If you’re planning to move to Switzerland for more than 90 days—for studies, work, or family reunification—it’s time to double-check your paperwork. The Swiss government has just tightened and clarified its visa documentation policy, and missing a single required item might get your visa application delayed or even denied!
Here’s what every Swiss national visa applicant must now prepare under the updated regulations:
New Official List of Required Documents for Swiss National Visa (Stay >90 Days)
As per the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), the following documents are now strictly mandatory for all national visa applicants:
✅ Visa Application Form: Submit three (03) completed copies of the three-page national visa form.
Choose the appropriate version depending on your French, English or other language preference.
✅ Passport-Quality Photographs: Submit two (02) recent biometric photos that meet the latest Swiss visa photo requirements (PDF). Low-quality or improperly sized photos will be rejected.
✅ Two Full Sets of Supporting Documents: Whatever your visa purpose—study, family reunification, or work—you must include two identical sets of all required supporting documents. These may include:
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- Proof of accommodation in Switzerland
- Admission letter (for students)
- Family relationship documents (for family reunification)
- Financial proof or sponsorship
- Employment contract (if applicable)
- Valid passport and previous visa copies
- Language proficiency certificates (especially for family reunification—see below)
✅ Proof of Language Proficiency for Family Reunification: Applicants joining spouses or family must now show proof of basic language knowledge.
Application Must Be Mailed
All national visa applications must be submitted by mail to the responsible Swiss embassy or consulate. Walk-ins will not be accepted and each package should include:
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- Three (03) completed visa forms
- Two (02) biometric photos
- Two (02) complete sets of all supporting documents
Pro Tip: Double-check your cantonal requirements before mailing. Swiss cantons have individual policies!
Already Got a Work Authorization?
If your employer in Switzerland has secured your work permit and you’ve received confirmation from the cantonal office, you can skip the full application and head to the Authorized Visa process.
New Policy: https://www.eda.admin.ch/content/countries/canada/en/home/visa/entry-ch/more-90-days/dokumente-national.html – (7-4-2025).
