What is the cost and processing time for a Switzerland work visa for Indian applicants?

A Switzerland work visa for Indians costs around ₹7,000-₹10,000 as the standard visa application fee. The overall cost of a work visa to Switzerland from India also includes additional VFS Global service charges (approx. ₹2,000-3,000) and courier services (approx. ₹ 1,000), increasing the total fee.

The standard processing time for a Switzerland work visa from India is approximately 6 to 12 weeks. The processing time for a Switzerland work visa (long-term work permit) may be extended if there is workload at the cantonal level, a high volume of applications, or incorrect documentation.

The eligibility requirements for a Switzerland work visa are as follows:

• Valid job offer letter/employment contract from a Swiss employer.
• Attested university degree/diploma(bachelor’s/master’s).
• Proof of work experience.
• Proof of language proficiency.
• Labour market test to justify the position could not be filled by local workers.
• Valid health insurance.
• Minimum salary requirements meet Swiss standards.
• Valid passport.

Yes, it is possible to partially apply for a Switzerland work visa online as the entire process is not digitalised. You can fill out the visa application form and submit the documents online through the official Swiss visa system, but you will need to be present for in-person verification of your documents. An appointment is scheduled after submitting the application for an interview, biometric data collection, and document verification at the Swiss Embassy/Consulate.

Yes, it is mandatory to secure a valid job offer with an employment contract from a Swiss employer to apply for a Switzerland work visa. After job confirmation, the employer initiates the process of work permit approval, following which you can submit the visa application with the required documents at the nearest Swiss Embassy/Consulate.

The steps to get a Switzerland work visa from India are as follows:

1. Secure a valid job offer with an employment contract in a Swiss company.
2. The Swiss employer provided relevant documents to prove that the position could not be filled locally.
3. The employer submits the work permit application, along with the necessary documents, to the cantonal authorities in Switzerland.
4. Upon the work permit approval, you can apply for the visa at the nearest VFS Global Centre.
5. Gather the required documents, including the visa application form, passport, photos, employment contract, and proof of qualifications, for verification.
6. Appear for the scheduled appointment to verify documents and submit biometric data.
7. Fly to Switzerland upon successful approval of the work visa.