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Visiting Switzerland

Entry requirements, visa information, and travel guide for Switzerland

Quick Facts

Switzerland is a Schengen Area member. Whether you need ETIAS, a Schengen Visa, or nothing at all depends on your nationality.

Capital Bern
Currency CHF
Schengen Yes
Languages German, French, Italian, Romansh

About Switzerland

Switzerland is synonymous with the Alps, and for good reason. The iconic Matterhorn, the Jungfrau region, and the glacial lakes of Lucerne and Interlaken offer some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery on Earth. The country's efficient rail network, including panoramic routes like the Glacier Express, makes it easy to take in the views without a car.

Zurich and Geneva are cosmopolitan cities known for finance, international diplomacy, and high culture, while smaller towns like Zermatt and Grindelwald cater to skiers and hikers alike. Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, watches, and cheese, and while it is one of Europe's most expensive countries, the quality of infrastructure and scenery is unmatched. Switzerland is not an EU member but is part of the Schengen Area, and it uses the Swiss franc rather than the Euro.

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Capital Bern
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Currency CHF
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Population 9.0 million
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Languages German, French, Italian, Romansh

Entry Requirements for Switzerland

  • EU/EEA citizens Travel freely with passport or national ID. No visa or ETIAS needed.
  • Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, etc.) No visa needed for stays up to 90 days. ETIAS required from Q4 2026 (€20).
  • Visa-required nationals Schengen Visa required (€80). Apply at embassy of your main destination.

Airports in Switzerland

Travel Questions about Switzerland

Do I need a visa or ETIAS to visit Switzerland?
It depends on your nationality. EU citizens travel freely. Citizens from 60 visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Canada, etc.) will need ETIAS from Q4 2026 (€20). All other nationalities need a Schengen Visa (€80). Use our checker to find your requirements.
Is Switzerland in the Schengen Area?
Yes, Switzerland is a Schengen Area member. A single visa or ETIAS covers all 30 Schengen countries.
How long can I stay in Switzerland?
It depends on your status. EU citizens can stay indefinitely. Non-EU visitors can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined — including time spent in Switzerland.

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