Switzerland Tourist Visa
The Switzerland Tourist Visa is a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) issued to travellers visiting Switzerland for holidays, sightseeing, or leisure. It allows a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area, not just Switzerland. As Switzerland is a Schengen member state (though not part of the EU), the visa follows the standard Schengen framework, but applications and document requirements are assessed independently by the Swiss representation responsible for the applicant’s place of residence. Popular reasons for applying include Alpine holidays, sightseeing in cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, and skiing trips. As with all Switzerland Visa categories, the final decision on approval rests solely with the Embassy or Consulate of Switzerland and the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
Eligibility Criteria
You may apply for a Switzerland Tourist Visa if:
- You intend to visit Switzerland purely for tourism, sightseeing, or leisure.
- Your stay will not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Switzerland is your primary destination, or your main entry point if travelling to multiple Schengen countries.
- You can demonstrate sufficient financial means, confirmed accommodation, and an intention to return to your home country.
- Your passport was issued within the last 10 years and remains valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.
Government Visa Fees
| Category | Fee (EUR) |
| Adults (Schengen Short-Stay Visa) | €90 |
| Children aged 6–12 | €45 |
| Children under 6 | Free |
| Family members of Swiss/EU/EFTA nationals | Free |
*INR figures are approximate, based on prevailing exchange rates, and may vary at the time of payment. The Swiss representation reserves the right to adjust fees in line with currency fluctuations.
An additional service charge may apply if the application is submitted through an external visa application centre such as VFS Global. All visa fees are non-refundable, whether the visa is approved, refused, or the application withdrawn.
Processing Time
As a general rule, the Swiss representation takes a decision within 15 days of a complete application submission, though this period may be extended in individual cases. For nationals of certain countries, additional consultation with other Schengen states may add up to 14 calendar days to the process. Applications can be submitted no earlier than six months before travel, and at least 15 calendar days before the planned entry date, though applying around six weeks in advance is recommended to allow time for any additional document requests. Personal appearance and biometric data collection are mandatory unless the applicant’s fingerprints were captured within the last 59 months for a previous Schengen visa.
Required Documents Checklist
Information may vary depending on individual circumstances and the applicant’s country of residence.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying for a Switzerland Tourist Visa requires careful preparation of your travel documents, financial proof, accommodation bookings, travel itinerary, and travel insurance in accordance with Swiss Schengen visa requirements. Shivansh Consultants provides personalized guidance and end-to-end assistance with preparing your visa application, reviewing all supporting documents, and ensuring your paperwork complies with the latest Swiss Embassy requirements. Our experienced visa consultants carefully verify every detail to help minimize delays and improve your chances of visa approval. With a transparent process and dedicated support, we assist you throughout your Switzerland Tourist Visa journey.