What Are the Documents Required for Schengen Visa

Did you know that apart from being a scenic paradise, Switzerland offers some of the most fun activities for a totally unforgettable experience? Boating along the Rhine Falls, exploring the Chillon Castle, tasting wine in the vineyards, taking a ride in the cable cars to reach Matterhorn and downhill trekking are only a few of the most adventurous things can do here. Also, it is one of the most economically and politically stable countries of the world.

All this led to Switzerland winning the award for the best country in the annual Best Countries Report. Nearly, 18.4 million tourists checked into this beautiful nation within the first half of 2018 alone. The first step for most of them was to fill up the Schengen Visa Application Form.

Documents Needed for Schegen Visa

To complete the formalities of visa application to visit Switzerland, you will need to submit some key documents, including:

1. Visa Application Form:
   This form has 37 questions, which you need to fill with accurate and complete information. Any mistakes or misrepresentation of data could lead to visa denial. To fill the form, keep information like your civil status, nationality identity number, length of stay, departure and arrival dates, travel document type and number, etc., handy. 
2. Photograph:
   2 passport-sized photographs of the dimensions 35×45 mm are required, with a matt finish and against a white background.
3. Passport:
   Original passport, valid for more than three months beyond your return date.
4. Cover Letter:
   This must state the purpose and show proof of itinerary for your Swiss visit. 
5. Travel Insurance:
   Travel medical cover of at least €30,000 for Switzerland and other Schengen area. 
6. Address Proof:
   Proof of accommodation in Switzerland, such as confirmed hotel reservations or address of friends and relatives you will be staying with. 
7. Financial Proof:
   Financial documents to show that you have sufficient funds to finance the trip. These include original bank statements, salary slips and income tax returns. You should have €92.34 per day at your disposal, during your entire stay in the Schengen area. 

Other than this, if you are employed, bring your employment contract. In case you are self employed, a copy of your business license works. Lastly, if you are retired, pension statement of the last six months can be submitted. 

Supporting Documents Required for Schengen Visa

• Invitation letter from a Swiss company for a Business Visa
• Local medical report and appointments from a Swiss hospital for medical treatment purposes.
• Invitation letter from relevant authorities if the purpose of visit is related to sports, culture, film or religious activities.
• Official invitation and identity of applicant, if the purpose of travel is official. 
• Enrollment certificates or other proofs, in case of internships. Completion certificates or courses attended are also mandatory. 
• An invitation letter from a friend or family member you might be visiting in case of a tourist visa. 

It is essential to keep in mind that all applications that are accepted are usually submitted on the following business day at the Embassy. It takes around 7-10 working days to process the visa.