Planning A Trip To Switzerland? Latest 2025 List Of Documents You Need For Schengen Visa Application

If you love picturesque villages, pristine lakes, cheese and chocolate, Switzerland is likely already on your bucket list. For those planning a trip, there is an important update regarding the documents required for a Schengen visa application. On July 28, 2025, VFS Global, which processes Schengen visa applications on behalf of the Swiss Embassy in India, announced that only documents listed in the official checklist for the respective visa category will be accepted at the Visa Application Centre (VAC).

VFS also clarified that in the case of lengthy bank statements, only the first three and the last three pages will be accepted. Any incorrect or incomplete forms may cause delays in visa processing.

According to the 2025 checklist issued by VFS Global for the Schengen Visa (Tourist category), applicants must submit a complete set of documents in the exact order specified below. Applicants are advised not to staple any documents.

Documents Checklist For The Schengen Visa (Tourist Category) 2025: 

1. Valid National Passport:

Issued within the last 10 years and with at least 3 months' validity after the scheduled return, with at least two blank pages. Handwritten passports and passports with observations regarding the front page (bio data) cannot be accepted.

2. One Passport-Size Picture:

• White background, not older than 6 months (size 35 - 40 mm in width, not copied or scanned picture).
• Picture to be pasted on the application form, stapled or pinned pictures cannot be accepted. For more details, refer here.

3. Visa Application Form:

• Completed and signed by the applicant, if applicable, authorisation of a third person.
• If the applicant is a minor, the visa application must be signed by a legal guardian or guardians and, if applicable, authorisation of a third person. (Proving the custody of a minor child, divorce papers, death certificate, etc.)

4. Introduction Letter:

• The letter (original document) needs to be on a business letterhead from the employer/company.
• The letter must be signed and stamped by HR or the directorate, specifying the position and duration of service.
• 'No objection statement' regarding the planned trip to Switzerland/Schengen States.
• Mentioning travel dates and the purpose of the trip.

5. Travel Insurance:

• Click here to view the list of approved Indian travel insurance providers.
• Minimum coverage of 30,000 euros per person.
• Coverage of all expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention
• and/or emergency hospital treatment.
• The insurance has to cover the entire stay within the Schengen territory.
• Applicants who wish to apply for a six-month or one-year multiple visa are not required to provide 180 (or 365) days of coverage. It is sufficient to submit an insurance policy covering the first journey.

6. Flight Reservation:

• With the names of all travellers.
• If applicable, proof of intra-Schengen flights, train itinerary or car rental.

7. Proof Of Accommodation In Switzerland / Schengen States:

Confirmation of hotel reservations, package tours, and advance payments. 

The application should be submitted at the local Visa Facilitation Centre VFS. Find the Switzerland Visa Application Centre website here. The visa application form is available for download free of charge from our website.