Need a student visa for Switzerland? Here’s what you should know

Switzerland is known for many things. Chocolate, cheese, watches, the Swiss Alps and professional tennis players Roger Federer and Martina Hingis.

Culture and tourist attractions aside, the country is also renowned for education. Students who are keen to pursue their tertiary studies in this central European country will find it a memorable experience. Switzerland is home to some of the world’s top universities, including ETH Zurich and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), ranked 14th and 43rd respectively in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021.

A picture taken on on July 31, 2020 near Schwagalp, eastern Switzerland, shows a huge 6,400 square meters Swiss flag hanging on the rock face of mountain Saentis on the eve of Swiss national day. Source: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP

Public transport in the country is efficient – Switzerland has an extensive train and bus network, making public transit convenient for students. The country is also unique, with a whopping four national languages spoken: German, French, Italian and Romansh. So, if you have your heart set on studying in Switzerland for a course longer than three months, here’s our guide on how you can obtain a student visa for Switzerland.

Do I need a student visa?

If you’re an EU student, you won’t need a student visa. However, you will need to register with the local Residents’ Registration Office to obtain a residence permit within 14 days of arriving.

When compiling your documents, think of all the fondue you’ll be able to have once you’re able to enter and live in Switzerland legally. Source: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP)

Non-EU students (with the exception of nationals from Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand and Singapore, who will need to apply for a residence permit before arriving if you plan on staying longer than 90 days) will need to apply for a multiple entry long-stay visa (Visa D) from a Swiss embassy in your home country. You can use this website as a reference for Swiss embassy locations.

Where can I apply for my Swiss student visa?

According to the Swiss Federal Department of Justice and Police website, where you apply for your visa depends on your place of residence. You can submit your visa application either:

• Directly at a Swiss representation abroad
• By filling out the visa application online
• At an external visa service provider
• At the representation of another Schengen State

Check your options here.

When should I apply for my student visa for Switzerland?

It can take approximately six to 12 weeks for a visa to be issued. Visa fees typically cost around 60 euros (52 pounds or USD$68), but you will need to contact your embassy for clarification.

A shuttle boat sails in front of Geneva’s landmark fountain on March 9, 2020 in Geneva. Source: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP

What documents should I include in my application?

You will need to present:

• A valid passport (for at least three months beyond the planned duration of your stay)
• Four recent passport-sized photographs
• Three completed forms of application for long stay visa (visa D)
• A letter of acceptance from your chosen institution
• Proof of sufficient funds (e.g. bank statement, scholarship, etc.)
• A CV
• Proof of language skills (as courses may be taught in languages such as German, French or English)
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of payment for course fees
• A motivation letter (a written personal statement in which you declare the reasons why you wish to study in the country)
• A written commitment that you will leave the country upon completing your programme

Make copies of the original documents for the embassy as you may need them, while you may also be asked to bring or submit additional documentation, so only use this list as a reference. Take note that you may also be asked to attend an interview. Your university may be able to advise you on your visa application, but it is best to contact your nearest embassy or consulate for inquiries.

Can I work while studying?

EU/EEA students can work part-time for up to 15-hours per week during the term. Students of other nationalities can work six months after beginning their studies. However, your employer will need to obtain a work permit for you. You can also stay up to six months after graduation to look for a job.

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