Visa information
Visa types
Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing time.
Short stay visa
Short stay visa entitles an applicant, who does not hold a residence permit, to stay in Switzerland for an uninterrupted period or a total of successive periods of stays that does not exceed 90 days in every six months since the date of first entry. Switzerland is one of the 26 European countries forming the Schengen area which have no border controls between them.
In case of transit visas, the duration is authorized in accordance with the period of stay required for the transit.
After scrutinizing the visa application by the Embassy, your application may have the following
- Visa applied for is granted.
- Further documentation is requested.
- Applicant is requested to appear for a personal interview.
- The application is rejected.
Common Schengen information
Short stay visa applications cannot be submitted more than 180 days in advance before the proposed date of travel.
However, they must be submitted at least 15 calendar days prior to the proposed date of travel. VFS Global is the outsourcing office responsible for the reception and release of passports for short stay visa applications.
Special instructions
- Application can be submitted only 180 days prior to the date of departure.
- Passport must have at least 2 blank pages
- Passport should be valid for at least 3 months longer than the intended stay.
Business
-
Overview
Business visa application is applicable in case you are travelling for business purposes. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days. This visa will be issued for business purposes only; for gainful professional activities (even if the work is not financially rewarded) you have to apply for a work permit.
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Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35
Please note:
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Student
-
Overview
This is applicable to students, studying in Switzerland. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Visit
-
Overview
This visa is for applicants who intend to travel to Switzerland with an invitation from their relatives or friends. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Tourism
-
Overview
Tourist visa application is applicable in case you are travelling for tourism purposes. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Cultural
-
Overview
This is applicable if you are travelling to Switzerland for participating in a cultural event. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Sport
-
Overview
This is applicable if you are travelling to Switzerland to participate in a sport event. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Official
-
Overview
This is applicable if you are travelling to Switzerland with an official purpose of visit. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.
Medical
-
Overview
This is applicable if you are travelling to Switzerland to receive a medical treatment. This visa is given for a travel period of less than 90 days.
-
Visa fees
Category Visa fee in RUB Visa fee in EUR Adult visa 8700 90 Children between 6 – 12 years 4350 45 Schengen visa – For the citizens of following countries: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Ukraine. 3400 35 Please note:
- Children under 6 years are exempt to pay visa fee.
- All visa fees and service charges are payable in cash/card/online.
- The applicable visa fee in rubles is as per the current exchange rate. It is subject to change without notice.
- Applicants shall be levied a service charge of RUB 2038.
-
Documents required
Travel insurance is mandatory for all Schengen countries. If you have not purchased, please click here
The detailed lists of documents for each visa category in English, German, French or Russian language can be found here.
Please kindly print out, fill in and sign the consent for processing of personal data. This document needs to be filled in and signed by the applicant only.
For underaged applicants it is necessary to indicate applicant’s details in the upper part of the document, and in the second paragraph it is necessary to indicate the details of one of the parents or legal guardians. Document also needs to be signed by a parent or legal guardian in this case.
-
Photo specifications
Note: we regret we cannot accept photographs that do not meet these requirements.
Please provide 2 recent passport photographs, not older than 6 months (size 3,5 – 4,5 cm, no copy or scanned photograph).
The photographs should be in colour and:
- Taken against a light background (white or off-white) so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.
- Have a clear share quality with a face in focus.
- Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print).
- Depict a full non-smiling face (without sunglasses, a hat/cap or other head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of their religious belief or ethnic background).
Note: please follow these instructions carefully.
-
Processing time
Usually, processing time for visa applications is 15 calendar days (starting from the time when the Embassy received the application, not including the transportation time), counting from when all requested documents have been submitted. This period may be extended in specific cases, notably when further scrutiny of the application is required, for example, when an applicant must come to an interview or submit additional documentation requested by the Embassy. During certain times of the year, the processing time can be longer due to the high volume of applications. It is recommended to submit your visa application at least 2 weeks prior to the date of travel date and if possible, even earlier ahead of the holiday period.
Please note that the application processing time and decisions on visa applications are the sole prerogative of the Embassy. VFS Global has no role to play in these areas of the application process.
-
Download form
Applicants who wish to obtain a Switzerland visa application form, can download the requisite form here.
Please note the instructions mentioned below while printing.
Download visa applications forms
Visa Application Form Visa C
Please note:
- Number of pages: 6.
- You can also obtain this form from the visa application centre.
Authorization
Authorization form needs to be filled in by all applicants along with the application form in case documents are submitted by representative.
To download a form:
- Click on the form link.
- When the form opens, save the form on your computer.
OR
- Press the right button on your mouse on the required link.
- Select Save Target As from the list.
- Save the form on your computer.