Visa Information

Overview

This visa is for applicants who intend to travel to Switzerland as their main destination for holiday and recreation purposes.

Schengen visa application for stays up to 90 days 

Attention: Before applying for a Schengen visa:

• You may schedule an appointment up to 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).
• Please cancel your appointment when you do no longer plan to travel to Switzerland in order to allow other applicants to make their trip.

Persons subject to visa requirements

For the list of nationalities subject to a visa obligation, you can consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM

For the list of countries whose nationals or specific categories of such third country nationals who are subject to prior consultation Click here

Validity of the visa

Citizens of non-Schengen countries, regardless of their visa obligation status, might enter and remain within the Schengen Area without a residence permit for up to 90 days per 180-day period starting from the date of first entry. For multiple entries/departures to and from the Schengen area (including Switzerland) it is recommended to consult the short-stay calculator.

Please note that all decisions regarding the issuance, the duration and number of entries for a visa are at the sole prerogative of the Swiss diplomatic and consular representations.

The acceptance of a visa application and documents by VFS Global does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Once an application is forwarded to the Swiss diplomatic and consular representations, they may request more documentation or make further requests from the applicant in order to process the application.

Note:

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy/Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Jurisdiction:

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at Visa Application Centers in the United States (e.g. Green Card holders; F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

Please follow the table below to determine the jurisdiction for your application

Representation agreement

If a State does not have its proper visa section in a country or region, the delivery of a Schengen visa can be delegated to another Schengen State member with an agreement between both countries concerned.

The agreement allows the appointed representation to represent and handle Schengen visa applications within its own competence without consulting the other represented State.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

EXEMPTIONS

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference.
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The visa facilitation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation is no longer applicable.

Russian nationals are to be charged the same visa fee as all other applicants.

Note:

Incomplete Applications and Refund Policy:

VFS Global Service Fees are not refundable

Documents Required

1. Online visa application form - Please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/book-an-appointment to start your visa application journey and fill the online form.

2. Documents required for short stay visa please click here - Checklist

3. Personal Appearance

   If your fingerprints have NOT been collected within the last 59 months by a Schengen visa section, your personal appearance is mandatory

   If your fingerprints WERE collected within the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application and your personal appearance is not necessary. This means that you can mail your visa application file to the competent VFS center. Please provide a photocopy of all Schengen visas issued within the last 59 months, in addition to all other required documents. In case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality, you will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints. For instructions on how to send your visa application via mail, please click here - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   Personal appearance and fingerprints are not necessary for children under the age of 12.

   The Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking the application.

Photo Specification

Photo Specifications

• Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:
• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.
• Note: For Mail in applications photo needs to be in high resolution at 300 DPI and the dimension is 580 x 446.

Processing Time

The usual processing time for visa applications takes upto 15 calendar days (starting from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives the application, excluding transportation time). This period begins once all required documents have been submitted.

In certain cases, processing time may be extended, particularly when further examination of the application is required – for example, if the applicant must attend an interview or provide additional documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate. Processing time may also be longer due to a high volume of applications.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/e6139169-6ec7-4374-a50a-eb2333411e3f_en

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).

Please note that decisions regarding visa applications and their processing time are the sole responsibility of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global is not involved in these areas of the application process.

Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category.

Download Forms

Fill online form while booking appointment

You can fill out the form free of charge while booking an appointment. After entering your information, you can download the PDF form. Print the form and submit it with your application.

Documents required for short stay visa please click here

Download form for mail-in applications.

• Please click here to download form required for application by mail - Visa Application Form
• The requirements for submitting the application by mail can be found here “Apply by Mail?”.

Overview

This visa is for applicants who intend to travel to Switzerland as their main destination for business purposes like meetings, conferences, seminars, trade fairs, etc.

Schengen visa application for stays up to 90 days

Attention: Before applying for a Schengen visa:

• You may schedule an appointment up to 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).
• Please cancel your appointment when you do no longer plan to travel to Switzerland in order to allow other applicants to make their trip.

Persons subject to visa requirements

For the list of nationalities subject to a visa obligation, you can consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM

For the list of countries whose nationals or specific categories of such third country nationals who are subject to prior consultation Click here

Validity of the visa

Citizens of non-Schengen countries, regardless of their visa obligation status, might enter and remain within the Schengen Area without a residence permit for up to 90 days per 180-day period starting from the date of first entry. For multiple entries/departures to and from the Schengen area (including Switzerland) it is recommended to consult the short-stay calculator.

Please note that all decisions regarding the issuance , the duration and number of entries for a visa are at the sole prerogative of the Swiss diplomatic and consular representations .

The acceptance of a visa application and documents by VFS Global does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Once an application is forwarded to the Swiss diplomatic and consular representations , they may request more documentation or make further requests from the applicant in order to process the application.

Note:

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy/Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Jurisdiction:

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at the Visa Application Center in the United States (e.g. Green Card holders; F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

Please follow the table below to determine the jurisdiction for your application

Representation agreement

If a State does not have its proper visa section in a country or region, the delivery of a Schengen visa can be delegated to another Schengen State member with an agreement between both countries concerned.

The agreement allows the appointed representation to represent and handle Schengen visa applications within its own competence without consulting the other represented State.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

EXEMPTIONS

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference.
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The visa facilitation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation is no longer applicable.

Russian nationals are to be charged the same visa fee as all other applicants.

Note:

Incomplete Applications and Refund Policy:

VFS Global Service Fees are not refundable

Documents Required

1. Online visa application form - Please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/book-an-appointment to start your visa application journey and fill the online form.

2. Documents required for short stay visa please click here - Checklist

3. Personal Appearance

   If your fingerprints have NOT been collected within the last 59 months by a Schengen visa section, your personal appearance is mandatory

   If your fingerprints WERE collected within the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application and your personal appearance is not necessary. This means that you can mail your visa application file to the competent VFS center. Please provide a photocopy of all Schengen visas issued within the last 59 months, in addition to all other required documents. In case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality, you will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints. For instructions on how to send your visa application via mail, please click here - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   Personal appearance and fingerprints are not necessary for children under the age of 12.

   The Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking the application.

Photo Specification

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.
• Note: For Mail in applications photo needs to be in high resolution at 300 DPI and the dimension is 580 x 446.

Processing Time

The usual processing time for visa applications takes upto 15 calendar days (starting from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives the application, excluding transportation time). This period begins once all required documents have been submitted.

In certain cases, processing time may be extended, particularly when further examination of the application is required – for example, if the applicant must attend an interview or provide additional documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate. Processing time may also be longer due to a high volume of applications.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/e6139169-6ec7-4374-a50a-eb2333411e3f_en

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).

Please note that decisions regarding visa applications and their processing time are the sole responsibility of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global is not involved in these areas of the application process.

Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category.

Visa for persons who have already received an authorization from a Swiss cantonal authority (initiated by the employer in Switzerland): 7 calendar days

Download Forms

Fill online form while booking appointment

You can fill out the form free of charge while booking an appointment. After entering your information, you can download the PDF form. Print the form and submit it with your application.

Documents required for short stay visa please click here

Download form for mail-in applications.

• Please click here to download form required for application by mail - Visa Application Form
• The requirements for submitting the application by mail can be found here “Apply by Mail?”.

Overview

This visa is for applicants who intend to travel to Switzerland as their main destination with an invitation from their relatives or friends who are nationals or residents of Switzerland.

Schengen visa application for stays up to 90 days 

Attention: Before applying for a Schengen visa:

• You may schedule an appointment up to 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).
• Please cancel your appointment when you do no longer plan to travel to Switzerland in order to allow other applicants to make their trip.

Persons subject to visa requirements

For the list of nationalities subject to a visa obligation, you can consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM

For the list of countries whose nationals or specific categories of such third country nationals who are subject to prior consultation Click here

Validity of the visa

Citizens of non-Schengen countries, regardless of their visa obligation status, might enter and remain within the Schengen Area without a residence permit for up to 90 days per 180-day period starting from the date of first entry. For multiple entries/departures to and from the Schengen area (including Switzerland) it is recommended to consult the short-stay calculator.

Please note that all decisions regarding the issuance , the duration and number of entries for a visa are at the sole prerogative of the Swiss diplomatic and consular representations.

The acceptance of a visa application and documents by VFS Global does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Once an application is forwarded to the Swiss diplomatic and consular representations , they may request more documentation or make further requests from the applicant in order to process the application.

Note:

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy/Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Jurisdiction:

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at Visa Application Centers in the United States (e.g. Green Card holders; F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

Please follow the table below to determine the jurisdiction for your application

Representation agreement

If a State does not have its proper visa section in a country or region, the delivery of a Schengen visa can be delegated to another Schengen State member with an agreement between both countries concerned.

The agreement allows the appointed representation to represent and handle Schengen visa applications within its own competence without consulting the other represented State.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

EXEMPTIONS

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference.
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The visa facilitation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation is no longer applicable.

Russian nationals are to be charged the same visa fee as all other applicants.

Note:

Incomplete Applications and Refund Policy:

VFS Global Service Fees are not refundable

Documents Required

1. Online visa application form - Please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/book-an-appointment to start your visa application journey and fill the online form

2. Documents required for short stay visa please click here - Checklist

3. Personal Appearance

   If your fingerprints have NOT been collected within the last 59 months by a Schengen visa section, your personal appearance is mandatory

   If your fingerprints WERE collected within the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application and your personal appearance is not necessary. This means that you can mail your visa application file to the competent VFS center.. Please provide a photocopy of all Schengen visas issued within the last 59 months, in addition to all other required documents. In case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality, you will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints. For instructions on how to send your visa application via mail, please click here - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   Personal appearance and fingerprints are not necessary for children under the age of 12.

   The Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking the application.

Photo Specification

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.
• Note: For Mail in applications photo needs to be in high resolution at 300 DPI and the dimension is 580 x 446.

Processing Time

The usual processing time for visa applications takes upto 15 calendar days (starting from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives the application, excluding transportation time). This period begins once all required documents have been submitted.

In certain cases, processing time may be extended, particularly when further examination of the application is required – for example, if the applicant must attend an interview or provide additional documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate. Processing time may also be longer due to a high volume of applications.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/e6139169-6ec7-4374-a50a-eb2333411e3f_en

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).

Please note that decisions regarding visa applications and their processing time are the sole responsibility of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global is not involved in these areas of the application process.

Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category.

Download Forms

Fill online form while booking appointment

You can fill out the form free of charge while booking an appointment. After entering your information, you can download the PDF form. Print the form and submit it with your application.

Documents required for short stay visa please click here

Download form for mail-in applications.

• Please click here to download form required for application by mail - Visa Application Form
• The requirements for submitting the application by mail can be found here “Apply by Mail?”.

Overview

This visa is for applicants who intend to travel to Switzerland as their main destination for business purposes like meetings, conferences, seminars, trade fairs on invitation by a foreign mission or an international organization in Switzerland.

Schengen visa application for stays up to 90 days 

Attention: Before applying for a Schengen visa:

• You may schedule an appointment up to 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).
• Please cancel your appointment when you do no longer plan to travel to Switzerland in order to allow other applicants to make their trip.

Persons subject to visa requirements

For the list of nationalities subject to a visa obligation, you can consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM

For the list of countries whose nationals or specific categories of such third country nationals who are subject to prior consultation Click here

Validity of the visa

Citizens of non-Schengen countries, regardless of their visa obligation status, might enter and remain within the Schengen Area without a residence permit for up to 90 days per 180-day period starting from the date of first entry. For multiple entries/departures to and from the Schengen area (including Switzerland) it is recommended to consult the short-stay calculator.

Please note that all decisions regarding the issuance, the duration and number of entries for a visa are at the sole prerogative of the Embassy/Consulate.

The acceptance of a visa application and documents by VFS Global does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Once an application is forwarded to the Embassy/Consulate, they may request more documentation or make further requests from the applicant in order to process the application.

Note:

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy/Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Jurisdiction:

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at the Visa Application Center in the United States (e.g. Green Card holders; F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

Please follow the table below to determine the jurisdiction for your application

Representation agreement

If a State does not have its proper visa section in a country or region, the delivery of a Schengen visa can be delegated to another Schengen State member with an agreement between both countries concerned.

The agreement allows the appointed representation to represent and handle Schengen visa applications within its own competence without consulting the other represented State.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

EXEMPTIONS

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference.
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The visa facilitation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation is no longer applicable.

Russian nationals are to be charged the same visa fee as all other applicants.

Note:

Incomplete Applications and Refund Policy:

VFS Global Service Fees are not refundable

Documents Required

1. Online visa application form - Please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/book-an-appointment to start your visa application journey and fill the online form.

2. Documents required for short stay visa please click here - Checklist

3. Personal Appearance

   If your fingerprints have NOT been collected within the last 59 months by a Schengen visa section, your personal appearance is mandatory

   If your fingerprints WERE collected within the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application and your personal appearance is not necessary. This means that you can mail your visa application file to the competent VFS center. Please provide a photocopy of all Schengen visas issued within the last 59 months, in addition to all other required documents. In case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality, you will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints. For instructions on how to send your visa application via mail, please click here - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   Personal appearance and fingerprints are not necessary for children under the age of 12.

   The Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking the application.

Photo Specification

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.
• Note: For Mail in applications photo needs to be in high resolution at 300 DPI and the dimension is 580 x 446.

Processing Time

The usual processing time for visa applications takes upto 15 calendar days (starting from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives the application, excluding transportation time). This period begins once all required documents have been submitted.

In certain cases, processing time may be extended, particularly when further examination of the application is required – for example, if the applicant must attend an interview or provide additional documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate. Processing time may also be longer due to a high volume of applications.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/e6139169-6ec7-4374-a50a-eb2333411e3f_en

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).

Please note that decisions regarding visa applications and their processing time are the sole responsibility of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global is not involved in these areas of the application process.

Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category.

Download Forms

Fill online form while booking appointment

• You can fill out the form free of charge while booking an appointment. After entering your information, you can download the PDF form. Print the form and submit it with your application.
• Documents required for short stay visa please click here

Download form for mail-in applications.

• Please click here to download form required for application by mail - Visa Application Form
• The requirements for submitting the application by mail can be found here “Apply by Mail?”.

Overview

This visa is for applicants who arrive by airplane, transit through Switzerland and stay in the airport international transit area.

Schengen visa application for stays up to 90 days 

Attention: Before applying for a Schengen visa:

• You may schedule an appointment up to 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).
• Please cancel your appointment when you do no longer plan to travel to Switzerland in order to allow other applicants to make their trip.

Persons subject to visa requirements

For the list of nationalities subject to an airport transit visa obligation, please consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM

For the list of countries whose nationals or specific categories of such third country nationals who are subject to prior consultation Click here

Validity of the visa

Citizens of non-Schengen countries, regardless of their visa obligation status, might enter and remain within the Schengen Area without a residence permit for up to 90 days per 180-day period starting from the date of first entry. For multiple entries/departures to and from the Schengen area (including Switzerland) it is recommended to consult the short-stay calculator.

Please note that all decisions regarding the issuance, the duration and number of entries for a visa are at the sole prerogative of the Embassy/Consulate.

The acceptance of a visa application and documents by VFS Global does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Once an application is forwarded to the Embassy/Consulate, they may request more documentation or make further requests from the applicant in order to process the application.

Note:

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy/Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Jurisdiction:

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at the Visa Application Center in the United States (e.g. Green Card holders; F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

Please follow the table below to determine the jurisdiction for your application

Representation agreement

If a State does not have its proper visa section in a country or region, the delivery of a Schengen visa can be delegated to another Schengen State member with an agreement between both countries concerned.

The agreement allows the appointed representation to represent and handle Schengen visa applications within its own competence without consulting the other represented State.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

EXEMPTIONS

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference.
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The visa facilitation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation is no longer applicable.

Russian nationals are to be charged the same visa fee as all other applicants.

Note:

Incomplete Applications and Refund Policy:

VFS Global Service Fees are not refundable

Documents Required

1. Online visa application form - Please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/book-an-appointment to start your visa application journey and fill the online form.

2. Documents required for short stay visa please click here - Checklist

3. Personal Appearance

   If your fingerprints have NOT been collected within the last 59 months by a Schengen visa section, your personal appearance is mandatory

   If your fingerprints WERE collected within the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application and your personal appearance is not necessary. This means that you can mail your visa application file to the competent VFS center. Please provide a photocopy of all Schengen visas issued within the last 59 months, in addition to all other required documents. In case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality, you will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints. For instructions on how to send your visa application via mail, please click here - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   No personal appearance is required. Please submit your visa application by mail: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   Personal appearance and fingerprints are not necessary for children under the age of 12.

   The Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking the application.

Photo Specification

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.
• Note: For Mail in applications photo needs to be in high resolution at 300 DPI and the dimension is 580 x 446.

Processing Time

The usual processing time for visa applications takes upto 15 calendar days (starting from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives the application, excluding transportation time). This period begins once all required documents have been submitted.

In certain cases, processing time may be extended, particularly when further examination of the application is required – for example, if the applicant must attend an interview or provide additional documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate. Processing time may also be longer due to a high volume of applications.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/e6139169-6ec7-4374-a50a-eb2333411e3f_en

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).

Please note that decisions regarding visa applications and their processing time are the sole responsibility of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global is not involved in these areas of the application process.

Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category.

Download Forms

Fill online form while booking appointment

• You can fill out the form free of charge while booking an appointment. After entering your information, you can download the PDF form. Print the form and submit it with your application.
• Documents required for airport transit visa please click here

Download form for mail-in applications.

• Please click here to download form required for application by mail - Visa Application Form
• The requirements for submitting the application by mail can be found here “Apply by Mail?”.

Overview

Visa for which an authorization has been given directly in Switzerland.

If your employer/school/family member has applied for your permit in Switzerland and it has been granted, you must still apply for an entry visa with the competent Swiss representation abroad.

Please follow the instructions below to proceed after you have received your authorization

Before booking an appointment with VFS, email to the competent Swiss representation for document verification:

• Copy of the cantonal authorization
• Copy of your last Schengen visa
• Indicate your place/state of residence

Please include the Swiss representation’s response to your email with your visa application, see point 7 on the checklist.

Schengen visa application for stays up to 90 days 

Attention: Before applying for a Schengen visa:

• You may schedule an appointment up to 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 7 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).
• Please cancel your appointment when you do no longer plan to travel to Switzerland in order to allow other applicants to make their trip.

Persons subject to visa requirements

For the list of nationalities subject to a visa obligation, you can consult the website of the State Secretariat for Migration SEM

For the list of countries whose nationals or specific categories of such third country nationals who are subject to prior consultation Click here

Validity of the visa

Citizens of non-Schengen countries, regardless of their visa obligation status, might enter and remain within the Schengen Area without a residence permit for up to 90 days per 180-day period starting from the date of first entry. For multiple entries/departures to and from the Schengen area (including Switzerland) it is recommended to consult the short-stay calculator.

Please note that all decisions regarding the issuance, the duration and number of entries for a visa are at the sole prerogative of the Embassy/Consulate.

The acceptance of a visa application and documents by VFS Global does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Once an application is forwarded to the Embassy/Consulate, they may request more documentation or make further requests from the applicant in order to process the application.

Note:

If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy/Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Jurisdiction:

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at the Visa Application Center in the United States (e.g. Green Card holders; F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

Please follow the table below to determine the jurisdiction for your application

Representation agreement

If a State does not have its proper visa section in a country or region, the delivery of a Schengen visa can be delegated to another Schengen State member with an agreement between both countries concerned.

The agreement allows the appointed representation to represent and handle Schengen visa applications within its own competence without consulting the other represented State.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

EXEMPTIONS

The visa fee shall be waived for applicants belonging to one of the following categories:

1. children under six years.
2. school pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training.
3. researchers, as defined in point (2) of Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research or participating in a scientific seminar or conference.
4. representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations.
5. holders of diplomatic and service passports.

The visa facilitation agreement between the EU and the Russian Federation is no longer applicable.

Russian nationals are to be charged the same visa fee as all other applicants.

Note:

Incomplete Applications and Refund Policy:

VFS Global Service Fees are not refundable

Documents Required

1. Online visa application form - Please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/book-an-appointment to start your visa application journey and fill the online form.

2. Documents required for short stay visa please click here - Checklist

3. Personal Appearance

   If your fingerprints have NOT been collected within the last 59 months by a Schengen visa section, your personal appearance is mandatory

   If your fingerprints WERE collected within the last 59 months for a Schengen visa, you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application and your personal appearance is not necessary. This means that you can mail your visa application file to the competent VFS center. Please provide a photocopy of all Schengen visas issued within the last 59 months, in addition to all other required documents. In case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality, you will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints. For instructions on how to send your visa application via mail, please click here - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/che/apply-visa

   Personal appearance and fingerprints are not necessary for children under the age of 12.

   The Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking the application.

Photo Specification

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.
• Note: For Mail in applications photo needs to be in high resolution at 300 DPI and the dimension is 580 x 446.

Processing Time

The usual processing time for authorized visa applications takes up to 7 calendar days (starting from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives the application, excluding transportation time). This period begins once all required documents have been submitted.

In certain cases, processing time may be extended, particularly when further examination of the application is required – for example, if the applicant must attend an interview or provide additional documents requested by the Embassy/Consulate. Processing time may also be longer due to a high volume of applications.

Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

List of countries: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/e6139169-6ec7-4374-a50a-eb2333411e3f_en

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before your departure date, but no later than 15 calendar days prior to departure (calculated from the date the Embassy/Consulate receives your application, excluding transportation time).

Please note that decisions regarding visa applications and their processing time are the sole responsibility of the Embassy or Consulate. VFS Global is not involved in these areas of the application process.

Each application must comply with the guidelines applicable for your visa category.

Download Forms

Fill online form while booking appointment

• You can fill out the form free of charge while booking an appointment. After entering your information, you can download the PDF form. Print the form and submit it with your application.
• Documents required for short stay visa please click here

Download form for mail-in applications.

• Please click here to download form required for application by mail - Visa Application Form
• The requirements for submitting the application by mail can be found here “Apply by Mail?”.