Planning to begin your Switzerland study journey? Before you pack your bags, you’ll need to secure the right visa and residence permit. Read this visa guide for studying in Switzerland first. It will walk you through everything step by step.
Types of Student Visas
Switzerland issues different visas depending on the duration of your program:
- Short-Term Visa (Schengen Visa, Type C)
- For courses or summer programs under 90 days.
- Valid for language courses, summer camps, or short study visits.
- Long-Term Student Visa (National Visa, Type D)
- Required for any study program longer than 90 days.
- Common for bachelor’s, master’s, or diploma programs at universities and private schools.
The Residence Permit (Permis B)
A visa allows you to enter Switzerland. But to stay and study legally for months or years, you must obtain a residence permit after arrival.
- What is Permis B?
A residence permit issued by the cantonal migration office where you will live and study. - Duration:Â Usually valid for one year, renewable each year of your study.
- Requirements:Â Proof of enrollment, accommodation, health insurance, and sufficient financial means.
- Work Rights: In many cantons, students may work up to 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays (check cantonal rules).
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Secure Admission
- Obtain an official acceptance letter from your Swiss university, hospitality school, or language institute.
- Apply for the D Visa at Your Local Embassy
- Submit your application to the Swiss consulate/embassy in your home country.
- Documents required:
- Valid passport
- Acceptance letter
- Proof of funds (approx. CHF 21,000 per year)
- Health insurance
- Accommodation details
- Motivation letter and study plan
- Arrival in Switzerland
- Enter Switzerland using your D visa.
- Register with Local Authorities
- Within 14 days of arrival, register your residence at the local commune/municipality.
- Apply for the Residence Permit (Permis B)
- Submit documents at the cantonal migration office.
- Provide proof of enrollment, health insurance, accommodation, and finances.
- Pay the processing fee (varies by canton).
- Receive Your Permit
- Processing time can take a few weeks. You will receive a residence card, which serves as your legal identification in Switzerland.
Tips for a Successful Visa & Permit Process
- Apply early – visa processing can take 8–12 weeks.
- Prepare finances – Switzerland requires proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
- Check cantonal rules – some cantons have specific work or residency regulations.
- Keep all documents updated – expired insurance or financial proof may delay your renewal.
Conclusion
Getting your visa and residence permit may seem complex, but with the right guidance it is very manageable. The D visa gets you into Switzerland, while the Permis B allows you to stay, study, and sometimes work throughout your academic journey.
With GlobalLink Suisse, you’ll receive expert support for every step of the process — from your first application to renewing your permit each year. Contact us to make your study journey easy
