Burundi passport → Switzerland

Switzerland visa for citizens of Burundi

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short Stay / Tourist)

Citizens of Burundi 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 / Tourist)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 6 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 (approx. 100 CHF per day)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and check requirements
Visit the official Swiss embassy website or VFS Global site for Burundi residents.
2
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per the checklist above.
3
Complete the visa application form online
Fill the Schengen visa form on the official Swiss visa portal.
4
Book an appointment at the visa centre / embassy
Schedule a biometrics appointment through VFS Global or the embassy.
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay the 80 EUR (approx. 90 USD) fee at the time of appointment, non-refundable.
6
Attend appointment and submit biometrics
Provide fingerprints, photo, and submit the application in person.
7
Wait for processing
Processing takes 15 to 45 calendar days; avoid booking travel until decision.
8
Collect passport with visa (or receive by courier)
Either pick up at centre or opt for delivery (extra fee).
9
Check visa details upon receipt
Verify validity dates and number of entries.
10
Travel and follow Schengen rules
Carry all supporting documents, insurance, and proof of accommodation.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport with at least two blank pages
Passport validity at least 3 months beyond planned departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed visa application form
Form available on Switzerland's official visa portal or VFS website
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Schengen photo standards, white background
Travel itinerary / round-trip flight reservation
Confirmed booking with dates and flight numbers
Travel health insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage)
Valid throughout Schengen area
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
For entire stay duration

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Show sufficient funds for the trip
Tax returns / payslips (optional for self-employed)
Optional
Suggested if employed

Employment

Employment / leave letter
From employer stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Proof of civil status (marriage / birth certificate if applicable)
Optional
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Detail itinerary and intentions
Previous visas (if any)
Optional
Copies of old Schengen visas helpful
Proof of legal residency in Burundi (if not Burundian citizen)
Optional
For third-country nationals
Additional documents for minors (birth certificate, parental consent)
Optional
Both parents' ID copy if minor applying alone

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approx. 100 CHF per day of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Payslips
Tax returns

Sufficient funds must be shown to cover stay, or a sponsor letter with sponsor's documents.

Good to know

Processing can be delayed if documents are incomplete or biometrics are unavailable on same day.
Visa does not guarantee entry; border officers may still refuse entry.
Overstay may result in bans and fines.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and ensure signature.

Insufficient or unclear proof of funds

Provide recent, consistent bank statements and sponsor letter if applicable.

Lack of travel insurance or invalid policy

Purchase Schengen-compliant insurance covering 30,000 EUR.

Weak ties to home country (risk of overstay)

Show stable employment, family, and property in Burundi.

FAQ

Do citizens of Burundi need a visa for Switzerland?

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

How long can citizens of Burundi stay in Switzerland?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90.

How long does Switzerland visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Burundi need for Switzerland?

Valid passport with at least two blank pages; Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs; Travel itinerary / round-trip flight reservation; Travel health insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage); Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Switzerland?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to Switzerland

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