Switzerland Visa – Requirements For Indians, How To Apply | OneVasco Blog

Switzerland is the perfect place to kickstart your European vacation. Its quaint little towns, stunning snowcapped mountains, lakes, and beautiful architecture will blow your mind.

To visit this stunning country, you need a Schengen visa. Here is everything you need to know about the Switzerland visa for Indians, how to apply for it, its fees, documents, and much more. Keep reading so you can bring home the best memories and chocolates from your Swiss trip!

Do Indians Need a Switzerland Visa?

Yes, Indians must secure a valid Switzerland visa to visit the country. Indians are eligible for the following types of tourist visas for Switzerland:

• Schengen Visa (Type C): It is a short-stay visa that allows you to enter Switzerland and other European countries for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days.

• National Visa (Type D): It is a long-stay visa that allows you to enter Switzerland and other European countries for more than 90 days.

Note: The application must be submitted directly to the Swiss Embassy for stays over 90 days (National Visa D).

Switzerland Visa for Indians

Applying for a Switzerland visa has become easier for Indians over the years. The process remains lengthy; applicants must submit their application online via VFS, sign for a biometrics appointment, submit their passport for stamping, and finally get their visa.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of different tourist visa types that Indians are available to travel to Switzerland:

Visa Name	Entry	Stay Duration	Validity	Fees (INR)	Processing Time	Form
Schengen Visa (Type C)	Single, Double, or Multiple Entries.	Up to 90 days within 180 days.	6 months to 5 years	Adults: INR 8,100 Children aged from 6 to 12: INR 4,050   Children up to 6 years old: Free Service Fees: 1850	15-45 days	Sticker Visa
National Visa (Type D)	Multiple Entry	Over 90 days within a 180-day period.	6 months to 5 years	Adults: INR 8,100 Children aged from 6 to 12: INR 4,050   Children up to 6 years old: Free Service Fees: 1850	15-45 days	Sticker Visa

Switzerland Visa Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens

Switzerland visa eligibility for Indians is based on the type of tourist visa you wish to obtain:

Switzerland Visitor Visa

• A valid Indian passport with a minimum of 3 months validity and two blank pages.
• Two recent biometric photos
• Proof of accommodation or an invitation letter from the host
• Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of your stay or possibly a declaration of commitment
• A travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies, accidents, or repatriation in case of death
• Proof of entry and exit from the Schengen Area
  • Attach your return tickets.
• Proof that you can support yourself and your dependents during your trip (or have funding from someone else to fund your Switzerland trip).
  • You can attach your bank statements, sponsorship letters, and financial documents.
• Proof that you’ll not live in Switzerland for extended periods through frequent or successive visits or make Switzerland your primary home – display strong ties to your home country.
• You must have good character. If you have a criminal conviction or are a security risk to Switzerland, we may not be able to grant you a visa.
• You must meet the standard health criteria. You may have to submit a chest X-ray, a medical examination, or both as proof of your good health.

Important: You may be denied entry if you:

• are not a genuine visitor.
• do not meet the set character criteria.
• have had a change in circumstances since you were granted a visa.
• refuse to let the officials take your photo or to provide your fingerprints or an iris scan.
• cannot provide evidence of any onward travel or funds required to leave Switzerland.

Switzerland Visa Fees for Indians

Here’s a detailed breakdown of Switzerland tourist visa fees for Indians to help you streamline the online process!

Visa Name	Validity	Govt Fees (INR)	VFS
Schengen Visa (Type C)	6 months to 5 years	Adults: INR 8,100 Children aged from 6 to 12: INR 4,050   Children up to 6 years old: Free	Service Fees: 1850
National Visa (Type D)	6 months to 5 years	Adults: INR 8,100 Children aged from 6 to 12: INR 4,050   Children up to 6 years old: Free	Service Fees: 1850

Optional fees to expedite your visa process:

• OneVasco Fees: INR 2,500
• Courier service: INR 775
• SMS service: INR 390
• Premium lounge service: INR 3,385
• Courier assurance service: INR 385
• Form filling service: INR 2,915

Note: OneVasco helps you expedite your visa process and takes care of your visa documentation at a minimal cost.

Must Read: How to Book Your Visa Appointment for Switzerland?

Switzerland Visa Requirements & Documents for Indians

Let’s delve into Switzerland visa requirements for Indians so you are prepared for your trip:

Visa

• Visa Application Form: The primary step in your Switzerland visa application process is filling out a detailed application form.
• Health Insurance: Travel insurance is a mandatory visa requirement. It must cover up to €30,000 for medical emergencies and health issues in the Schengen area.

Personal Documents

Here is a detailed list of Switzerland visa documents for Indians to help you plan your trip:

• The original passport must have a minimum validity of 3 months.
• Two photographs (35 x 45 mm) with white background and matt finish. The photo must not be older than 6 months. You must not wear glasses, a hat or a cap.
• A cover letter with travel details/Introduction letter from the employer.
• Copy of travel insurance policy.
• Flight tickets to and from Switzerland.
• Itinerary of the trip.
• Income tax returns of the last 3 years.
• Proof of hotel accommodation
• Bank statement (last 6 months)
• Salary slip (previous 3 months)

Finance

• Proof of Funds: Indians must provide evidence of funds to get the visa. You can submit recent personal bank statements, pay slips, tax records, and sometimes credit card statements, sponsorship letters, and your sponsor’s financial documents.
• Proof of Employment: Indians must submit proof of employment, such as a no-objection certificate or a letter from their employer granting them leave from work to obtain a Switzerland visa.

Travel

• Proof of Hotel Reservation: You must provide proof of accommodation or a sponsor letter with dates for your stay in Switzerland.
• Return Flight Tickets: Indians must provide information about their entry and exit dates to complete the visa form.
• Internal Travel: You must provide details of your internal travel and multiple entries to Switzerland at the time of submission of your visa application.

Must Read: Switzerland Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

Switzerland Visa Process for Indians

The Switzerland visa process for Indians is straightforward and can be completed in one sitting.

Here’s a step-wise guide for the Switzerland visa application process for Indians:

Step 1: Visit the VFS Global website (Official partner for the Embassy of Switzerland in India)

Step 2: Choose your visa type to start your application.

Step 3: Download the application form to fill it out. All applicants must bring the form to the Visa Application Centre for in-person submission.

Step 4: Book your visa appointment via VFS for biometrics and application submission. You can choose the nearest center to your home.

Step 5: Pay your visa fees at the VFS Centre at your appointment.

Step 6: The processing time for a Schengen visa is 15-45 days. You can track your application status through your VFS application ID and password.

Step 7: You will be notified via email once the verdict is reached. You will be asked to collect your visa and passport from the VFS center.

Step 8: If approved, carrying your passport with the sticker visa is mandatory for a smooth trip to Switzerland. If denied, you can either submit your application for a visa appeal or start a new visa application.

Also Read: Switzerland Visa Appeal Guide for Indians

Switzerland Visitor Visa Approval Sample

Switzerland Visa Processing for Indians

The minimum processing time for a Switzerland visa is 15-45 days after you have submitted the application form. The verification period may take time, so plan your holiday accordingly and apply in advance.

Here’s the Switzerland visa processing time for Indians based on the type of visa they wish to obtain:

Visa Name	Entry	Validity	Processing Time
Schengen Visa (Type C)	Single, Double, or Multiple Entries.	6 months to 5 years	15-45 days
National Visa (Type D)	Multiple Entry	6 months to 5 years	15-45 days

Switzerland: Stay Duration, Validity, and Extension for Indians

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Switzerland visa validity for Indians so you don’t overstay your visit and make the most of your holiday:

Visa Name	Entry	Stay Duration	Validity	Extension
Schengen Visa (Type C)	Single, Double, or Multiple Entries.	Up to 90/180 days	6 months to 5 years	Not applicable for extension
National Visa (Type D)	Multiple Entry	Over 90/180 days	6 months to 5 years	Not applicable for extension

Extension Rules by the Government of Switzerland:

• Extension is applicable for Indians only in exceptional circumstances, such as a medical emergency or humanitarian reasons.
• You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires.
• There is no guarantee that your extension request will be approved.
• The local authorities in the Schengen state will decide whether to upload your request or deny it.

Read how to submit your extended visa with this expert blog on visa extension for Switzerland.

Top Mistakes While Applying for a Switzerland Visa

Here are some of the most common rejection reasons for Indians applying for a Switzerland visa. Make sure you avoid these mistakes when submitting your application:

1. Incorrect or Incomplete Application Forms: Ensure all fields are filled accurately and completely. Even minor errors can cause delays or rejections. Double-check all personal details, especially passport numbers.
2. Insufficient or Incorrect Documents: Provide all required documents, including clear passport copies, recent photographs that meet specifications, and proof of travel (flight and hotel bookings). Missing or unclear documents will cause problems.
3. Lack of Financial Proof: Switzerland authorities may require proof that you can financially support your stay. Provide recent bank statements to demonstrate sufficient funds.
4. Incorrect Photograph Submissions: The photos submitted must match the required specifications. Background color, size, and pose are all critical.
5. Criminal History: If you have a criminal history or background and do not disclose it to the authorities, it can cause visa rejection.

Switzerland Visa Centers in India

Here are some centers to address your Switzerland visa queries in India:

Embassy of Switzerland

• City: New Delhi
• Address: Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India
• Maps: https://www.openstreetmap.org/?mlat=28.59640000000000&mlon=77.18530000000000&zoom=15#map=15/28.59640/77.18530
• Phone: +91 11 4995 9500
• Email:
  • Embassy: [email protected]
  • Visa: [email protected]
  • Consular services: [email protected]
  • International Cooperation: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.eda.admin.ch/newdelhi

Here are the visa centers you must visit as a part of your visa application to Switzerland:

Bengaluru

• Address: 22, Gopalan Innovation Mall, Bannerghatta Main Rd, Sarakki Industrial Layout, 3rd Phase, J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076.
• Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cY2tLMMvYSiPm8ZGA
• Timings:
  • Business hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 – 16:00
  • Passport collection hours: Monday – Friday, 14:00 – 16:00

Mumbai

• Address: Visa Application Centre, VFS Global Services Pvt., Second Floor, Urmi Axis Building, Behind Famous Studio, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai Maharashtra 400 011 India
• Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wsXLr1pYVTGq7Pnz8
• Timings:
  • Business hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 – 16:00
  • Passport collection hours: Monday – Friday, 14:00 – 16:00

There are 13 visa centers across India where you can visit to complete your application. Here’s the list of cities for you to choose from: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/che/attend-centre

Top Reasons to Visit Switzerland

Climate & Top Seasons

Switzerland has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, varying with altitude:

• Summer (June-August): Warm weather is ideal for hiking, swimming in lakes, and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
• Autumn (September-November): Mild temperatures, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds. It is excellent for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
• Winter (December-February): Skiing and snowboarding season, especially in the Alps. Expect cold temperatures and snow.
• Spring (March-May): Blooming flowers, gradually warming temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer.

Must Read: Switzerland in January 

Swiss Culture

Switzerland is a multicultural country with four national languages. Experience rich traditions and unique cultural aspects:

• Enjoy traditional Swiss folk music, including yodeling and alphorn playing.
• Experience vibrant festivals in Switzerland like the Basel Carnival (Basler Fasnacht) and the Montreux Jazz Festival and Christmas markets.
• Explore traditional Swiss crafts, such as watchmaking and chocolate making at the Lindt factory.
• Enjoy Swiss cuisine and its famous foods, including fondue, raclette, and Swiss chocolate.

Attractions

Switzerland is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and charming cities:

• The Swiss Alps: Including iconic peaks like the Matterhorn and Jungfrau.
• Lake Geneva: A beautiful lake surrounded by charming towns and vineyards.
• Interlaken: A popular destination for outdoor activities and scenic views.
• Zermatt: A car-free village at the foot of the Matterhorn.
• Lucerne: A picturesque city with a medieval old town and Chapel Bridge.
• Zurich: A vibrant city with museums, art galleries, and a lively nightlife.
• Bern: The capital city with a well-preserved medieval old town.

Also Read: Switzerland in February 

Activities

Switzerland offers a wide range of activities for all interests:

• Hiking and trekking in the Alps.
• Skiing and snowboarding in world-class resorts.
• Swimming and boating in lakes.
• Sightseeing in charming towns and cities.
• Visiting museums and art galleries.
• Take scenic train rides, such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
• Enjoying fine dining and sampling Swiss chocolate and cheese.

Trip Cost

Switzerland is a relatively expensive country. A rough estimate for a mid-range traveler would be CHF 150-300 (INR 14,000 to 30,000) daily. Here are some tips to budget for your trip:

• Accommodation: Hotels in major cities and popular tourist areas can be expensive. Consider staying in guesthouses or apartments for more affordable options.
• Food: Dining out can be costly. Consider purchasing food from supermarkets or eating at local restaurants.
• Transportation: The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, which can be a cost-effective option.
• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, and other adventure sports can be expensive.

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey.

Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support
• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process
• Real-Time Tracking and Updates
• Transparent Communication
• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

Do Indians need a visa for Switzerland?

Yes, Indian passport holders require a valid Schengen visa to enter Switzerland for tourism, family or friend visits. You can apply for different visa types depending on the length of your stay and the number of times you wish to enter the country.

Is there a Visa on Arrival for Indians in Switzerland?

No, there is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indians visiting Switzerland. All Indians must apply for a Schengen visitor visa to visit Switzerland and other European countries under the Schengen territory.

Is a Switzerland visa easy to get for Indians?

Yes, obtaining a Switzerland visa is easy yet lengthy for Indians. Indians can get their visa approved within 45 days. So, as long as the correct documents are provided, the process is usually smooth.

What are the Switzerland visa fees for Indians?

The Switzerland visa fees for Indians are:

• Adults: INR 8,100
• Children aged from 6 to 12: INR 4,050
• Children up to 6 years old: Free
• Service Fees: INR 1850

What is the eligibility for a Switzerland visa for Indians?

Eligibility typically involves having a valid Indian passport with at least six months of validity, submission of necessary documents, a clean record, a clean bill of health, a NOC from your employer, and sufficient financial means for the stay.

What are the general requirements for a Switzerland visa for Indians?

The general requirements for a Switzerland visa are a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, financial proof, an NOC from your employer, and a sponsorship letter (if needed).

What documents are needed for a Switzerland visa for Indians?

The required documents typically include:

• A copy of your passport (front and back) with 2 blank pages & a 6-month validity.
• Round-trip flight tickets
• A scanned copy of all your previous visas on your passport
• A travel itinerary
• Proof of fund copies of your bank statement, credit card statement, mutual funds, fixed deposits, and property details.
• No-objection certificate from your employer (if you are employed)
• A sponsorship letter (If needed)
• Digital copies of your passport-size photos.

Are children eligible to apply for a Switzerland visa?

Yes, children are eligible to apply for a Switzerland visa. They require their visa, and applications must include documentation such as passport copies and photographs.

How much bank balance is required for a Switzerland tourist visa?

You can show this as cash, money in your bank statements, credit card statements, fixed deposits, mutual funds, and other liquid investments.

How long does it take to process a Switzerland tourist visa?

Processing time for a Switzerland tourist visa is 15-45 days for Indians. You can start your application as early as 6 months in advance.

What’s the process for obtaining a Switzerland visa for Indians?

Here’s a step-wise process for obtaining a Switzerland visa for Indians:

1. Visit the official website 
2. Start a new application and fill out the form
3. Book your visa appointment
4. Pay the visa fees
5. Provide your visa application, documents, biometrics, and submit your passport.
6. Receive your visa in 15- 45 days