Switzerland visa from the UK

Schengen short-stay visa

Stay

Up to 90 days in any 180-day period

Apply

Up to 6 months before travel, and at least 15 days before

Decision

Usually within 15 calendar days, sometimes up to 45

In person

Biometrics at a visa application centre in the UK

Apply through Switzerland if it is your main destination, or your first point of entry when you spend equal time in several Schengen countries.

About Switzerland

Switzerland is known for mountain scenery, lakes and scenic railways. Many visitors travel by train between Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken and Zermatt.

• CapitalBern
• LanguageGerman, French, Italian and Romansh
• CurrencySwiss franc (CHF)
• Best time to visitJune to September for hiking; December to March for skiing

Most visited places in Switzerland

• Interlaken and JungfraujochA base between two lakes, with a railway to the Top of Europe.
• LucerneThe Chapel Bridge, a lakeside old town and trips up Mount Pilatus or Rigi.
• Zermatt and the MatterhornA car-free village beneath Switzerland’s most famous peak.
• ZurichThe largest city, with an old town on the lake and river.
• GenevaLake Geneva, the Jet d’Eau fountain and the United Nations.
• BernA medieval capital of arcades and clock towers.

Documents you will usually need

• Passport with enough validity and blank pages
• Proof of your UK status, such as a BRP, BRC, eVisa share code, PR or ILR
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Travel itinerary and flight reservation
• Hotel booking or other proof of accommodation
• Travel medical insurance (at least €30,000 cover for Schengen)
• Bank statements showing regular income and enough funds
• Employment, business or student documents
• Cover letter explaining the purpose of your trip

Requirements change and differ by nationality. We confirm the current checklist for your case before you pay any fee.

How we help

1. Tell us your plans

   Send your destination, travel dates and current UK status. We confirm which visa you need and quote our service fee.

2. We book your appointment

   We look for the earliest suitable slot at the visa application centre in London, Manchester or Edinburgh.

3. We prepare your file

   Application form, cover letter, itinerary, reservations and insurance, checked against the current checklist for your destination.

4. You attend and travel

   Attend your appointment with the file we prepared. The embassy makes the decision and returns your passport.

Visa approval is never guaranteed. The decision belongs to the embassy, consulate or immigration authority. Avoid buying non-refundable flights or hotels before your visa is granted.