Visa Process Overview
Below is a general overview of your expected student visa or residence permit application process. Step-by-step instructions on how to apply for your student visa will be posted below as soon as they are updated for your specific departure cycle. As instructions are posted for your program and cycle, you will receive an email notification.
The visa application process, including requirements and fees, are subject to change.
What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a three-month Study Visa for Switzerland and must apply for a Residence Permit after arrival.
How do I apply for the visa?You must apply for your visa through the Consulate Office of the Swiss Embassy which has jurisdiction over your state. You will either be required to apply in-person with your passport and additional required documents or you may be able to send them to the Consulate to be processed. After arrival, AFS-Switzerland will assist you in obtaining your residence permit.
What documents will I need to collect in order to apply for the visa?- United States Passport valid for at least six months after your return
- Visa Application Form
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Parental Consent Form (Who Needs to Sign?)
- Proof of Financial Resources
- School Transcript
- Resume
- Essay on Future Plans
- Statement confirming your plans to leave Swtizerland at the end of your program
You will also receive additional documents from AFS-USA and AFS-Switzerland necessary for applying for your visa.
Requirements may vary between Consulates. Additional documents may be required. Do not begin collecting these documents until notified by AFS
When do I apply for the visa?If you must apply in-person for your visa, you should be present at the Consulate six weeks before your departure with your passport and required documents. If you are permitted to apply via mail, please send all of the required documents one month before departure.
How much will the visa cost?The visa cost for students is currently USD $89 but may vary between Consulates. The visa extension fee is USD $180 and needs to be paid to AFS-USA before departure.
Are there any other expected costs?There are many additional costs involved in obtaining, notarizing, and mailing the required documents. There may also be additional costs associated with traveling to the Consulate for an in-person appointment.
Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program tuition?No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or visa.
Can I travel before the start of my program?AFS recommends that you not plan any travel outside of the United States during the two months before your program departs. Obtaining a visa takes time and your passport is usually required for this. Should you choose to travel within the two months before the start of your program and not allow enough time to procure your visa, you will run the risk of jeopardizing your travel arrangements.
Full Visa InstructionsIf you are participating in a Year program to Switzerland, you will be notified when the full visa instructions are available. Do not begin the visa process until you are notified by AFS.
If you are participating in a Trimester program to Switzerland, please see the Visa Information for Trimester Program.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time. For help with any terms, please view the Visa Glossary.
