TTU: Planning a trip to Switzerland in 2025? Take note of the new visa guidelines before you apply. VFS Global, the official partner for processing Swiss visa applications in India, has updated its checklist. Only documents mentioned on the official list will be accepted. Extra papers or explanations will no longer be considered.

Switzerland Updates Schengen Visa: What You Need to Know

The new process is simple but strict. VFS Global has made it clear that only the documents on the official checklist will be accepted at the Visa Application Centre. If you submit anything outside the list, it will not be reviewed. You cannot add documents later.

For bank statements, applicants must provide only the first three pages and the last three pages. Longer submissions will not be accepted.

Key Requirements Under the New Rules

According to VFS Global’s 2025 checklist, applicants must submit a complete set of documents as outlined below:

Switzerland Updates Schengen Visa – Required Documents

1. Valid Passport
   Must be issued within the last 10 years. Should have at least two blank pages and remain valid for 3 months after your return.
2. Recent Passport Photo
   White background, not older than 6 months. The photo must be pasted, not stapled or pinned.
3. Visa Application Form
   Complete and sign the form. For minors, parents or guardians must sign, and proof of custody may be required.
4. Employer Letter
   On official letterhead, signed and stamped by HR. It should mention your job title, travel dates, purpose of visit, and a no-objection statement.
5. Travel Insurance
   Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 (approx. INR 30,36,660). Must cover the entire trip and include medical emergencies.
6. Flight Bookings
   Confirmed round-trip tickets. Intra-Schengen travel details, if any, should also be included.
7. Accommodation Proof
   Hotel bookings, tour confirmations, or payment receipts are mandatory.
8. Financial Documents
   • If employed: Last 3 months’ salary slips, bank statements (only first and last 3 pages), and ITR-Vs for the last 2 years.
   • If self-employed: Business registration, 3 months’ bank statements, and ITR-Vs.
   • If retired: Pension statements (3 months) and proof of other income if applicable.
   • For family applications: Only the head of the family must attach financial documents, bookings, and insurance (with all names mentioned).
9. Students (16+)
   Submit a valid student ID and a letter from the school or university.
10. Minors (under 18)
    If travelling without one or both parents, notarised consent is required. Copies of both parents’ passports and IDs (PAN card or driving licence) must also be submitted.

Why These Changes Matter

These new rules ensure that applications are processed faster and more efficiently. By limiting documents to the checklist, VFS Global aims to reduce delays and maintain consistency.

Applicants are advised to prepare documents carefully. Missing or extra papers can lead to rejection.

FAQs on Switzerland Updates Schengen Visa

Q1. Can I add missing documents after submitting my application?
No. Once your documents are submitted, you cannot add anything later. Only the checklist documents will be reviewed.

Q2. Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. You must provide travel insurance with coverage of at least EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies across all Schengen countries.

Q3. Do I need to show my full bank statement?
No. Only the first three pages and last three pages of your bank statement will be accepted.

Q4. Can a family apply together?
Yes. Families can submit applications together. Only the head of the family needs to attach financial documents, bookings, and insurance (with all names included).

Q5. What if I am self-employed?
You must provide business registration documents, bank statements (first and last three pages), and ITR-Vs for the last 2 years.

Q6. Do students need a separate checklist?
Students above 16 must provide their student ID and a letter from their school or university, in addition to the standard documents.

Q7. How early should I apply for a Switzerland Schengen Visa?
It is recommended to apply at least 15 to 30 days before your planned travel date to allow processing time.