How to Get a Schengen Visa to Switzerland

Switzerland has always been a magnet for tourists from all across the world. Snow capped mountains, endless rivers and valleys, quaint cafés and eateries, famous landmarks and historic sites have put the nation on top of the bucket list for numerous foreign nationals as well as citizens of other European countries. The Alps alone attract approximately 120 million tourists every year, according to an article on World Wide Fund For Nature.

The first and foremost step to visiting Switzerland is filling up the Schengen Visa Application Form. The visa will be granted to you depending on the purpose of your visit. You can apply for this visa for short stays of up to 90 days at a stretch within a period of 6 months. If you plan on staying for longer, you will need to apply for a D visa, which is the national visa for Switzerland, rather than a Schengen Visa. This basically applies to all those who plan to work, study or live in Switzerland for long periods of time.

Documents Required for Schengen Visa to Switzerland

The following documents are required to be submitted along with the visa application form: 

1. A Valid Passport:
   An original passport, valid for six months from the date of your arrival, along with all old passports, if any.
2. Photograph:
   2 passport sized photographs in dimensions of 35×45 mm, with a matt finish and white background.
3. Visa Application Form:
   The form needs to be filled with accurate and complete information. Any misrepresentation of data or mistakes could lead to visa refusal. To fill the form, you need to a few things handy. These include your civil status, nationality identity number, length of stay, departure and arrival dates, travel document type and number, to name a few. 
4. Cover Letter:
   A cover letter, mentioning travel and applicant details, along with a leave acceptance letter from your college, school or employer. 
5. Travel Insurance Plan:
   Your travel medical insurance with cover of at least €30,000, valid in Switzerland and other Schengen countries. Make sure the insurance covers your entire stay, including urgent medical needs, hospital treatment and so on
6. Round Trip Reservation or Itinerary:
   This should include dates of entry and exit from the Schengen area. If applicable, proof of intra-Schengen flights, trains and car rentals can also be submitted as supporting documents. 
7. Proof of Accommodation:
   Address of your accommodation in Switzerland. This can be the local address of a friend or family member or details of your hotel reservation confirmation. 
8. Proof of Financial Status:
9. Documents to show that you have sufficient funds to finance your trip. These can include original bank statements, salary slips and income tax returns.

Post Application Process

You will be required to book an appointment to submit the documents and application form at the Swiss Representation in your country. Keep in mind that applications accepted are usually submitted on the next working day at the Embassy. You will be also required to pay the visa fee, which is usually €83.59.

Now, the visa will get processed within 7-8 working days. You can keep track of the status through the online account you would have created to download the visa form.