6 days ago
Switzerland updates Schengen visa rules for Indians. What's changed in the latest rejig?
iStock If you're heading to Switzerland, make sure to stick to the updated visa rules. VFS Global, which handles visa applications for the Swiss Embassy in India, now says only documents on the official checklist will be accepted. Don't send any extra papers or explanations, they won't be considered, and there's no option to add more later.
'All the applicants are hereby informed that only the documents listed in the official checklist for the respective visa category will be accepted at the Visa Application Centre (VAC),' the Schengen visa alert reads. VFS also clarified that if you're submitting lengthy bank statements, only the first three pages and the last three pages will be accepted.
ALSO READ: Schengen visa to go fully digital: No more lengthy paperwork & traditional visa stickers According to the current VFS Global's 2025 checklist for the Schengen Visa, all applicants need to submit a complete set of documents strictly limited to those listed in the official guidelines, including: A valid passport issued within the last 10 years, with 3 months' validity beyond the return date and at least two blank pages. One recent passport-size photo (white background, not older than 6 months). Must be pasted, not stapled or pinned. Completed and signed visa application form, and for minors, signed by legal guardians with proof of custody if applicable. An introduction letter from your employer, on company letterhead, signed and stamped by HR. Must include your position, dates of travel, purpose of visit, and a no-objection statement. Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of INR 30,36,660 (EUR 30,000), valid across Schengen countries. Must include medical emergencies and cover the full trip duration. Confirmed return flight tickets with traveller names and include intra-Schengen travel plans, if any. Hotel bookings, tour confirmations, or payment receipts are mandatory according to the Schengen visa alert. Financial proof (all documents in A4, stamped and signed by the bank): Last 3 months' salary slips, personal bank statements, and ITR-Vs for the last 2 years if you are employed, business registration, 3 months' bank statements, ITR-Vs if you are self-employed, and pension statements (3 months), proof of other income (e.g. rent) if you are retired. Family applications: You can submit together, and only the head of the family needs to attach financial documents, insurance, and bookings (with all names mentioned). For students (16+): Student ID and an introduction letter from the school or university. For minors (under 18): If not travelling with both parents, notarised consent from non-travelling parent(s) is required, and if travelling alone, notarised consent from both parents should be submitted alongside copies of both parents' passports, PAN cards or driving licences.
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