Switzerland Visa Fees for Indians: Full Breakdown

Dreaming of exploring the snow-capped Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and charming cities like Zurich and Lucerne? You're not alone.

In 2024, the number of overnight stays by visitors from Asia rose sharply to 4.4 million, with India contributing significantly with a 10.6% increase, reaching 64,000 more stays than in 2023.

This upward trend shows that more Indian travellers than ever are setting their sights on Switzerland.

Before you pack your bags for the ultimate Swiss adventure, understanding the Switzerland visa fees is a critical first step, especially for Indian travellers planning their 2025 getaway.

According to the official VFS Global website, the short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) for adults currently costs €90 (approx. ₹8,100). But there’s more to budgeting than just the base fee.

This blog offers a complete breakdown of Switzerland visa fees for Indians, along with expert tips to help you plan smartly and avoid hidden costs.

Switzerland Visa Types

Before diving into the fee structure, it’s important to understand the different types of Switzerland visas available to Indian travellers.

Each visa type has a specific purpose and may influence the total Switzerland visa fees you incur.

• Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C): This is the most common visa for tourists and business visitors staying up to 90 days in Switzerland or other Schengen countries. It’s the standard option for most applicants looking for leisure or short-term travel.
• Airport Transit Visa (Type A): Required for travellers transiting through a Swiss airport en route to a non-Schengen destination. This visa doesn’t allow you to exit the international zone.
• Long-Stay National Visa (Type D): For those planning to stay in Switzerland for over 90 days for purposes like work, study, or joining family. These visas often have different documentation and fee requirements.
• Student Visa: Designed for Indian students pursuing courses longer than 90 days in Swiss universities. Fees and documentation vary depending on the duration and institution.

Whether you're applying for a tourist, student, or business visa, understanding the applicable Switzerland visa fees for Indians ensures a smoother and well-budgeted application process.

Switzerland Visa Fees Breakdown

Here’s a detailed look at the latest visa fees for Indian applicants in 2025:

Note: INR equivalents vary with exchange rates. Fees are payable in cash or online at the VFS centre.

Factors That Affect the Switzerland Visa Fees

The actual Switzerland visa fees may vary based on the following:

1. Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Fees are charged in EUR, and INR costs change daily.
2. Service Add-ons: Premium lounges, courier, or SMS updates come with extra costs.
3. Visa Type: Long-term visas or other categories like study/work permits may have different pricing.
4. Peak Season Demand: High volume periods may lead to longer processing times and additional facilitation costs.
5. Document Assistance: If using agents or third-party services, charges apply for form filling and appointment scheduling.

Refund Policy

• Non-refundable Fees: The visa application fee is non-refundable even if your visa is rejected.
• Rescheduling: Appointments can be rescheduled once within a given time frame at no additional charge.
• No Transfer Policy: You cannot transfer your fee or slot to another applicant.

How to Calculate Total Visa Cost

When budgeting your trip to Switzerland, factor in more than just the base visa fee:

1. Visa Application Fee: €90 for adults, €45 for children.
2. VFS Service Fee: Around €30 per application.
3. Optional Services: SMS tracking, photocopying, courier delivery, etc.
4. Travel to VFS Centre: Add transportation and possible accommodation costs.
5. Travel Insurance: Mandatory for Schengen visa (covers up to €30,000).
6. Document Prep & Translation: If required, adds additional charges.

Estimated Total Cost:

• Adults: ₹10,500 to ₹13,000 approx.
• Children (6-11): ₹6,700 to ₹7,800 approx.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Paying Switzerland Visa Fees

1. Wrong Amount Paid: Always verify the latest fees on the official VFS website.
2. Using Unverified Agents: Stick to authorised sources for appointments and form submissions.
3. Incorrect Payment Method: Follow VFS guidelines for accepted modes.
4. Missing Proof of Payment: Always retain your payment receipts.
5. Booking Services You Don’t Need: Optional services are not mandatory.
6. Ignoring Exchange Rate Impact: Daily fluctuations can alter your INR cost.

How to Stay Informed About Fee Changes

1. Official Sources: Regularly check VFS Global - Switzerland for real-time fee updates.
2. Subscribe to Updates: Sign up for Visa2Fly alerts to stay informed.
3. Follow Social Pages: The Swiss Embassy and VFS share important updates on social media.
4. Know the Process: Stay informed with our Switzerland visa appointment guide.

Impact of Switzerland Visa Fee on Visa Approval Chances

• Fees Don’t Influence Decisions: Paying more does not guarantee approval.
• Eligibility Matters: A complete and truthful application increases your chances.
• Interview Performance Counts: Be clear and confident about your travel intentions.
• Supporting Documents: Solid financial proof and return plans are essential.

FAQs

Q1. What are the current Switzerland visa fees for Indians in 2025?

The base fee for adults is €90 (₹8,100), and for children aged 6–11, it’s €45 (₹4,050). Additional services and optional charges may apply.

Q2. Are Switzerland visa fees refundable if my application is rejected?

No, all application and service fees are non-refundable as per VFS and embassy policies.

Q3. Do Switzerland visa fees for Indians vary by city?

No, the fees remain uniform across India. However, optional services or agent charges might vary.

Q4. What’s the total cost I should budget for a Switzerland tourist visa?

You should budget approximately ₹10,500–₹13,000, depending on the optional services and current euro-to-INR rate.

Q5. How can I avoid extra charges while applying?

Apply through trusted platforms like Visa2Fly, double-check currency rates, and avoid unnecessary premium services.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Switzerland

Once your visa is approved, it's time to explore! Switzerland offers breathtaking landscapes, cultural gems, and unforgettable adventures for every kind of traveller.

Whether you're planning your itinerary around Switzerland in May or travelling later in the year, don’t miss:

• Zermatt & the Matterhorn: Ideal for adventure lovers and photographers.
• Interlaken: A haven for paragliding, skydiving, and nature trails.
• Lucerne: Famous for its medieval architecture and beautiful lake views.
• Zurich: A perfect blend of city life, shopping, and alpine views.
• Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: Europe’s highest railway station with views that’ll take your breath away.

Why Choose Visa2Fly for Your Switzerland Visa?

Visa2Fly offers complete assistance tailored for Indian travellers applying for a Switzerland visa:

• End-to-end support, including travel insurance
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Professional help with documentation & translations
• Real-time updates and tracking features
• Hassle-free appointment booking

Whether you’re visiting during the Best time to visit Switzerland or planning a winter escape, we help make your journey seamless.

Conclusion

Whether you're travelling to Switzerland in May to enjoy blooming alpine valleys or in December for its Christmas markets, early budgeting and careful application help ensure a stress-free process. And while you're at it, check out our travel blog on Things to Know Before Visiting Switzerland to get insider tips.

Planning your trip is crucial, and budgeting for your Switzerland visa fees is the first and most important step.

The costs may vary slightly based on services chosen and euro-INR rates, but with the right preparation, surprises can be avoided.

Indian travellers should keep updated, avoid common mistakes, and consider using Visa2Fly for expert guidance.