The new VACs, which will start operations on January 29 and be managed by the Swiss Embassy’s commercial partner TLScontact, are expected to provide increased access and enhanced administrative services, which also include biometric data implementation. 

Applicants to Switzerland are required to make online appointments at TLScontact’s website  and will be accepted on an appointment basis at the centers to submit required documents. 

The VACs are authorized by the Swiss Embassy in China to accept applications for short stay individual visa (business, tourism, ADS Groups, family friends visit, medical treatment, culture and sport), and provide administrative support services, such as the collection of visa applications and return of passports in sealed decision envelopes to applicants. They have no role or influence over the outcome of an application. The decision to issue or refuse a visa or request additional documents is made solely by Swiss competent migration authorities, in accordance with Switzerland’s immigration visa rules and guidelines. 

“Together with the existing services offered in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the new Visa Application Centers are expected to vastly facilitate the visa application process, especially for residents from nearby cities and areas,” said Swiss Ambassador to China Jean-Jacques de Dardel. “Switzerland is acknowledged as one of the best places in the world to live, study, travel to and do business thanks to a favorable environment. Switzerland and China have also long been enjoying dynamic bilateral relations. We definitely welcome more visitors and investors from China.” 

Boasting magnificent landscape and sceneries, Switzerland has been of particular appeal to Chinese tourists. The manifold and vibrant culture, art, music scenes and world-class events such as the Art Basel and the Lucerne Music Festival have been attracting more and more Chinese visitors in recent years. 

In 2015, overnight stays from Chinese tourists in Switzerland came to a record number of over 1.6 million. China now is the fourth source of tourists to Switzerland and the first from Asia. 

In addition to the new initiative, Switzerland has been working with Chinese authorities and partners to open additional 9 VACs in the coming months across China. It is also making proactive endeavors, such as mobile biometry, to facilitate the issuance of visas for Chinese citizens. 

As from October 2015, all applicants are required to provide their biometric data - 10 fingerprints and digital photo - when applying for a Schengen visa. Short stay individual visa applications of Chinese nationals to Switzerland are being processed within 48 hours at the Embassy.

Swiss Visa Application Centre as annexed: