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Switzerland visas

Switzerland visa on arrival

A Schengen visa can be issued at the border in exceptional cases. This is not a routine visitor option.

Ways to get a Switzerland visa on arrival

  1. Emergency Schengen visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who meet normal visa criteria and can prove that unforeseeable, urgent reasons prevented an advance application.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Request the visa at the border.
    2. Present evidence of the urgent circumstances and eligibility under normal visa rules.

Who needs it

This route is for travellers who can prove that unforeseeable, urgent reasons prevented them from applying in advance and who meet the normal visa criteria.

How to apply

  1. Present your request at the border checkpoint.
  2. Prove why unforeseeable, urgent circumstances prevented an advance application and show that you meet the normal visa criteria.

What to bring

  • Evidence explaining why an advance application was not possible.
  • Evidence that the normal Schengen visa criteria are met.

Good to know

  • The circumstances must be exceptional.
  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interest or international obligations.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already have the required travel documents.
  • The death or sudden serious illness of a close relative or another close person is an example of an exceptional reason.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Switzerland?

This route is for travellers who can prove that unforeseeable, urgent reasons prevented them from applying in advance and who meet the normal visa criteria.

How long can I stay on a Switzerland visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days.

How long is a Switzerland visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Switzerland visa on arrival?

Evidence explaining why an advance application was not possible.; Evidence that the normal Schengen visa criteria are met..

How do I apply for a Switzerland visa on arrival?

1. 1. Present your request at the border checkpoint. 2. 2. Prove why unforeseeable, urgent circumstances prevented an advance application and show that you meet the normal visa criteria.

What rules do I have to follow on a Switzerland visa on arrival?

The circumstances must be exceptional. If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interest or international obligations.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Switzerland?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Switzerland visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Switzerland be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Switzerland visa on arrival rules?

On Switzerland's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Switzerland?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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