Print page

Application for Schengen visa and procedure

Since 02.11.2015 all diplomatic representations of the Schengen member states in India have to capture the biometric data (finger scans and facial image) of persons applying for a Schengen visa. The data will be kept in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years. For further information:

Data protection Visa Information System (VIS)

If your finger scans have not been collected yet, personal appearance of the applicants is mandatory when applying for a Schengen visa. Personal appearance and fingerprint scan is not necessary for children under the age of 12 years.

If your finger scans were collected within the last 59 months and a visa with the mention "VIS" has been granted, then you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application(s) and personal appearance is not necessary. Please provide copy of your visa sticker issued after 02.11.2015 with the “VIS” mention.

You will still have to appear in person to give your fingerprints in case the previously collected fingerprints prove to be of insufficient quality.

The Swiss representation still reserves the right to ask the applicant to appear for a personal interview after checking his application.

Processing time for a visa application: 7 – 10 working days after submission at any VFS application centre in India.

As a general rule, a decision is taken by the Consulate within 15 days. This period may, in individual cases, be extended.

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

It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before the planned journey.  

The reasons for refusal are notified to the applicant using a standard form.

You have the right to appeal within 30 days of receipt of the refusal. For information on appeal procedures, please refer to the webpage of the State Secretariat for Migration.

SEM

Biometric data (fingerprints) are generally collected every 59 months from the age of 12 years from the first recording.  

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 or Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

Citizens of the EU and the EFTA and their family members

If you wish to complain about the behavior of the consular staff and, if applicable, about the external service provider or about the process, please contact the competent representation in writing.

Start of page
Last update 07.08.2024