Swiss Confederation

U.S. citizens do not need a Switzerland visa for tourist or business travel. A valid U.S. Passport is required.

Switzerland becomes a Schengen State: On December 1st, 2008 Switzerland will officially become a member of the Schengen States which include the following members: the Czech Republic, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland and Spain.
Note that visas issued by the Swiss government before November 1, 2008, will be valid only for entry into Switzerland.

Switzerland has joined the Schengen visa scheme on December 12, 2008. Therefore all foreign nationals residing in the USA who require a Schengen visa will from that date onwards also require a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland. The Swiss visa desks can only accept applications from persons whose main destination is Switzerland.

US GREEN CARD HOLDERS ARE NO LONGER EXEMPT FROM THE VISA OBLIGATION FOR SHORT STAYS IN SWITZERLAND.

Citizens of Bermuda require a visa, except if they are holders of a passport containing one of the following entries under the heading "nationality": British Citizen (B.C.) or British National (Overseas) (B.N.O.)

Only persons who have a legal residence status in the United States can apply for visas at Swiss representations in the United States (e.g. F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.). Tourists and visitors on B1/B2 visas must apply in their country of residence.

As a general rule, the applicant must appear in person to submit a visa request. Please consult the information below to find out which visa desk is responsible for your place of residence and whether you may apply by mail. Embassy of Switzerland Washington, D.C.