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Dreaming of experiencing the picturesque landscapes and stunning beauty of Switzerland? If you’re an Indian passport holder, securing a Schengen visa through the Embassy of Switzerland is your pathway to discovering the wonders of this enchanting country. Here’s a comprehensive guide to walk you through the process:

1. Finalizing the Embassy and Eligibility:

  • Ensure that Switzerland is your primary destination for travel: i. Whether Switzerland is your sole destination or ii. You plan to spend the majority of your stay in Switzerland when visiting multiple countries iii. If your stay is equal across Schengen countries, Switzerland should be your first stop.

2. Gathering the Required Documents:

Before proceeding with your visa application, ensure you have the following documents ready:

  • Valid National Passport: Your passport should meet the following criteria:

    • Issued within the last 10 years.
    • Should have a minimum of 3 months validity after your scheduled return.
    • Must have at least two blank pages.
    • Handwritten passports and those with observations on the front page (bio data) cannot be accepted.

  • 2 Passport Size Pictures: Prepare two recent passport-sized photographs adhering to these specifications:

    • White background.
    • Not older than 6 months.
    • Dimensions should be 35 – 40 mm in width.
    • The pictures should not be copied or scanned.
    • Paste the 1st picture on the application form.
    • Attach the 2nd picture by clipping it to the last page of your passport.
    • Stapled or pinned pictures will not be accepted.

  • Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the visa application form. Depending on your circumstances:

    • If you are a minor, ensure the form is signed twice by legal guardians.
    • If applicable, provide authorization from a third person.
    • If you’re traveling with your family, each application must include a copy of the covering letter.

  • Previous Passports: If you have any previous passports, bundle them together using a rubber band (no stapling).

  • Personal Covering Letter: Write an original letter detailing your travel plan. If you’re submitting applications for your family, ensure each application includes a copy of this letter.

  • Introduction Letter: Obtain an original introduction letter from your employer/company. The letter should:

    • Be on a business letterhead.
    • Include your position and the duration of your service.
    • Be signed and stamped by HR or directorate.
    • State a “no objection statement” regarding your planned trip to Switzerland/Schengen States.
    • Mention the dates and purpose of your trip.

  • Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance meets the following criteria:

    • Refer to the list of approved Indian travel insurances: List of Approved Travel Insurance Companies
    • It should provide a minimum coverage of 30,000 Euros / 50,000 USD / 50,000 CHF per person.
    • Cover all expenses related to repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, and emergency hospital treatment.
    • The insurance must cover your entire stay in the Schengen territory.
    • Applicants seeking a six months or one year multiple visa aren’t required to provide a 180 (365) days coverage. Coverage for the first journey is sufficient.

  • Flight Reservation: Include a flight reservation with the names of all travelers. If applicable, provide proof of intra-Schengen flight, train itinerary, or car rental.

  • Proof of Accommodation in Switzerland / Schengen States: Provide confirmation of hotel reservations, package tours, or advance payments.

  • Proof of Financial Status: Depending on your situation, provide the following documents:

    • If Employed:
      • Last 3 months salary slips and salary bank account statements.
      • Last 3 months personal bank account statements.
      • Personal ITR (only ITR-V) for the last 2 assessment years.
    • If Self-employed / Company Owner:
      • Business registration certificate / GST Registration with annex A & B / Partnership Deed / Proof of proprietorship or other proof of ownership.
      • Last 3 months personal and business bank account statements.
      • Company’s and personal ITR (only ITR-V) for the last 2 assessment years.
    • If Retired:
      • Personal pension bank statement for the last 3 months.
      • Proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.
    • If Student or Unemployed:
      • Parents or legal guardians must provide their personal bank statements for the last 3 months.
      • Personal ITR (only ITR-V) for the last 2 assessment years, along with a confirmation letter of financial support and copies of their passports.
  • Families:
    • If you’re applying as a family, follow these guidelines:
      • The visa applications of the family members should be submitted together.
      • Only the head of the family needs to attach bank statements, personal ITR (only ITR-V), travel insurance (mentioning all insured names), flight booking (mentioning all the names of the traveling family members), and all hotel confirmations (if all rooms are booked under the same reservation and the head of the family’s name).
    • If you plan to travel to a third country (e.g., UK, USA, Canada) after leaving the Schengen Area, obtain the visa for the next country before your Schengen visa.
    • Provide clear photocopies of valid UK, USA, or CAN visas (if any).
    • Include photocopies of the 1st page (bio data) and last page of the passport.
    • For Students above 16 years old:
      • Attach a copy of the student college ID card and an introduction letter from the School/College/University.
    • For children under 18 years old not traveling with both parents:
      • Include a written consent letter from the non-traveling parent or legal guardian, certified by a public notary.
    • For children under 18 years old traveling alone:
      • Attach written consent letters from both parents or legal guardians, certified by a public notary.
    • In all cases involving children:
      • Include copies of the passports of both parents (legal guardian) or PAN cards or driving licenses.
    • If you have been refused a visa by an Embassy or High Commission in the last 2 years:
      • Attach the refusal notice or a written explanation about the reasons for the refusal.

This completes the list of required documents for your Switzerland Schengen visa application. Make sure all documents are originals, in A4 format, with stamps and signatures where applicable.

3. Booking a Visa Appointment:

  • Schedule your appointment via VFS Global.

4. Submitting Documents to VFS Global:

  • Submit your documents at the designated VFS Global center.

5. Waiting for the Decision:

6. Tracking Application:

  • Track the status of your application through the VFS Global website.

7. Connecting with the Embassy: For any queries or information, you can reach out to the Embassy of Switzerland in India:

  • Address: E-3, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021
  • Phone: 011 4995 9570
  • Website: Switzerland in India

Suggestions:

  1. Plan your travel well in advance to ensure a seamless experience.
  2. Evaluate the optional services offered by VFS Global and choose them judiciously to manage costs:
    • Premium Lounge Access
    • Form Filling Assistance
    • Passport Collection Method (consider picking it up yourself to save costs, especially for families)
    • Courier Assurance or Insurance
    • SMS Services

Prepare for an incredible journey through the majestic Swiss Alps, historic towns, and vibrant culture by following this detailed guide to obtaining a Schengen visa via the Embassy of Switzerland in India. Bon voyage!

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