Territorial competence for visa applications
Visa applications should be addressed to the Swiss representation competent for your place of residence.
Entry into Switzerland (and Schengen area) and residence for non-Swiss and non-EU/EFTA nationals
Schengen visa, type C (for a stay of 90 days or less)
The Schengen Visa, type C is for persons wishing to enter Switzerland for a short stay of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days, for example in the context of tourism, a visit, short-term language studies, etc.
State Secretariat for Migration – ”Short stay: entry requirements for Switzerland”
State Secretariat for Migration – Visa application forms
You can make use of the short-stay calculator to calculate the amount of time available for short stays in the Schengen Area for no more than 90 days in any 180-day period.
State Secretariat for Migration – Calculation of short-term stays/short-stay calculator
National visa (visa D for stay in excess of 90 days)
The National visa, also known as visa D, is for persons wishing to enter Switzerland for a stay of more than 90 days. It is subject to the authorisation of the cantonal migration authority competent for the intended place of residence.
