Starting from 14.03.2013 all diplomatic representations of the Schengen member states in Ivory Coast 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. 

Visa Information System (VIS)

If no scan of your fingerprints has been captured yet, personal appearance when applying for a Schengen visa is mandatory.

If you have been issued a Schengen visa that included biometric data capture (fingerprints and facial image) you are not required to recapture your biometric data and personal appearance is not necessary. However, all of the following requirements have to be met in order to be exempt of the biometric data capture:

• You have a copy of your previous Schengen visa
• Your biometric data was captured within the last 59 months.

If you are not sure or do not remember whether your fingerprints have been captured for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you have to appear in person.

Personal appearances and fingerprint scan is not mandatory for children under the age of 12.

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.

SEM – Visa Application Form

• Tourist Visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 1.0 MB, English)
• Visitor's Visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 1.1 MB, English)
• Business Visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 1.1 MB, English)
• Medical Treatment Visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 1.1 MB, English)
• Official Visa (for owners of diplomatic or service passports only) (PDF, 2 Pages, 1.0 MB, English)

SEM – Number 8 (For hosts in Switzerland) of FAQ – Frequently asked questions

SEM – Factsheet on letter of invitation

SEM – Information on Declaration of Sponsorship

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) – MRTD Photo Guidelines

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.