Visa Processes
Visa Processes
At International Swiss School, we welcome students from around the world and are committed to providing comprehensive support throughout every stage of the admissions and relocation process. We understand that applying for a visa can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming experience, especially for international students who may be unfamiliar with Swiss immigration procedures. That is why our dedicated Admissions Student Services teams are here to assist you – from the moment you receive your acceptance letter to the day you arrive on campus.
We offer personalized guidance to help you navigate the student visa application process smoothly and efficiently. Our team can assist you in understanding the documentation requirements, preparing the necessary paperwork, and liaising with local authorities or embassies when needed. We believe that timely, clear, and reliable support is key to ensuring a stress-free transition to your studies in Switzerland.
While International Swiss School provides full support, it is important to note that obtaining a visa remains the responsibility of each student, and requirements may vary depending on your country of origin. Therefore, we encourage all prospective students to familiarize themselves with the visa processes early in their application journey. Below, you will find detailed information about the visa application steps, required documents, and important guidelines for international students wishing to study at the International Swiss School.
Student Visa Application Process for Pakistani Students
At the International Swiss School, we are proud to welcome students from around the world, including Pakistan. To study in Switzerland for more than three months, students from Pakistan must obtain a National (D) Visa for study purposes. Below is the step-by-step process for applying for the Swiss student visa, following the official requirements of the Embassy of Switzerland in Pakistan.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
All documents must be in English, French, German, or Italian and in A4 format. You need:
- Three completed and signed D visa application forms;
- Two recent passport-sized color photos (white background, high quality, not digital prints);
- Valid passport (with at least two blank pages and three months’ validity after your intended exit);
- Copies of the data page of your passport and all Schengen/US/UK visas and stamps.
- All previous passports, or a police report (translated) if any were lost;
- Pakistani CNIC or POC;
- Admission letter from the International Swiss School;
- Proof of initial tuition payment;
- Detailed study plan and motivation letter, outlining purpose, goals, and commitment to return to Pakistan after studies;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Certified copies of all academic certificates and diplomas;
- Proof of financial means for the full duration of your studies (including sponsor’s declaration if applicable, with sponsor’s passport copy);
- IELTS or equivalent English proficiency certificate;
- Letter from current employer or academic institution in Pakistan;
- NADRA Family Registration Certificate (FRC) listing the applicant as “SELF”;
An explanation letter if you were refused a visa in the past five years.
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must appear in person to submit their application at the Swiss Embassy in Islamabad.
- Contact the Visa Section at islamabad.visa@eda.admin.ch to schedule your appointment;
- Ensure that you carefully review all requirements before attending, as incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Submit Application
At your appointment:
- Submit three sets of application forms and two copies of all supporting documents;
Originals shown without copies will not be returned; - Ensure all documents are presented properly, as non-compliance will lead to rejection.
Step 5: Processing Time
The Embassy will forward your application to the relevant Swiss authorities.
- Processing can take 8 to 12 weeks.
- It is recommended to apply at least 2–4 months before your intended travel date.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once authorization is received from Switzerland:
- The Embassy will contact you;
- You may then finalize the visa issuance by visiting the Embassy again.
Student Visa Application Process for Students from India and Bhutan
At International Swiss School, we are committed to supporting our students from the moment they receive their acceptance letter until they arrive safely on campus. For students from India and Bhutan planning to study in Switzerland for more than 90 days, it is necessary to apply for a National D Visa for study purposes. Below is a step-by-step guide to help ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Students must carefully prepare the following documents in the exact order specified by the embassy, ensuring all are in A4 format:
- Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, with at least two blank pages and valid for three months beyond intended departure from Switzerland);
- Four passport-sized photos (white background, recent, specific ICAO format);
- Three completed and signed visa application forms;
- Personal cover letter, signed by the student, explaining reasons for studying in
- Switzerland, future career plans, and confirming intent to return after studies;
- Curriculum Vitae (original and one copy);
- Official acceptance letter from the International Swiss School and proof of tuition fee payment, including relevant bank statements if applicable;
- All academic certificates and degrees (original and two colored copies; no “true copy” or notary stamps accepted);
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL), or German/French/Italian certificates if available;
- Sponsor’s financial documents, including: Confirmation letter of financial support, Sponsor’s passport copies, Clear explanation of the origin of the funds, Sponsor’s solvency proof (ITR-V for the last two years, and bank statements for the last three months, signed and stamped);
- Photocopies of any valid UK, USA, or Canada visas (if applicable);
- Visa fee: Generally free of charge for student visas (exceptions apply for post-doctorate cases).
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must submit their visa applications in person at the Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi, located at Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri.
Appointments must be booked online via the official VFS Global portal for Switzerland.
The visa application form is free of charge and can be downloaded from the official Swiss government website for visa applications.Step 4: Submit the Application in Person
Students are required to submit:
- Three sets of application forms and documents (one original and two copies);
- Ensure documents are not stapled and presented in the required order;
- Failure to present the complete and correct documentation will result in rejection of the application.
Step 5: Processing Time and Decision
The embassy will forward the application to the Swiss immigration authority of the respective canton.
Average processing time is eight to twelve weeks, depending on the canton and individual case.
The Embassy will contact the applicant once a decision is made.
The visa will only be issued after receiving official authorization from the Swiss authorities.
Important Notes
- The Embassy or Swiss authorities may request additional documents at any time.
- Documents sent by email or fax will not be accepted.
- Students holding a Certificate of Identity (CoI) or an Identity Certificate (IC) must provide additional documents, such as a valid Residence Certificate and a Return Visa.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once authorization is received from Switzerland:
- The Embassy will contact you;
- You may then finalize the visa issuance by visiting the Embassy again.
Swiss Student Visa Application Process for Students from Bangladesh
At International Swiss School, we are pleased to welcome students from Bangladesh and assist them throughout their journey toward studying in Switzerland. For programs lasting longer than 90 days, Bangladeshi students are required to apply for a National D Visa for study purposes. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to the student visa process, based on the official requirements of the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Students must carefully prepare all documents in the order specified by the embassy, ensuring they are complete and properly organized:
- Three completed and signed visa application forms, each with a recent passport-sized photo (less than 6 months old) glued to the form;
- One additional passport-sized photo (unglued);
- Current MRP passport and all previous passports, properly cross-referenced with endorsement stamps by the Passport Office;
- Photocopies of the current passport, attached to each application form.
Supporting Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae and motivation letter explaining study goals, intentions in Switzerland, and plans after returning to Bangladesh;
- Proof of academic qualifications, including certificates and diplomas;
- Official acceptance letter from the International Swiss School;
- Written declaration by the applicant confirming their intention to return to Bangladesh after completing studies;
- Accommodation confirmation for the entire duration of stay in Switzerland.
Proof of Financial Means:
- Sponsor’s affidavit or cover letter on business letterhead, confirming financial support;
- Evidence of financial resources (bank statements for the last 12 months, income tax returns, fixed deposit receipts);
- Loan sanction letter from the bank (if applicable);
- Proof of payment of tuition fees for at least one academic year.
Language Proficiency:
- Confirmation from the Swiss institution that the student has passed the required language proficiency test;
- A recent IELTS result, obtained from the British Council in Dhaka or equivalent.
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
All visa applications must be submitted in person at the Embassy of Switzerland in Dhaka, located at Bay’s Edgewater, 8th Floor, Plot 12, North Avenue, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212.
- An appointment is mandatory and must be scheduled by email at dhaka.visa@eda.admin.ch before submission of documents;
- Visa application forms are free of charge and can be obtained directly at the embassy or downloaded from the Swiss official website.
Step 4: Submission of Documents
- All documents must be submitted in the original – photocopies alone are not accepted;
- Important documents, such as diplomas and certificates, will be returned after verification;
- Documents must be clipped together (not stapled) in the prescribed order;
- Three identical sets must be submitted: one original set and two photocopy sets;
- All academic certificates must be legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in Bangladesh.
Step 5: Processing Time and Decision
The Embassy forwards the complete application to the relevant Swiss authorities for assessment.
- Processing time may take several months, and applicants should apply well in advance of their intended start date;
- The applicant will be informed as soon as a decision is made;
- The Embassy cannot provide status updates by phone or email during the process.
Important Notes:
- Only complete applications will be accepted;
- The Embassy reserves the right to request additional documents or clarifications at any time;
- Submission of a complete file does not guarantee that the visa will be granted.
Student Visa Application Process for Nepali Students
At the International Swiss School, we proudly welcome students from across the globe, including Nepal. If you plan to study in Switzerland for more than three months, you must apply for a National (D) Visa for study purposes. Below is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Swiss student visa, based on the official guidelines from the Embassy of Switzerland in Nepal.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
All documents must be in English (or accompanied by an official translation) and printed on A4 paper. You need:
- Three completed and signed D visa application forms available on the official Swiss government website for visa applications ;
- Four recent passport-sized color photos (one on each form + one extra);
- Valid passport (with at least two blank pages and sufficient validity);
- Copy of the personal data page of your passport;
- Copy of Nepali citizenship certificate with English translation;
- (For Indian nationals in Nepal): Registration certificate from the Indian Embassy in Nepal;
- Admission letter from the International Swiss School;
- Proof of enrollment fee or school fee payment (receipt and bank transaction slip);
- A signed motivation letter, explaining your reasons for study, school choice, and future plans;
- Your CV (bio-data) listing prior education and employment;
- A signed commitment letter stating you will leave Switzerland at the end of your studies or residence period;
- Bank statements from the last 12 months;
- A sponsor letter with:
- Sponsor’s passport or citizenship copy;
- Relationship certificate;
- Proof of sponsor’s financial status (including tax clearance certificates from the past 2 years or income tax receipts);
- Academic certificates and diplomas;
- If under 18:
- Birth certificate;
- Parents’ consent letter;
- Copies of parents’ passports.
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must appear in person to submit their application at the Embassy of Switzerland in Kathmandu.
Contact the Visa Section at kathmandu.consular@eda.admin.ch to schedule your appointment.
Be sure to review all requirements in advance – incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Submit Application
At your appointment:
- Submit three sets of application forms and two complete copies of all supporting documents;
- All originals must be presented, but documents shown without copies will not be returned;
- Files missing any required copies will not be accepted.
Step 5: Processing Time
Your application will be sent to the relevant cantonal immigration authority in Switzerland.
Visa processing can take at least 8 weeks, so we recommend applying 2–4 months before your intended travel date.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once your application is approved by the Swiss authorities:
- The Embassy will contact you;
- You will need to visit the Embassy again to finalize the visa issuance.
Student Visa Application Process for Kenyan Students
At the International Swiss School, we are proud to welcome students from around the world, including Kenya. If you plan to study in Switzerland for more than three months, you must apply for a National (D) Visa for study purposes. Below is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Swiss student visa, following the official requirements of the Embassy of Switzerland in Kenya.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
All documents must be in English (or officially translated) and printed on A4 paper. You need:
-
- Three completed and signed D visa application forms;
- Three recent passport-sized color photos (white or grey background);
- Valid passport (with at least two blank pages and valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from Switzerland);
- Two photocopies of your passport (including personal data and visa pages);
- Two photocopies of any valid or expired visas (Schengen, UK, US, etc.);
- For non-Kenyan nationals: a copy of your valid Kenyan residence permit;
- Two copies of the Letter of Acceptance from the International Swiss School (also to be sent to the Embassy via email as an attachment to: nairobi.visa@eda.admin.ch);
- Two copies of the confirmation of tuition fee payment and bank transaction receipt (also sent by email to the Embassy);
- A signed motivation letter describing your academic goals, reasons for choosing the school, and your commitment to return to Kenya after your studies;
- Your curriculum vitae (CV) detailing education and work history;
- Certified copies of your academic certificates and diplomas;
- Proof of financial means for your entire study duration, such as:
- Recent bank statements;
- Sponsor’s declaration (if applicable), with sponsor’s passport copy and financial evidence;
- An English language certificate (e.g., IELTS or equivalent, if required by the school);
- A letter from your current employer or academic institution in Kenya (if applicable);
- An explanation letter if you were refused a visa in the past five years.
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must appear in person to submit their application at the Swiss Embassy in Nairobi.
Contact the Visa Section at nairobi.visa@eda.admin.ch to schedule your appointment.
Make sure you review all requirements carefully before your appointment – incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Submit Application
At your appointment:
- Submit three signed application forms and two complete sets of all required supporting documents;
- Bring original documents for verification – any original presented without a copy will not be returned;
- Ensure documents are properly ordered and complete to avoid rejection.
Step 5: Processing Time
The Embassy will forward your application to the responsible Swiss cantonal authorities.
Processing may take 8 to 12 weeks, so apply at least 2 to 4 months before your intended travel date.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once authorization is received from Switzerland:
- The Embassy will contact you;
- You must return in person to finalize the visa issuance and collect your passport.
-
Student Visa Application Process for Nigerian Students
At the International Swiss School, we are proud to welcome students from around the world, including Nigeria. If you plan to study in Switzerland for more than three months, you must apply for a National (D) Visa for study purposes. Below is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Swiss student visa, following the official requirements of the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- Three completed and signed national visa application forms (for minors, forms must be signed by both parents, with copies of their passports, a letter of consent, a birth certificate, and custody agreements if applicable);
- Passport or official travel document issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least three months after scheduled return, with at least two blank pages (original and two photocopies of the data page);
- Copies of valid Schengen, UK, US, and Canada visas (if applicable); in case of refusal, copies of refusal letters;
- Resident permit for foreign nationals residing in Nigeria, valid for at least three months after planned stay in Switzerland (original and two photocopies);
- Four identical recent passport photos (color, white background, no head covering, no dark glasses)
- Letter of admission from the International Swiss School (original and two photocopies)
- Diplomas and certificates, with translations if applicable (original and two photocopies)
- Motivation letter stating the objectives of the study, signed and dated by the applicant (original and one photocopy)
- Written Commitment to leave Switzerland after studies and Written Statement of Student’s Intention after studies, each signed and dated by the applicant (original and one photocopy)
- Proof of payment of university or school fees or proof of exemption (original and two photocopies)
- Proof of financial means (original bank statements for the last six months, stamped and signed by the bank; bank certificates; if sponsored, a sponsorship letter, a copy of the sponsor’s passport, and sponsor’s bank statements for the last six months, stamped and signed) (original and two photocopies)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume (original and two photocopies)
- Proof of language skills such as TOEFL, IELTS, or certificates in German, French, or Italian if available
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must appear in person to submit their application at the Swiss Embassy in Abuja.
Contact the Visa Section at abuja.visa@eda.admin.ch to schedule your appointment.
Make sure you review all requirements carefully before your appointment — incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Submit Application
At your appointment:
- Submit three signed application forms and two complete sets of all required supporting documents;
- Bring original documents for verification — any original presented without a copy will not be returned;
- Ensure documents are properly ordered and complete to avoid rejection.
Step 5: Processing Time
The Embassy will forward your application to the responsible Swiss cantonal authorities.
Processing may take 8 to 12 weeks, so apply at least 2 to 4 months before your intended travel date.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once authorization is received from Switzerland:
- The Embassy will contact you;
- You must return in person to finalize the visa issuance and collect your passport.
Student Visa Application Process for Students from Ghana, Benin, and Togo
At the International Swiss School, we are proud to welcome students from around the world, including Ghana, Benin and Togo. If you plan to study in Switzerland for more than three months, you must apply for a National (D) Visa for study purposes. Below is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Swiss student visa, following the official requirements of the Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- Three completed, dated, and signed long-stay visa application forms;
- Three recent passport-sized color photographs following ICAO guidelines (white background, undamaged, not stapled);
- Original passport valid for at least six months after the date of application, with at least two blank pages, issued within the past 10 years;
- All previous passports, either valid or cancelled;
- For foreign nationals residing in Ghana: valid residence permit copy, valid for three months beyond intended departure from the Schengen area;
- Two photocopies of the passport and all pages with valid visas;
- Original and one photocopy of the letter of acceptance from the International Swiss School;
- Two photocopies of school certificates and diplomas;
- Two detailed plans of study from the selected school or university;
- Two signed CVs (curriculum vitae);
- Two signed motivation letters explaining professional plans and how the studies will benefit the future career;
- Written declaration to leave Switzerland at the end of studies;
- Proof of language skills (German, French, Italian, or English);
- Proof of sufficient financial means, can be one of the following:
- Declaration of sponsorship and proof of sponsor’s income/wealth (sponsor must be residing in Switzerland with valid residence if foreigner);
- Bank confirmation from a Swiss-recognized bank regarding sufficient property value;
- Three months of bank statements from a recognized bank showing sufficient funds for one full year of studies, including tuition, accommodation, food, transport, and living costs;
- Proof of a guaranteed scholarship.
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must appear in person to submit their application at the Swiss Embassy in Accra.
Make sure you review all requirements carefully before your appointment — incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Submit Application
At your appointment:
- Submit three signed application forms and two complete sets of all required supporting documents;
- Bring original documents for verification — any original presented without a copy will not be returned;
- Ensure documents are properly ordered and complete to avoid rejection.
Step 5: Processing Time
The Embassy will forward your application to the responsible Swiss cantonal authorities.
Processing may take 8 to 12 weeks, so apply at least 2 to 4 months before your intended travel date.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once authorization is received from Switzerland:
- The Embassy will contact you;
- You must return in person to finalize the visa issuance and collect your passport.
Student Visa Application Process for Students from Ethiopia
At the International Swiss School, we are proud to welcome students from around the world, including Ethiopia. If you plan to study in Switzerland for more than three months, you must apply for a National (D) Visa for study purposes. Below is the step-by-step process for obtaining a Swiss student visa, following the official requirements of the Embassy of Switzerland in Ethiopia.
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- 3 national (type D) visa application forms duly completed in German, French, Italian, English, or Spanish, signed by the applicant.
- Passport or official travel document: issued within the last 10 years; with at least three months’ validity after the scheduled return and with at least 2 blank pages
- Original and 2 photocopies of passport (photo, personal data, and signature page only)
- Three recent passport-sized color photographs following ICAO guidelines (white background, undamaged, not stapled);
- Letter of admission from the International Swiss School in Switzerland. Original and 1 copy;
- Diplomas and certificates, along with translations if applicable, Original and 2 copies;
- A motivation letter stating the objectives of the study, signed and dated by the applicant. Original and 1 photocopy;
- Proof of payment of the Swiss university/school fees or proof of exemption from the Swiss university/school fees. Original and 1 copy;
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, bank certificates, etc.) Original and 1 photocopy. If sponsored: a signed and dated sponsorship letter will have to be submitted along with a copy of the sponsor’s passport (pages with photo, personal data, and signature only) and his/her bank statements. Original and 1 photocopy;
- Curriculum Vitae, Original and 1 copy;
- Proof of language skills, such as TOEFL or IELTS certificates. German, French or Italian language certificates, if available. Original and 2 copies.
Step 2: Submit your documents to the International Swiss School for review
To support international students in their Swiss student visa application process, the International Swiss School requires all admitted students to submit their prepared visa documentation for internal review before submitting it to the Swiss Embassy. This review allows the university to check the completeness, accuracy, and quality of the documents and offer guidance on corrections if necessary, helping students strengthen their applications and reduce the risk of rejection. The university also provides students with all necessary institutional documents, including official acceptance letters, confirmation of tuition payment, and any additional supporting materials required by Swiss immigration authorities. This proactive support ensures that students present a well-prepared application package to increase their chances of a successful visa outcome.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Students must appear in person to submit their application at the Swiss Embassy in Addis Ababa. You can submit your visa application by appointment only. Please book your appointment by calling or writing to the Embassy.
Make sure you review all requirements carefully before your appointment — incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Step 4: Submit Application
At your appointment:
- Submit three signed application forms and two complete sets of all required supporting documents;
- Bring original documents for verification — any original presented without a copy will not be returned;
- Ensure documents are properly ordered and complete to avoid rejection.
The Embassy of Switzerland reserves the right to ask for additional documents and/or for a personal interview.
Step 5: Processing Time
The Embassy will forward your application to the responsible Swiss cantonal authorities.
Processing may take 8 to 12 weeks, so apply at least 2 to 4 months before your intended travel date.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
Once authorization is received from Switzerland, you will have to submit your original passport or travel document together with the authorization to this Embassy during the opening hours without prior appointment in order to obtain your visa. The passport can be picked up on the following working day.
To find the specific visa requirements for your country, please visit the official website of the Swiss Embassy or Consulate responsible for your region, or visit the link below:
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/fdfa/entry-switzerland-residence/visa-requirements-application-form.html