🇨🇭 New 2025 Visa Rules: Required Documents for Swiss National Visa

Planning to relocate to Switzerland for more than 90 days—whether for work, studies, or family reunification? Then it’s crucial to make sure your visa documents are 100% in order.

As of April 7, 2025, the Swiss government has updated its visa documentation policy for national (long-stay) visas. Even a single missing item could lead to delays or outright denial of your application.

Here’s a breakdown of the newly enforced requirements.

Updated Document Checklist for Swiss National Visa in 2025

According to the Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), every long-stay visa applicant must now submit the following documents without exception:

✅ 1. Visa Application Form – 3 Copies Required

You must submit three (3) completed copies of the Swiss national visa application form. Be sure to use the version that matches your preferred language—English, French, or another.

Download the form directly from the Swiss government’s official website.

✅ 2. Biometric Passport Photos – 2 Copies

Provide two (2) recent passport-sized biometric photos that strictly follow the Swiss photo specifications. Any photo that’s blurry, poorly lit, or incorrectly sized will be rejected.

Refer to the official guidelines to ensure your photos meet the Swiss visa photo requirements.

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✅ 3. Two Complete Sets of Supporting Documents

Applicants must include two identical sets of all supporting documents relevant to their visa purpose. These may include:

• Proof of housing or accommodation in Switzerland
• Official university admission letter (for students)
• Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other proof of family relationship (for family reunification)
• Bank statements, sponsor letters, or other proof of financial support
• A signed employment contract or offer letter (for work visas)
• Valid passport and any prior Schengen visa copies
• Language certificates, especially for those applying for family reunification

Important: Always double-check the individual requirements of the Swiss canton you plan to live in. Each canton may request additional or specific documents.

✅ 4. Language Proof Now Mandatory for Family Visas

If you’re applying for a family reunification visa, you must now submit evidence of basic language knowledge in the language spoken in your future place of residence. This is a new requirement under the 2025 policy update.

How to Submit Your Application: By Post Only

All applications for a Swiss national visa must be sent by mail to the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country. In-person submissions are no longer accepted.

Your mailed application package should include:

• Three (3) completed visa application forms
• Two (2) biometric passport photos
• Two (2) full sets of supporting documents

Tip: Confirm if your destination canton requires any additional paperwork before submitting.

Already Have a Work Authorization?

If your Swiss employer has already obtained a work permit on your behalf and you’ve received official approval from the canton, you may skip the full document process. Instead, apply via the simplified Authorized Visa route.

Check full details and updates on the official Swiss embassy page:
Swiss National Visa Documentation Policy (as of April 7, 2025)

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