Switzerland is a premier study destination among Indian students due to its world-class education system, prestigious universities, and research institutions. Its strong economy has ample job opportunities for students, while the country also offers a high standard of living and boasts a multicultural environment for students.
If you, too, are planning to pursue your higher studies in Switzerland, here is all you need to know about getting a Switzerland education visa, Switzerland student visa requirements for Indian students, the visa fee, and the processing time for visa applications.
Key highlights:
- Switzerland Study Visa for Indian Students
- Types of Switzerland Study Visa from India
- Switzerland Student Visa Requirements
- Eligibility Criteria
- List of Documents
- Application Procedure
- Switzerland Visa Price
- Switzerland Student Visa Processing Time
Switzerland Study Visa for Indian Students
Before applying for a Switzerland education visa, you must secure admission to a university in the country. After securing admission and collecting the admission or offer letter, you can apply for this student visa at the Swiss Embassy in India or one of the various Swiss visa application centres in India.
Types of Switzerland Student Visa from India
Schengen Visa, Type C (Short-Term Visa)
This type of Switzerland student visa allows you to enter and stay in Switzerland for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. This visa is suitable for those planning to pursue short-term courses, language studies, or exchange programmes.
National Visa, Type D (Long-Term Visa)
This type of Switzerland study visa is for Indian students who plan to study in Switzerland for a longer duration (more than 90 days). Those planning to pursue a full-time degree should apply for the type D visa.
Switzerland Student Visa Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- You must first obtain admission to a Swiss university. Different universities may have different eligibility requirements that you must meet before applying for a Switzerland study visa.
- You must be able to prove your financial ability to stay and study in Switzerland.
List of Documents
- National passport with at least 3 months of validity after your scheduled return.
- Clear copy of the biodata page and the last page of the passport.
- Clear copies of USA, Canada, or UK visas, if any.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Duly filled and signed visa application forms.
- Personal cover letter.
- Acceptance/offer/registration letter from a Swiss school, with copies of bank statements, if applicable.
- Originals and 2 copies of all relevant academic degrees.
- English language proficiency tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
- Original Curriculum Vitae and a copy.
- Proof of funds.
Application Procedure
- Secure admission at a Swiss university.
- Identify the type of Swiss study visa you need to apply for.
- Begin the process by filling out the visa application form online and taking a printout of the same.
- Check all the Switzerland study visa requirements and collect the required documents.
- Book an appointment at the Swiss embassy or a nearby visa application centre.
- Pay the required visa fee and download the payment receipt.
- Submit your application, with all required documents and receipts, at the embassy or visa application centre on the day of your scheduled appointment.
- Track your application.
- Once your application is approved, you can collect your passport from the embassy or application centre.
Switzerland Visa Price
The cost of a Switzerland study visa, or the visa fees, is INR 8,800 for those aged over 12 years for the type D visa as well as the type C visa.
It is important to remember that the visa fees may change, so it is advised to check the prevailing student visa fees when you apply.
Also Read: Switzerland Education System: Features and Education Levels
Switzerland Student Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a type C Switzerland student visa application is generally 15 days from the day of submission of the application and all required documents. Applications for the type D visa require approval from the authorities in Switzerland, so the processing time for a type D visa application generally ranges from 8 to 12 weeks.
At Avanse Financial Services, we offer hassle-free study loan options for students planning to pursue their higher studies in Switzerland. With multiple benefits, like quick loan sanctions, 100% finance, and flexible repayment options, we can help you achieve your dreams.
You can also use our online tools like the eligibility calculator, college course expense calculator, and education loan EMI calculator to make an informed decision. Whether you need an education loan to study abroad or to study in India, or if you need some guidance, we are just a call away.