Thinking about moving to Switzerland for work, study, or to join your family? If you’re planning to stay for more than 90 days and you’re not from an EU or EFTA country, you’ll need a Type D visa — and eventually, a B permit.
One important document you’ll need early in the process is a letter of enrollment — find out what it is and why you need it.
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into your complete step-by-step guide to applying for a Swiss long-stay visa online — and what comes next.
👉 Looking for a full overview of how the Swiss visa system works? Check out our guide on how to navigate the Swiss visa process.
Needs Who a Swiss Long-Stay Visa?
If you’re staying in Switzerland for longer than 90 days, a short-term tourist visa won’t be enough. A Type D visa is required for:
- Starting a new job
- Studying at a Swiss university
- Reuniting with a spouse or family member
- Launching a business
EU/EFTA nationals don’t need a D visa, but must register with Swiss authorities after arrival.
Can You Submit a Swiss Long-Stay Visa Online?
Partially.
While Switzerland doesn’t offer a 100% online visa process, you can start your application online:
- Fill out the application form
- Book an appointment with your nearest consulate
- In some cases, upload documents ahead of time
You’ll still need to go in person to submit your documents and provide biometric data.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Type D Visa
Start with the Swiss consulate website
Go to the Swiss representation for your country (e.g. Swiss embassy in India or US).
Fill out the Type D visa application
You can often download the form or complete it via the Swiss Visa Portal.Book an appointment
Secure a time slot at the consulate or visa center.
- Prepare your documents (full list below)
Submit your application in person
Bring your documents, signed form, passport photos, and payment.
Wait for approval
This can take several weeks to months, depending on your nationality and visa type.
It is important to keep in mind that the approval process can take a while. Some of our students had to wait 4 – 12 weeks from the day of their in-person appointment. But in some cases it can also take up to 3 months and longer, so it is best to calculate enough time beforehand.
Required Documents for a Type D Visa
- Valid passport
- Completed and signed application form
- Passport-sized photos (Swiss standards)
- Purpose-specific documents:
- Work: Employment contract
- Study: University acceptance letter
- Family: Proof of relationship, sponsor documents
- Proof of accommodation in Switzerland
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Health insurance
- Letter of enrollment (Proof that you an enrolled in an A1-German course)
Don’t forget to avoid common mistakes like submitting incomplete documents or providing inconsistent information — these are some of the main reasons applications get delayed or rejected.
What Happens After You Arrive in Switzerland?
You’re not done yet! Once you arrive:
Register with the local authorities
Do this within 14 days of arriving. You’ll need to provide your address, passport, visa, and other ID.
Apply for your B Permit (residence permit)
This is your legal right to live in Switzerland. It’s usually valid for 1 to 5 years.
Biometrics + Residence Card
You’ll be invited to a migration office to submit fingerprints and get your official residence card.
Why You Should Learn German
Learning German isn’t just helpful — for many, it’s required.
Here’s why:
- Language skills are needed for some long-stay visas and B permit renewals
- Work opportunities increase drastically with even basic German
- Daily life is easier: opening a bank account, renting an apartment, going to the doctor
- Integration requirements in some cantons include passing a language exam (A1 or higher)
We offer German courses designed for expats preparing for visas, job relocations, and settling in Switzerland confidently.
For example, one of our students, Marcela — a PhD candidate at ETH Zürich — completed our A1 German course while finishing her doctorate. The language skills she gained not only helped her land a job in her field after graduation, but also made it much easier to connect with new people and build friendships in Switzerland.
Ready to Move to Switzerland?
Starting a new life in Switzerland is exciting — but it’s also complex.
We help you make the transition smoother by combining visa knowledge with practical, real-world German language training.
👉 Explore our German courses for expats and future Swiss residents
