Switzerland Visa Guide for Indian Citizens Complete Application Guide 2025
Yes, Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to visit Switzerland. Your nationality—not your current residence—determines visa requirements. Apply at the VFS Global Switzerland Visa Application Centres in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, or Kolkata.
Swiss Alps
Iconic Mountains
Zurich, Switzerland
Bahnhofstrasse
Geneva, Switzerland
Lake Geneva
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Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply
UK Residency Requirements
- ✓ You must hold a valid Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or residence visa; visitor visas not accepted.
- ✓ Your UK residency permit should be valid throughout the entire visa processing period, ideally with some months buffer beyond travel dates.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- ✓ No strict age limit; applicants must be capable of managing travel independently.
- ✓ Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended departure from Switzerland.
- ✓ Visa purpose must align with permitted categories: tourism, business, family visits, or study.
Who Cannot Apply
- ✗ Individuals on short-term UK visitor visas.
- ✗ Applicants without valid UK residency status or with permits about to expire.
Required Documents Checklist
Essential Documents
Travel Arrangements
Status Documentation
Additional Requirements
💡 Pro Tip: Double-check passport validity, UK residence status, and ensure all documents are correctly signed and translated before booking your appointment. Common mistakes like outdated bank statements, missing photos, or unsigned forms are the #1 cause of rejections.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps to apply from London as an Indian citizen
Online Application
Start your Switzerland Schengen visa application at france-visas.gouv.fr. Complete the online form carefully to avoid delays.
Appointment Booking
Book your appointment through TLScontact's London center. Expect a £25–35 service fee. Book 2–3 weeks in advance during peak season.
Document Preparation
Organize passport, photos, travel insurance, bank statements, employment letters. Translate non-English documents and make copies of everything.
Appointment Day
Go to the TLScontact center near Central London, arrive 15 minutes early. Submit documents, biometric data, and attend a brief interview (30–45 min).
Tracking & Collection
Track your application online using the reference number. Passports are returned within 10–15 working days via courier or collection from the center.
Travel
Check visa validity dates carefully. Travel within the validity period and keep supporting documents handy for immigration checks.
Switzerland Visa Processing Time and Fees
Adults
€80 (≈ £70)
Children 6-12
€40 (≈ £35)
Children under 6
Free
Additional Service Fees
TLScontact charges around £26.50 for biometric collection, document handling, and appointment booking. Optional priority slots cost extra (£15–20).
Processing Timelines
Standard processing: 15–30 calendar days. Peak seasons may take up to 45 days. Apply 6–8 weeks before travel to account for delays. Track your application via TLScontact.
Timeline Planning
Apply 6–8 weeks before your trip through TLScontact’s portal. This buffer accounts for seasonal delays and extra document requests, ensuring stress-free planning.
Financial Requirements: Minimum Funds for Indian Citizens
Daily Financial Requirements
Indian citizens applying for a Switzerland visa must show enough funds to cover their stay—typically €40–120 per day depending on accommodation. For a 10-day trip, this amounts to €400–€1,200. It’s wise to show extra as a buffer.
Hotel Accommodation
€120/day
Higher daily requirement
Budget/Hostel Stay
€40–65/day
Lower daily requirement
💡 Bank Statement Requirements
Provide statements for the last 3–6 months showing consistent balances covering your trip plus extra. Avoid sudden unexplained deposits.
Additional Financial Proof
Include salary slips, tax returns, and employment letters. Other income sources like rental or investments can strengthen your application.
Sponsorship Options
If a sponsor supports you, include an official sponsorship letter, proof of relationship, and sponsor's financial documents. All documents must be up-to-date and clear.
Tips to Increase Switzerland Visa Approval Chances
Common Rejection Reasons
Incomplete documentation, poor financial evidence, vague itineraries, or insufficient proof of ties to India are frequent causes of rejection.
Preparation Strategies
Start 4–6 weeks before travel. Organize documents chronologically and use a checklist. Ensure bank statements show steady income and book refundable accommodations.
Success Tips
Demonstrate strong ties to India via employment, property, or family. Make financial proofs coherent with income. Include a detailed day-by-day itinerary. Avoid rushing the process to prevent errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens living in London need a visa for Switzerland?
Yes. Indian citizens must obtain a Schengen visa even if resident in the UK. Always use official Swiss visa application channels.
What documents are required?
Passport, UK residence proof, completed application form, passport photo, travel insurance, flight & hotel bookings, financial proof, and employment/student documents. Follow VFS Global checklist carefully.
Where to submit the application in London?
Submit through VFS Global Switzerland Visa Centre. Biometrics are mandatory. Book appointments early during peak seasons.
Processing time and cost?
Standard processing is 15–30 days, may extend to 45 days in peak season. Fee: €80 adults, €40 children (6–12), plus ~£26.50 TLScontact service fee.
Proof of funds requirement?
Provide bank statements for last 3–6 months covering trip expenses. Sponsorship allowed with valid documents.
Expert Review & Official Sources
Expert Verification
Reviewed by Visa Expert Kritika, specializing in European visas and UK-based applications (09 Sep 2025).
Source Verification
Information cross-referenced with official embassy sources and immigration policies as of 19 Sep 2025.
Official Source
Check official source: https://www.eda.admin.ch/london