To visit Bern, Switzerland, as a tourist, you generally need to apply for a Schengen tourist visa if you are coming from a country outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), or any other country that does not have a visa free arrangement with Switzerland. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, which allows for free movement of people between member countries once you enter any one of them.
Here are the steps to apply for a tourist visa to Switzerland (Schengen visa):
1. Check if You Need a Visa
Citizens of the EU/EEA countries, as well as certain countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, do not require a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days). If you are from a country that does require a visa, you must apply before your trip.
2. Determine the Type of Visa You Need
A Schengen short stay visa (Type C) allows you to stay in Switzerland and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in a 180 days period.
3. Prepare Your Documents
The general documents required for a tourist visa application are:
Visa application form: Complete the Schengen visa application form (available online or from the Swiss consulate/visa center).
Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Switzerland, with at least two blank pages.
Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements.
Travel itinerary: Provide details of your trip, including accommodation reservations, flight bookings, and a day by day itinerary.
Proof of travel insurance: Travel medical insurance that covers you for the entire Schengen Area with a minimum coverage of Euro 30,000 for medical emergencies.
Proof of financial means: Bank statements or other documents to show you have enough funds to cover your stay (e.g., Euro 100 per day of your visit).
Visa fee: The standard Schengen visa fee is around Euro 80 (it may vary slightly depending on the country and age group).
4. Book an Appointment
You will need to book an appointment at the nearest Swiss consulate or visa application center (e.g., VFS Global or TLScontact, depending on your country). Some countries also have Swiss embassies where you can submit your visa application.
5. Submit Your Application
Attend the visa appointment and submit your documents. In some cases, biometric data (fingerprints) will be taken as part of the application process.
6. Wait for Processing
Visa processing typically takes 15 calendar days from the date of your appointment, but it can take longer depending on the consulate or the time of year. It is best to apply at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance of your planned departure date.
7. Receive Your Visa
If approved, you will receive your visa, which allows you to travel to Switzerland and other Schengen countries for the duration of your stay (up to 90 days in a 180 day period).
8. Travel to Switzerland
When you arrive in Switzerland, you may be asked to show proof of accommodation, return flight, travel insurance, and sufficient funds at the border. Ensure you carry all your supporting documents during travel.
