All applicants for a Schengen visa have to fill in the online Schengen visa application form through this link.

A printed hard copy of the form has to be submitted at the time of application.

Important: At the end of the online visa application process, please don’t forget to download and print the form. No copy of the form will be provided by email.

If for technical reasons the form is not downloadable, please keep your registration number safely and fill in manually the following pdf form additionally.

SEM – Visa Application Form

Checklist for Schengen visitor visa. (PDF, 2 Pages, 213.7 kB)

Checklist for Schengen tourist visa. (PDF, 2 Pages, 217.9 kB)

Checklist for Schengen official visa. (PDF, 1 Page, 230.6 kB)

Checklist for Schengen business visa (PDF, 2 Pages, 207.5 kB).

SEM – Number 4 (For hosts n Switzerland) of FAQ – Frequently asked questions

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.