STUDENT VISA AND PERMITS

STUDENT VISA AND PERMITS:

              The students wishing to study in Switzerland must obtain all the proper permits from the authorities in charge to stay in the country. Here's how the process works.
Student visas are issued much like permits for foreign workers, with students from European countries enjoying more relaxed procedures than those from third states.

Student visas are issued much like permits for foreign workers, with students from European countries enjoying more relaxed procedures than those from third states.
EU/EFTA nationals

Within 13/14 days of arriving in Switzerland EU/EFTA nationals must register with local authorities in the town where they will live to apply for a residence permit.

• Applicants must prove they have health insurance and enough funds to cover living costs.
•  Applicants must prove they have come to Switzerland to study full-time and that they are properly enrolled at a university or a recognized college.

A residence permit will be issued for the duration of the programme, provided it lasts less than one(1) year. If the studies extend over a period of several years, the permit is valid for one(1) year also must be renewed each year until the completion of the studies.

Students may get jobs and work, but for no more than 14/15 hours a week. Otherwise students are considered employed and must apply for a work permit.

A spouse and dependent children may join the student in Switzerland. Family members may also work.

THIRD-STATE APPLICANTS:

      Students from non-EU/EFTA member states must apply for a visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in their home country. Please visit the foreign ministry’s website to find Swiss missions around the world.

The application must include a certificate from the school or institution to be attended, proof of payment of school fees and means of support during studies, a written commitment that the student will leave Switzerland upon completion of the programme, as well as a curriculum vitae(C.V). Swiss authorities may also organize a language test to make sure the student is able to follow lessons.

The cantons are responsible for issuing the permits. For detailed information on the application procedure (where to apply, which form to fill in, how long it takes, etc.), please contact the relevant cantonal office. A list of addresses can be found here.