Published on 19 January 2026

Application for Schengen visa and procedure

For specific information about applying for a Schengen visa with main destination Switzerland please see Where to apply for a Schengen visa.

• Visa application form

  SEM – Visa Application Form

• Information for hosts in Switzerland

  • SEM – Number 8 (For hosts in Switzerland) of FAQ – Frequently asked questions
  • SEM – Factsheet on letter of invitation
  • SEM – Information on Declaration of Sponsorship

• Photograph quality

  International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) – MRTD Photo Guidelines

• Processing time of a visa application

  As a general rule, a decision is taken by the Consulate within 15 days. This period may, in individual cases, be extended.

  Some Schengen States require that they be consulted on visa applications submitted to other Schengen States by citizens of certain countries. The consultation process may take up to 14 calendar days. Such consultation is currently required for nationals of the countries listed here:

  List of countries

  It is therefore recommended to submit the visa application early, at the earliest 6 months before the planned journey.

• Refusal of a visa and appeal

  The reasons for refusal are notified to the applicant using a standard form.

  You have the right to appeal within 30 days of receipt of the refusal. For information on appeal procedures, please refer to the webpage of the State Secretariat for Migration.

  SEM

• Biometric data acquisition

  Biometric data (fingerprints) are generally collected every 59 months from the age of 12 years from the first recording.

• Family members of CH, EU or EFTA nationals

  If you are a family member of a Swiss, European Union (EU) or European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizen, you are entitled to submit your application directly at the responsible Embassy or Consulate of Switzerland. An appointment is mandatory and must be booked in advance.

  Citizens of the EU and the EFTA and their family members

• Complaints procedure

  If you wish to complain about the behavior of the consular staff and, if applicable, about the external service provider or about the process, please contact the competent representation in writing.