Switzerland Visa Requirements

Visa Requirements

Even though Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, entry requirements are similar to those of EU countries. A valid passport is required for all foreign nationals entering Switzerland and it is advisable to ensure that your passport has at least six months validity when visiting any foreign country. Along with 24 other European countries, Switzerland is a signatory to the Schengen Convention. That means a visa to any other signatory state of the Schengen Agreement is valid in Switzerland too (in most cases). No visa is required for citizens of EU member states, and citizens of some selected nations with whom Switzerland has special treaties can enter Switzerland for up to 90 days in a 180 day period without a visa. This includes Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and US citizens, among many others. Be aware that the 90 day limit runs concurrently across the whole of the Schengen zone and the countdown begins when entering any of the signatory countries. It does not reset when travelling into another country covered by the Schengen agreement.

Visas cannot be issued in Switzerland so you must hold one before entry if required to do so. You may be required to show immigration officials that you have return or onward tickets and adequate means of support and accommodation upon entering Switzerland.

More info on the Schengen Agreement and travel documents for EU citizens can be found at http://europa.eu/travel/doc/index_en.htm

Airports in Switzerland do not charge a departure tax.

More information can be found by clicking here.

We strongly advise that all Australian travellers check the latest travel advice on the Australian Government Smart Traveller site.