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Tanzania passport → Switzerland

Switzerland visa for citizens of Tanzania

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Type C) – Tourist

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

Official application site

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

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Type C) – Tourist
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
Visa validity90 days
EntriesSingle entry
Processing time15–45 days
Government fee€90 + €20 service fee
Passport validityAt least 3 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of funds€100 per day of stay

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare documents

    Gather all required documents listed above.

  2. 2

    Fill the online visa application form

    Complete the form on the SEM website and print it.

  3. 3

    Book an appointment at VFS Global

    Appointments are mandatory for submission and biometrics.

  4. 4

    Attend appointment at VFS centre

    Submit documents, pay fee, and provide biometrics (10 fingerprints).

  5. 5

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 15 to 30 calendar days.

  6. 6

    Collect passport / receive decision

    Collect passport from VFS centre or via courier (if opted).

Documents checklist

Travel

  • Valid passport (with at least two blank pages)

    Passport issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond departure.

  • Copies of previous Schengen visas (if any)

    Optional

    If applicable.

  • Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)

    Valid for entire Schengen area and stay duration.

  • Flight itinerary (round-trip reservation)

    Not paid ticket; reservation is sufficient.

  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)

    Full stay coverage.

  • Passport copy (data page)

    One copy.

Financial

  • Proof of sufficient funds (recent bank statements last 3 months)

    At least €100 per day.

Employment

  • Employment letter (or student certificate / retirement proof)

    Stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

  • Visa application form (duly filled and signed)

    Online form, print and sign.

  • Passport-sized photo (35x45mm, white background, recent)

    2 photos required.

  • Cover letter explaining purpose and itinerary

    Brief description of travel plan.

  • Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)

    Optional

    Signed by Swiss host, registered with cantonal immigration authority.

  • Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children)

    Optional

    If applicable.

  • Visa fee payment receipt

    Pay at VFS center.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €100 per day of stay (minimum €3000 lump sum)

  • Personal bank statements (last 3 months)
  • Traveler's cheques
  • Credit card statements

Sponsorship letter and sponsor's bank statement if funds are covered by host.

Good to know

  • Submit application no earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 days before travel.
  • Biometrics (fingerprints) are valid for 5 years for Schengen visas; if previously provided, may not need to re-enroll.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient or unclear proof of funds

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance and source of funds.

Invalid or insufficient travel insurance

Ensure insurance covers minimum €30,000 medical expenses and repatriation.

Passport not valid long enough

Passport must be valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure.

Missing or incorrect supporting documents

Double-check checklist and use cover letter to explain any missing items.

FAQ

Do citizens of Tanzania need a visa for Switzerland?

Citizens of Tanzania need a visa for Switzerland and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Type C) – Tourist.

How long can citizens of Tanzania stay in Switzerland?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €20 service fee.

How long does Switzerland visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Tanzania need for Switzerland?

Visa application form (duly filled and signed); Passport-sized photo (35x45mm, white background, recent); Valid passport (with at least two blank pages); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Flight itinerary (round-trip reservation); Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter); 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.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home/themen/einreise/visum.html

Sources

Plan your trip to Switzerland

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