Business Visa Switzerland: All You Need to Know About Your Swiss Business Visa

Are you planning a business trip to Switzerland? The first question to ask is whether you need a visa. If you are among the nationals of over 100 visa-required third countries, you must apply for a Swiss business visa. A Schengen visa for Switzerland allows you to enter Switzerland, a country full of business opportunities. With a stable economy, a robust financial sector, and an excellent quality of life, Switzerland is a top destination for business travellers and investors worldwide. This detailed guide provides all the information you need about applying for a business visa for Switzerland: requirements, documents, visa process, and conditions.

Table of Contents:

• What is a business visa for Switzerland?
• Who needs a business visa for Switzerland?
• Who is a Swiss business visa suitable for?
• Where to apply for a Swiss business visa?
• What documents are required for a business visa application?
• What does a business invitation to Switzerland look like?
• 8 steps to obtaining your Swiss business visa
• How much does a business visa for Switzerland cost?
• How long is a Swiss business visa valid?
• Business visa with extended validity and multiple entries
• Which travel insurance to choose for your business visa?

What is a business visa for Switzerland?

A Swiss business visa (also known as a business visa) is a Schengen visa for short stays in Switzerland, granted for business or professional purposes. Since Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, this is a standardised EU visa. The business visa falls under the Schengen Visa Type C and allows nationals of visa-required third countries to enter Switzerland and stay for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. The stay is not limited to Switzerland only, as a Swiss business visa is also valid in Austria, Germany, and all other Schengen states (unless otherwise specified on the visa).

Example: If a Swiss company plans to meet with a Chinese company in Switzerland, the Chinese business representatives will need to apply for a business visa, as China is a visa-required country. The same applies to foreign companies planning to attend a trade fair in Zurich; their employees would need a business visa to travel for the event.

Important: A Swiss business visa is not a work permit or a long-term residence visa. If you intend to work in Switzerland, you will need a work permit from the canton. A Swiss work visa is only issued after obtaining cantonal approval.

Who needs a business visa for Switzerland?

The requirement for a business visa for Switzerland depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay. For short business trips, such as meetings, conferences, or other activities, citizens of visa-exempt countries can typically stay in Switzerland for up to 90 days without a visa. Nationals of countries without visa exemptions must apply for a business visa.

• Visa-required third countries: Over 100 countries require nationals to apply for a business visa to Switzerland for even short business trips. However, third-country nationals with a valid Schengen residence permit or a valid D visa are exempt from this requirement.
• Visa-exempt third countries: Nationals from approximately 60 countries do not need a visa for short stays of up to 90 days for business activities, provided they do not undertake employment. From 2025, these nationals may need to apply for the electronic ETIAS travel authorisation.
• EU/EFTA citizens: Citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, as well as microstates like Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City, do not require a visa for short stays in Switzerland.

Who is a Swiss business visa suitable for?

The Swiss business visa is intended for:

• Business travellers: Individuals travelling temporarily to Switzerland for business meetings, negotiations, or training sessions. It enables limited stays and offers opportunities to connect with Swiss business partners, finalise contracts, and make business arrangements.
• Conference attendees: Individuals participating in conferences, seminars, or other professional events in Switzerland. It allows attendance at international conferences and networking with experts.
• Investors: The business visa allows foreign investors to explore investment opportunities in Switzerland temporarily.

Where to apply for a Swiss business visa?

If you have a business meeting, conference, or trade fair in Switzerland, apply for your business visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country. The location for application depends on where the meeting is held or where you will stay predominantly.

What documents are required for a business visa application?

The required documents may vary depending on your nationality, visa type, and specific purpose. Generally, you will need:

1. A completed visa application form
2. A valid passport with at least 3 months’ validity beyond your planned departure
3. Biometric passport photos
4. A business invitation from a Swiss partner or employer
5. Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements or payslips)
6. Travel insurance covering the entire Schengen Area
7. Flight and accommodation confirmation

It is advisable to consult the Swiss consular website in your country for the latest requirements.

What does a business invitation to Switzerland look like?

For a business trip, any visa-required business partner needs an invitation from the company they are visiting. To be valid, the business invitation must include the following details written in one of Switzerland's official languages (German, French, or Italian):

• Name, complete address, and contact details of the inviting company
• Name and position of the signatory of the invitation
• Name, surname, gender, date of birth, and nationality of the invitee
• Purpose of stay
• Financial coverage (if applicable, a formal declaration of sponsorship)
• Duration of stay and number of entries

The invitation must be signed by an authorised representative of the company.

8 Steps to Obtain Your Swiss Business Visa

1. Schedule an appointment with the relevant visa office: Depending on your location, contact the Swiss embassy, consulate, or authorised service provider to book an appointment.
2. Fill out the visa application form: Complete the official visa application form, either online or in print.
3. Gather all required documents: Collect the necessary documents and supporting evidence as per your visa type and nationality.
4. Translate foreign-language documents: Ensure all required documents are translated into German, French, or Italian by certified translators.
5. Secure appropriate travel insurance: The insurance must cover the Schengen Area with a minimum of €30,000 and include emergency medical and repatriation costs.
6. Attend your appointment: Submit your passport, fingerprints, documents, and proof of insurance at your scheduled appointment.
7. Pay the visa fee: Be prepared to pay an additional service fee if an authorised external partner is involved.
8. Collect your visa: After processing (usually up to 15 days), retrieve your passport with the visa sticker. In peak seasons, processing may take longer.

How Much Does a Swiss Business Visa Cost?

The standard cost of a Swiss business visa is €80 for adults. For children aged 6 to 12, the fee is €40. Note that fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.

How Long is a Swiss Business Visa Valid?

A business visa typically allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a 6-month period. Key points to consider include:

• Validity period: The timeframe during which you can enter the Schengen Area. This is often one year or more.
• Length of stay: The maximum number of days you can stay in Switzerland, generally up to 90 days within 180 days.
• Single or multiple entries: Depending on your application, the visa may allow for one, two, or multiple entries.

How to Apply for a Business Visa with Extended Validity and Multiple Entries?

A Schengen visa can be issued for one, two, or multiple entries and can be valid for up to 5 years. The issuing authority decides on the validity and entry permissions based on the applicant’s travel reasons and submitted documents. Longer validity is typically granted to individuals with:

• Documented frequent or regular travel for business or personal reasons
• A history of proper use of previously issued visas

Which Travel Insurance is Required for a Swiss Business Visa?

Your travel insurance for a Swiss business visa must meet the following requirements:

• Valid throughout the Schengen Area
• Coverage for the entire stay
• Minimum coverage of €30,000
• Inclusion of emergency medical and hospitalisation costs
• Coverage for repatriation due to medical reasons or death
• Recognition by all embassies and consulates

AXA Schengen is an accredited provider of Schengen visa insurance and offers multi-trip policies for frequent business travellers. Upon purchasing AXA Schengen insurance, you will receive your personal insurance certificate via email, which can be printed and submitted with your visa application.

Other Articles You May Find Useful:

• How to apply for a tourist visa for Switzerland
• How to apply for a marriage visa for Switzerland
• How to apply for a visitor visa for Switzerland
• Invitation letter requirements for a visitor visa to Switzerland

When Should You Apply for a Swiss Business Visa?

Applications can be submitted up to 6 months before the planned trip but ideally at least 2 months before departure. If this is not possible, contact the nearest Swiss representation.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for a Swiss Business Visa?

Yes, travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 valid in all Schengen countries is mandatory for a business visa.

Which AXA Travel Insurance is Best for a Business Visa?

For frequent business travellers to Switzerland and Europe, AXA’s Multi-Trip Annual Insurance is recommended. For one-time business trips to Switzerland, AXA offers the Low Cost Insurance starting at €22 per week or the Europe Travel Insurance with extended coverage starting at €33 per week.