---
title: Switzerland visa for citizens of Eritrea
description: "Citizens of Eritrea need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €20 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/switzerland/eritrea
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Switzerland visa for citizens of Eritrea

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.*

Official application site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/switzerland/eritrea/

## 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

- **Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure** (Identity): Must have at least two blank pages
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Print and sign the form
- **Two recent passport-sized photographs** (Identity): Must meet Schengen photo requirements
- **Travel health insurance covering Schengen area** (Travel): Minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR
- **Round-trip flight reservation** (Travel): Not yet purchased; only itinerary
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel booking or invitation letter
- **Bank statements for last 3-6 months** (Financial): Show sufficient funds for the trip
- **Employment letter or proof of self-employment** (Employment): Include salary details and leave approval
- **Income tax returns (if applicable)** (Financial, optional): To support source of funds
- **Cover letter explaining purpose of visit** (Supporting): Briefly describe itinerary and intention to return
- **Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)** (Supporting, optional): Shows travel history
- **Civil status documents (marriage certificate, birth certificate if applicable)** (Identity, optional): For family visits or accompanying minors
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Financial): Pay at time of submission
- **Proof of residence in Eritrea (if not citizen)** (Identity): Valid residence permit or ID

## 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

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.vfsglobal.com/switzerland/eritrea/)

## More

- [Switzerland visa for every passport](/visa/switzerland)
- [Every destination for Eritrea passport holders](/visa/passport/eritrea)