Swiss visa resources
Documents for a Switzerland national visa (type D) application
A national visa application is made on the type D form at a Swiss representation abroad, with a valid travel document, photos and evidence supporting your specific purpose of stay.
Important
For a stay of more than 90 days you apply for a national (type D) visa in writing, using the national visa application form, at the Swiss representation abroad responsible for your place of residence. The exact document checklist is published by that representation and depends on your purpose of stay, so always confirm it against the embassy/consulate page for your country.
The core documents establish your identity, the purpose and circumstances of your stay, and that you have the means to support yourself. Because the representation forwards your file to the cantonal migration office for a decision, supporting evidence for your route (job, study place, family link) is central.
Core documents
- Completed and signed national (type D) visa application form
- A valid travel document issued less than ten years ago and valid beyond your intended departure
- Passport photos meeting Schengen photo requirements
- Evidence of the purpose of your stay (e.g. employment contract/permit approval, letter of admission from a school/university, or family documents)
- Proof of sufficient financial means for your stay and return
Good to know
- Apply in good time, well before the intended travel date
- The precise list, translations and legalisation requirements vary by representation and purpose
- Any cantonal or SEM authorisation you have already obtained should be presented with the application
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.