the EU that are not on the visa waiver list must apply for a short-stay Schengen Visa to enter Switzerland. This visa allows for unlimited travel throughout the 26 Schengen zone countries for up to 90 days. If you plan to visit other countries alongside Switzerland, apply for your visa at the consulate of the country where you’ll spend the most time.
In Switzerland, it is advisable to carry your passport at all times. Swiss citizens are also required to carry identification, so visitors must be prepared to identify themselves as well.
How Do I Get a Visa for Switzerland?
For those who require a visa, the first step is to apply at the nearest Swiss consulate in your country. You will need to submit two recent passport-sized photographs along with a valid travel document (passport) that has an expiry date at least three months beyond the date of the requested visa.
Moreover, you may be asked for additional documents, such as a return ticket, proof of full medical insurance for your stay, and evidence that you can support yourself financially during your visit. Additionally, it is necessary to provide proof of your civil status, details about your accommodation, and documents that validate that your visit is for tourism purposes.
Schengen visas cost €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12; it’s important to note that there is no charge for children under 6. Visas can only be extended in exceptional circumstances.
To find a list of Swiss embassies and consulates, refer to the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). Most embassy offices are located in Bern, while Zürich and Geneva have multiple consulates.
Regarding working holidays, EU citizens, as well as Norwegians and Icelanders, can work in Switzerland for up to 90 days a year without requiring a permit. However, other foreigners and EU citizens planning longer engagements will need to apply for a permit. For more information, visit the State Secretariat for Migration online.
Does Switzerland Have Any COVID-19 Entry Restrictions?
Currently, travelers are not required to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon arrival in Switzerland. Additionally, no proof of recovery or recent testing is mandatory. While masks are not required, they are advised in crowded indoor spaces and on public transport.
This article was first published on August 18, 2021, and has been updated as of April 24, 2023.
