One of the main requirements for visitors wanting to travel to Switzerland is to get a valid Swiss visa. A return Switzerland visa is a special type of visa that is only available for returning travelers who have already made at least one visit to the country. This visa can be applied for at the Swiss Embassy and the requirements for obtaining one are as follows.
Requirements for a Return Switzerland Visa
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- The applicant must have a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.
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- The applicant must provide evidence that he/she has been in Switzerland before.
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- The applicant must demonstrate strong ties to his/her home country (e.g job, sources of income).
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- The applicant must pay the visa fee.
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- The applicant must show a valid travel medical insurance coverage.
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- The applicant must be able to demonstrate that the trip is for both short term and long term purposes.
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- The applicant must provide proof of financial means to support his/her stay in Switzerland.
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- The applicant must fulfil certain conditions related to being a student.
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- The applicant must provide a valid photo identification.
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- The applicant must show proof of lodging during the period of stay in Switzerland.
Documentation Required
The following documents must be provided to the Swiss Embassy when applying for a return Switzerland visa:
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- A valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.
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- A completed visa application form.
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- Proof of a prior visit to Switzerland (such as a tourist visa).
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- Bank statements showing sufficient funds.
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- Medical health insurance validation.
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- Proof of lodging in Switzerland.
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- A valid passport size photograph.
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- Proof of employment/student enrollment in the home country.
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- Letter of invitation (if applicable).
Processing Time & Cost
The processing time for obtaining a return Switzerland visa can take up to two weeks and the cost for a visa is approximately 60 US Dollars. The cost may vary depending on the length of stay requested by the applicant and the type of visa being applied for (single trip, multiple entry, etc.).
Types of Return Switzerland Visas
There are several types of return Switzerland visas available depending on the length of stay required. The most common are the Single Entry return visa, Multiple Entry return visa, and the Student return visa.
Single Entry Return Visa
A single entry return Switzerland visa permits the applicant to enter Switzerland only once. It does not allow the applicant to leave the country and then re-enter.
Multiple Entry Return Visa
A multiple entry return Switzerland visa permits one to make multiple entries into the country voluntarily. Depending on the length of stay requested, this type of visa can be extended for up to one year.
Student Return Visa
The student return Switzerland visa is only available for those students who have completed at least one year of study in Switzerland and who wish to return either to continue their studies or to take up employment.
FAQs about Return Switzerland Visa
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- How long is a return Switzerland visa valid for?The validity period of a return Switzerland visa depends on the type of visa being applied for. Single entry return visas are typically valid for 90 days, multiple entry return visas can be extended for up to one year, and student return visas are typically valid for two years.
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- Do I need a return Switzerland visa if I have already been to Switzerland before?Yes, you must obtain a return Switzerland visa if you would like to re-enter Switzerland for any purpose, such as business or leisure travel. A single entry or multiple entry return visa can be applied for at the Swiss Embassy of your home country.
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- What are the requirements for a successful return Switzerland visa application?The requirements for obtaining a return Switzerland visa include a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity, proof of a prior visit to Switzerland, documents demonstrating ties to your home country, travel medical insurance coverage, and financial means to support your stay in Switzerland.
Conclusion
Returning to Switzerland is a great way to explore its many wonderful cities, attractions, and culture. However, in order to do so, you must apply for a valid return Switzerland visa first. The requirements and documentation needed for a successful visa application vary depending on the type of visa that is being applied for, but it is important to note that the processing time and cost associated with obtaining a visa could vary depending on the length of stay requested. After receiving the visa, it is important to ensure that you abide by all relevant visa regulations whilst in Switzerland.
