General Questions
Q1: Do Indian citizens need a visa for Switzerland? Yes, Indian passport holders require a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland. Indians are not visa-exempt for Schengen countries.
Q2: How long does it take to get a Switzerland visa from India? Standard processing time is 7-10 calendar days from VFS submission. During peak season, it can take up to 30 days. Plan accordingly and apply at least 2-3 months before travel.
Q3: What is the validity of a Switzerland tourist visa? Tourist visas are typically issued for the duration of your trip, up to 90 days. Multiple-entry visas can be valid for 1-5 years, allowing multiple visits of up to 90 days per 180-day period.
Q4: Can I work in Switzerland on a tourist visa? No, tourist visas (Type C) do not permit any form of employment. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and future visa bans.
Q5: How much bank balance is required for Switzerland visa? While there's no official minimum, it's recommended to show ₹1.5-2 lakhs for solo travelers. The requirement is approximately CHF 100 per day (₹9,200 per day) of stay.
Application Process
Q6: How early can I apply for a Switzerland visa? You can apply up to 6 months before your intended travel date. However, it's recommended to apply 2-3 months in advance to allow for processing time and any unforeseen delays.
Q7: Can I apply for a Switzerland visa online? You must complete the online application form at swiss-visa.ch, but you still need to submit documents and biometrics in person at a VFS Global center.
Q8: Do I need to book flights before applying for a visa? You need flight reservations (not purchased tickets) showing your intended travel dates. Many airlines and travel agents provide reservation confirmations without full payment. Don't buy non-refundable tickets before visa approval.
Q9: Is an interview required for Switzerland visa? Personal interviews are not mandatory for most applicants. However, the Swiss Embassy reserves the right to call you for an interview if they need clarification on your application.
Q10: Can I track my Switzerland visa application? Yes, you can track your application on the VFS Global website using your reference number. You'll also receive email and SMS updates (if opted) at various stages.
Documents and Requirements
Q11: What documents are mandatory for Switzerland tourist visa? Mandatory documents include: valid passport, completed application form, photographs, travel insurance (€30,000 coverage), flight reservations, hotel bookings, bank statements (3 months), ITR (2 years), employment proof, and cover letter.
Q12: Do I need to submit original documents? Yes, you must submit original documents for verification. They will be returned with your passport. Also provide photocopies of all documents.
Q13: Can I use my spouse's bank account for financial proof? Yes, if you're a homemaker or dependent, you can use your spouse's financial documents along with a sponsorship letter, marriage certificate, and proof of relationship.
Q14: Is travel insurance mandatory for Switzerland visa? Yes, travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage is mandatory. It must cover all Schengen countries and include medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Q15: What if I don't have ITR for last 2 years? ITR is mandatory for most applicants. If you haven't filed, you should file immediately. For students and homemakers, parent's or spouse's ITR can be used with proper sponsorship documentation.
Fees and Payment
Q16: How much does a Switzerland visa cost for Indians in 2025? The visa fee is ₹9,400 (€90) for adults and ₹4,700 (€45) for children aged 6-12. Additionally, VFS charges a service fee of ₹2,690. Total cost is approximately ₹12,090 per adult.
Q17: Are visa fees refundable if rejected? No, visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome. This applies to both the visa fee and VFS service charges.
Q18: What payment methods are accepted at VFS? VFS Global accepts cash, credit/debit cards, and online payments. It's advisable to check with your specific VFS center for available payment options.
Visa Validity and Travel
Q19: Can I enter other Schengen countries with a Switzerland visa? Yes, a Switzerland Schengen visa allows you to travel to all 27 Schengen countries. However, Switzerland should be your main destination or first point of entry.
Q20: How long can I stay in Switzerland on a tourist visa? You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is cumulative across all Schengen countries, not just Switzerland.
Q21: Can I extend my Switzerland visa while in Switzerland? Visa extensions are rarely granted and only in exceptional circumstances (medical emergency, force majeure). It's better to apply for the correct duration initially.
Q22: What is the difference between single-entry and multiple-entry visa? A single-entry visa allows one entry into the Schengen Area. Once you exit, it becomes invalid. A multiple-entry visa allows multiple visits during its validity period.
Rejection and Reapplication
Q23: What should I do if my visa is rejected? Read the rejection letter carefully to understand the reasons. You can either appeal within 30 days or reapply after addressing the issues. Wait 3-6 months before reapplying.
Q24: Can I reapply immediately after rejection? While there's no mandatory waiting period, it's advisable to wait 3-6 months and address all rejection reasons before reapplying. Immediate reapplication without changes will likely result in another rejection.
Q25: Does visa rejection affect future applications? A rejection doesn't automatically disqualify you from future applications. However, you must disclose previous rejections and address the reasons that led to rejection.
Special Cases
Q26: Can I apply for a Switzerland visa if I'm unemployed? Yes, but you'll need a strong sponsor (family member) with good financial standing. Provide sponsorship letter, sponsor's financial documents, and proof of relationship.
Q27: I'm a student. Can I apply for a Switzerland visa? Yes, students can apply using their parents' financial documents. You'll need a student ID, NOC from institution, parent's sponsorship letter, and parent's financial proof.
Q28: Can senior citizens apply for Switzerland visa? Yes, senior citizens can apply. Provide pension statements, retirement documents, and proof of sufficient funds. Medical insurance is especially important for elderly travelers.
Q29: Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through Switzerland? If you're staying in the international transit area and not entering Switzerland, you may not need a visa. However, if you're changing airports or exiting the transit area, you need a Schengen visa.
Q30: Can I apply for a Switzerland visa from a city different from my residence? You should apply at the VFS center nearest to your place of residence. However, if needed, you can apply from another city with proper justification and proof of temporary stay.
VFS and Appointments
Q31: How do I book a VFS appointment for Switzerland visa? Visit visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/che, complete the online application form, then book an appointment by selecting your preferred VFS center, date, and time.
Q32: Can I reschedule my VFS appointment? Yes, you can reschedule through the VFS portal using your booking reference. The first reschedule is usually free, but subsequent changes may incur charges.
Q33: What happens if I miss my VFS appointment? If you miss your appointment, you'll need to book a new one. The service charges are non-refundable, so you may need to pay again.
Q34: How long does the VFS appointment take? The appointment typically takes 30-45 minutes, including document verification, biometric collection, and fee payment. Arrive 15 minutes early.
After Visa Approval
Q35: How do I collect my passport after visa approval? You can either collect it in person from the VFS center or opt for courier delivery (additional charge). Bring your receipt and ID for collection.
Q36: What should I check when I receive my visa? Verify all personal details, visa validity dates, number of entries, and visa type. Report any errors immediately to VFS.
Q37: Can I travel before my visa start date? No, you cannot enter the Schengen Area before the "valid from" date on your visa. Plan your travel accordingly.
Q38: What documents should I carry while traveling to Switzerland? Carry your passport with visa, travel insurance policy, hotel bookings, return flight tickets, sufficient funds, and copies of all visa application documents.
Miscellaneous
Q39: Is Switzerland expensive for Indian tourists? Yes, Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Budget approximately ₹15,000-25,000 per day per person for accommodation, food, and local travel.
Q40: What is the best time to visit Switzerland from India? Summer (June-September) is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Winter (December-March) is perfect for skiing. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and moderate weather.
Q41: Do I need to know German/French/Italian to visit Switzerland? No, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning basic phrases in the local language is appreciated.
Q42: Can I drive in Switzerland with an Indian license? Yes, Indian driving licenses are valid in Switzerland for up to 12 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not mandatory.
Q43: What is the currency in Switzerland? Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small purchases.
Q44: Is tipping customary in Switzerland? Service charges are usually included in bills. Additional tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service (5-10%).
Q45: What are the emergency numbers in Switzerland?
Police: 117
Ambulance: 144
Fire: 118
General Emergency: 112
