India is not on Switzerland’s visa‑exempt list, so any Indian passport holder must secure a Schengen short‑stay visa (Type C) to visit Switzerland for tourism. This visa also allows travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180‑day window.
2. Latest Visa Fees & Cost Breakdown (2025)
- Schengen visa fee:
- Adults (12+ years): €90 (~₹7,000)
- Children (6–11): €45 (~₹4,400)
- Children under 6: Free
- VFS Service Charges (per applicant):
- Service fee: ~INR 2,690
- Courier: INR 930
- SMS tracking: INR 450
- Premium lounge (optional): INR 4,600
- Travel insurance (mandatory): Expect €30,000 minimum coverage—usually INR 2,000–4,000 depending on provider.
Estimated total cost (India):
- Adults: INR 10,500–13,000
- Children (6–11): INR 6,700–7,800
3. Who Qualifies: Eligibility Overview
- Must be an Indian passport holder with a passport issued in the last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond your return date, and with at least two blank pages.
- Must not have violated Schengen visa rules previously.
- Must show intent to return (job, family, assets in India).
- If previously had biometric data captured within 59 months, new submission may be waived.
4. Step‑by‑Step Application Process
a. Plan in advance
Apply anytime up to 6 months before departure, but no later than 15 days ahead.
b. Fill out the application form
Download the form free from Switzerland’s official visa site, fill in carefully, sign and date.
c. Gather required documents
Make sure you have:
- Valid passport (10 years old max, 3 months validity beyond stay, 2 blank pages)
- 2–3 passport‑sized photos (white background, recent)
- Completed form + supplements (travel purpose, itinerary)
- Flight reservation/round‑trip tickets
- Hotel booking or host invitation
- Travel insurance (≥ €30,000)
- Proof of funds: bank statements, salary slips, fixed deposits — generally INR 1.5–2 lakh balance recommended
- Employment documents: NOC from employer or tax/business proofs
- Previous passports/visas
- Additional documents: Cover letter, civil status proof, sponsorship letters (if applicable)
Organise these in the exact order as per the VFS checklist.
d. Book appointment
Visit VFS Global India or Swiss‑visa portal to set up a timeslot at one of the VFS centres (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.)—it’s free to book.
e. Biometric submission & interview
Attend VFS on your appointment day, submit application, fingerprints, photo. Children under 12 are exempt from biometrics. An interview may be requested.
f. Pay the fees
Pay the visa fee (via cash/card) and VFS service charges at the centre—document all receipts.
g. Track the status
Use your reference number and VFS portal to monitor status. Updates may also come via SMS or email.
h. Passport collection/delivery
Once approved (typically within 7–15 days), collect your passport from VFS or opt for courier. Courier costs ~INR 690–930.
5. Processing Time & Visa Duration
- Standard timeframe: 7–15 calendar days
- Some cases may take up to 45 days (e.g., extra review)
- Multiple‑entry visas up to 5 years can be granted, though typically a 6-month to 1-year validity is issued
- Allowed stay: Maximum of 90 days within a 180‑day period
6. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect photos: Must meet ICAO standards; avoid scanned images
- Insufficient funds: Carry at least INR 1.5–2 lakh based on your trip length
- Incomplete documentation/order: Strictly follow the VFS checklist
- Late application: Avoid peak-season delays by applying well in advance
- Past visa violations: These can impact approval; if previously overstayed, consult an expert
7. Checking Your Application Status
- VFS portal: Enter reference ID + DOB to track
- SMS/email alerts: Optional if opted
- Courier tracking: Provided if chosen
8. Help with Rejections & Appeals
- If denied, reasons will be stated. You can appeal within 30 days via the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration
- Options: Re‑apply with stronger documentation or file a formal appeal
9. Final Checklist Before You Apply
- Passport (valid & blank pages)
- Passport photos (ICAO-compliant)
- Filled & signed application form
- Travel/ticket & accommodation proof
- Travel insurance certificate
- Financial documents
- Employment/business proof
- Old passports/visas
- VFS appointment confirmation
- Fee receipts