Long-stay visas (Type D)
Swiss Student Residence Permit
A residence permit letting foreign nationals live in Switzerland for full-time study at a recognised Swiss school, university or training institution.
Under review — check current rules
Important information
- Issued by
- Cantonal migration office (D-visa via Swiss embassy for third-country students)
- Permit type
- Permit B (residence, for study)
- Duration
- Typically one academic year, renewable while studying
- Key condition
- Admission to a recognised institution + proof of sufficient funds
- Third-country students
- No entitlement; cantonal consent required
- Intention to leave
- Third-country students must show they will leave after studies
Who it's for
- Foreign nationals admitted to a recognised Swiss university, higher school or training programme
- Full-time students, postgraduates and recognised vocational/professional trainees
- Language-course students on eligible long-term programmes
Requirements
- Confirmed admission/enrolment at a recognised Swiss educational institution
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover tuition and living costs
- Suitable accommodation in Switzerland
- Valid health and accident insurance
- A credible study plan and, for third-country nationals, intention to leave after studies
- For third-country nationals: cantonal migration authority consent
What you can do
- Reside in Switzerland for the duration of the course
- Renew the permit each year while enrolled and meeting the conditions
- Take limited ancillary employment subject to the applicable hours limit and conditions
- Progress to a work permit after graduation where the economic-interest rules are met
How to apply
After securing admission to the institution, third-country students apply for a national (D) visa at the Swiss embassy/consulate, submitting enrolment, funding and insurance evidence; the file is checked by the cantonal migration authority.
Once in Switzerland the student registers with the commune and cantonal migration office, which issues the B study permit. EU/EFTA students enter without a visa and register locally, receiving the permit under free-movement rules.
Documents
- Valid passport
- Letter of admission / enrolment confirmation from the institution
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, scholarship or sponsorship letter)
- Proof of accommodation
- Health and accident insurance
- Motivation letter / study plan and CV
Frequently asked questions
No. Unlike EU/EFTA students, third-country nationals have no automatic right; the cantonal migration authority decides at its discretion and expects proof of funds and an intention to leave after the studies.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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