Switzerland
General visa requirements for travelling to Switzerland. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Business visa (Visa-Free Business Entry)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 90 days within 180-day period (no limit for EU/EFTA nationals)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Business activities that constitute gainful employment (even if unpaid) require a separate work permit regardless of nationality.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Citizens of visa-exempt Annex II countries and EU/EFTA/Schengen member states.
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Purpose of visit
Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, contract negotiations only. No gainful employment.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 0; Validity months: 3
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, credit cards, company guarantee; Minimum amount: Sufficient for duration of stay
Business visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Business)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Processing time
- 15-45 calendar days
- Fee
- EUR 90
- Validity
- Up to 90 days within a 180-day period
- Entry
- Multiple entry
A Schengen Business Visa does not entitle the holder to work in Switzerland. Any gainful activity requires a separate work permit. Business activities limited to meetings, negotiations, conferences, and short-term professional visits.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Citizens of Annex I countries requiring a Schengen visa.
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Purpose of visit
Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, contract negotiations, professional training (short-term). No gainful employment permitted.
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Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means. Company sponsorship accepted.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for duration of stay
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
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Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35mm x 45mm, white background
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Bank statement
Minimum balance: Sufficient funds for duration of stay; Months required: 6
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Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: Yes; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
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Travel insurance
Coverage area: All Schengen states; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000
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Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.
Accepted types: Hotel booking or accommodation arrangement confirmation; Must cover full stay: Yes
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Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter from Swiss business partner or company specifying purpose, duration, and nature of business activities, including company registration details
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Schengen Visa Application Form; Form url: https://www.swiss-visa.ch/ivis2/
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Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: At embassy/consulate or visa application center; Amount: EUR 90
How to apply
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Online application
Fill out the Schengen visa application form at swiss-visa.ch.
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Document gathering
Collect all documents including business invitation letter, employment letter, bank statements, and travel arrangements.
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Appointment booking
Schedule appointment at Swiss embassy/consulate or visa application center.
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Fee payment
Pay EUR 90 visa fee at the appointment.
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Document submission
Submit all documents in person.
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Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and digital photo if not already stored (valid 59 months).
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Processing wait
Standard 15 calendar days processing. May extend to 45 days.
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Visa collection
Collect passport with visa sticker from embassy or visa center.