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Visas – entry to and residence in Switzerland

Various regulations apply for entering Switzerland. A basic distinction is made between citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries and those of other countries. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is the responsible authority in Switzerland.

SEM

Since Switzerland’s adherence to the Schengen and Dublin agreements came into force (12 December 2008), Swiss representations abroad are able to issue certain categories of visa, depending on the length of stay and purpose of the journey in Switzerland.

Important Notice on VFS Visa Application

Following a regular public procurement procedure conducted by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, a new contract has been awarded for the operation of Visa Application Centres. As of 1 July 2025, Schengen visa applications for Switzerland and all countries represented by Switzerland in Nepal (Liechtenstein, Poland, Belgium, Slovakia and Latvia)will be processed by VFS Global, the newly appointed external service provider.

A new website providing comprehensive information on the visa application process, required documentation, service fees, and available services will go live on 26 May 2025 and can be accessed via the following link.

Appointment bookings will open on 2 June 2025. Please note that appointments can only be scheduled from this date onwards.

We kindly ask all applicants to refrain from attempting to book an appointment until the system is officially active.
 

Your Schengen visa application step by step

As of 1st November 2024, due to an update in Schengen rules, be aware that Schengen visa processing times may take longer than 15 days, especially during visa high season.

This change applies not only to Switzerland, but also to travel to the countries represented, such as Liechtenstein, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia and Latvia.

We therefore recommend all applicants to anticipate and organize their travel plan and visa application accordingly.

An appointment can be booked as early as 6 months prior to the date of your departure flight.

Schengen Visa and Fraudulent Practice

The Embassy of Switzerland in Nepal would like to alert you to the existence of fraudulent practices and offers in connection with the granting of visas and strongly advises you not to follow them.

Indeed, it happens that companies fraudulently offer their services on websites claiming to be able to help you to obtain an appointment or a visa. In return for information, they demand a fee. Please note that only the information on the official website of the Embassy is valid.

Please note: the visa application form and the appointment system are free of charge.

Further Information:

Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days

For persons wishing to enter Switzerland for a short stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period: for example, in a context of tourism, a visit to relatives or friends, short-term language studies, participating in a conference or in sporting/cultural events, etc.

National visa for a stay of more than 90 days

For persons wishing to enter Switzerland for a stay of more than 90 days within a 180-day period. It is subject to the authorisation of the cantonal migration authority competent for the intended place of residence. For example: long-term student, family reunification, marriage in Switzerland, etc.

Airport transit visa

For citizens of certain countries who need a transit visa even if they are staying in the international transit area of the airport and do not enter the Schengen territory.

Labour / Work permits

Admission of foreign workers to an employer in Switzerland is subject to the authorisation of the competent cantonal authority. The entry visa is granted only when the requested authorisations have been delivered.

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Last update 06.05.2025