Eritrea passport → Switzerland

Switzerland visa for citizens of Eritrea

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Eritrea 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 · Tourist (up to 90 days)
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 + €20 service fee
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the stay

How to apply

1
Complete the visa application form
Fill out the online Schengen visa application form and print it
2
Gather required documents
Collect all listed documents as per the checklist
3
Book an appointment at VFS Global
Schedule a biometric appointment and document submission slot
4
Attend the appointment in person
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay fee
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15-30 calendar days
6
Collect passport
Collect your passport with visa decision at the VFS center or opt for courier

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure
Must have at least two blank pages
Completed visa application form
Print and sign the form
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Must meet Schengen photo requirements
Civil status documents (marriage certificate, birth certificate if applicable)
Optional
For family visits or accompanying minors
Proof of residence in Eritrea (if not citizen)
Valid residence permit or ID

Travel

Travel health insurance covering Schengen area
Minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR
Round-trip flight reservation
Not yet purchased; only itinerary
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation letter

Financial

Bank statements for last 3-6 months
Show sufficient funds for the trip
Income tax returns (if applicable)
Optional
To support source of funds
Visa fee payment receipt
Pay at time of submission

Employment

Employment letter or proof of self-employment
Include salary details and leave approval

Supporting

Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Briefly describe itinerary and intention to return
Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Shows travel history

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Approximately 100 EUR per day of stay

Bank statements
Sponsorship letter
Traveler's checks

Bank statements must be recent (last 3 months) and show consistent income

Good to know

Incomplete applications or missing documents will lead to refusal
Ensure passport has at least two blank pages and is valid for 3 months beyond return
Visa fee is non-refundable even if application is rejected

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient financial means

Provide bank statements and proof of sufficient funds for entire stay

Lack of strong ties to home country

Submit proof of employment, property, or family in Eritrea

Invalid or insufficient travel insurance

Purchase insurance that covers at least 30,000 EUR and is valid in all Schengen states

False or misleading information

Ensure all documents are genuine and consistent

FAQ

Do citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Switzerland?

Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Eritrea stay in Switzerland?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €20 service fee.

How long does Switzerland visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Eritrea need for Switzerland?

Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure; Completed visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs; Travel health insurance covering Schengen area; Round-trip flight reservation; Proof of accommodation; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Switzerland?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/switzerland/eritrea/

Sources

vfsglobal.com

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