corona update

Various regulations apply for entering Switzerland. A basic distinction is made between citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries and those of other countries. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) is the responsible authority in Switzerland.

SEM

Since Switzerland’s adherence to the Schengen and Dublin agreements came into force (12 December 2008), Swiss representations abroad are able to issue certain categories of visa, depending on the length of stay and purpose of the journey in Switzerland. Please select one of the following options.

In light of the current Covid-19 crisis please be informed of the following:

COVID-19:

Swiss borders with all Schengen states to reopen

Switzerland has reopened all its borders with EU/EFTA states from 15 June. From that date, all travel restrictions will be lifted and freedom of movement will be reintroduced within all states in the Schengen area and for citizens of other European states who have rights of free movement.

Restrictions will also be lifted for citizens with rights of free movement from non-Schengen states, such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia and Cyprus.

COVID-19: Current visa restrictions

The current visa suspension (Visa C and Visa D) will remain in force. At the moment it is not possible to apply for such a visa, regardless of the date of your planned journey.

The Federal Council will decide on a further easing of entry restrictions for third countries at a later date and in consultation with the other Schengen states.

Exceptions:

Exceptions will be made, for the time being primarily for Students, Family Reunifications and Diplomats taking office.

Applications can be submitted and processed at your local Swiss representation. Please contact us by email at riyadh.visa@eda.admin.ch

General Information

The Embassy of Switzerland in Saudi-Arabia have outsourced the application process for short-term visas (so called Schengen visas) to the external service provider VFS Global 

Our external service provider will support you during the application process. VFS Global is responsible for receiving your visa application, checking the completeness and acceptability of your application form and application documents, collecting biometric data, receiving the visa fee and other fees (service fee and optional fees) and returning your passport. The decision whether or not to issue a visa is taken by the Swiss Embassy, VFS Global is not involved in the decision. 

The earliest you can apply for your visa: 6 months before your intended trip. 

The latest you can apply for your visa: at most 15 days before your intended trip. 

Where to apply for Schengen visas: VFS Global 

We however recommend you to start the application procedure as early as possible, but not earlier than 6 months prior to your entry date to the Schengen states, in order to avoid any inconvenience with your travel dates. 

We wish you a pleasant stay in Switzerland!