Afghanistan passport → Switzerland

Switzerland visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short-Stay)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Short-Stay)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Check the Swiss embassy website for the correct visa category (e.g., tourist, business) and collect all required documents.
2
Complete the visa application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form online or manually, then print and sign it.
3
Book an appointment at the Swiss embassy or consulate
Schedule an appointment via the embassy's online booking system or by phone.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 fee (or equivalent in local currency) at the time of appointment, usually by bank transfer or at the embassy.
5
Attend the appointment and submit documents
Bring all original documents and copies to the embassy; submit your passport and application.
6
Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph)
Biometrics are collected during the appointment; they are valid for 5 years for Schengen visas.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 to 30 calendar days; you may be contacted for additional information.
8
Collect your passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the embassy or have it couriered back (if available).

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed visa application form
Available on the Swiss embassy website
Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.)
Optional
If applicable

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary
Not a paid ticket, but a confirmed booking
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement)
For entire stay in Switzerland

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Must show sufficient funds for the trip

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary
Detailed travel plan and reason for visit
Previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Copies of previous visas and entry/exit stamps

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient funds for the entire stay (e.g., €100 per day)

Bank statements
Sponsorship letter
Traveler's checks

Bank statements must be original, stamped, and dated within the last month.

Good to know

Visa applications from Afghanistan may face additional scrutiny and longer processing times.
Ensure all documents are translated into English, French, or German by a certified translator.
Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is approved.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form before submission.

Insufficient financial means

Provide clear bank statements and a sponsorship letter if needed.

Lack of travel insurance or invalid coverage

Purchase insurance that meets Schengen requirements (€30,000 minimum).

Unclear purpose of visit or itinerary

Write a detailed cover letter and provide confirmed bookings.

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Switzerland?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Short-Stay).

How long can citizens of Afghanistan stay in Switzerland?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Switzerland visa cost for citizens of Afghanistan?

Government fee: €90.

How long does Switzerland visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for Switzerland?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement); and 5 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Switzerland?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/afghanistan/en/home/visa/entry-switzerland.html

Sources

eda.admin.ch

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