Coming from a third (non-EU/EFTA) country

Students or pupils coming from a third-world country can come to Switzerland for education if they have been accepted by a university or school, that is to say if their previous diplomas have been recognized.
In order to obtain a residence permit, students must also prove that they have financial resources that are judged as sufficient. They must also undertake, in writing, to inform the concerned authorities that they will leave Switzerland at the end of their studies or if their formation is interrupted.

Warning
Swiss authorities are not obliged to grant a visa or residence permit to a national of a third country for educational reasons. The decision resides upon the concerned Migration offices.

When a visa is required

The students, nationals of a state of which Switzerland knows the visa obligations, must address themselves to the Swiss representation in their country as soon as possible. It takes about 6 weeks for the demand to be treated.

Residence permit

To avoid any bad surprises, students, nationals from countries not requiring a visa, must guarantee the grant of a residence permit before their arrival in Switzerland. Address yourself to the competent authorities in the canton where your future institution of study is found.

Getting a visa or residence permit

In your request for a visa or residence permit, you must detail the particular interest which represents your desire to carry out the formation you have chosen. You must then show the importance of your desire to choose Switzerland as your country of study in relation to your professional objectives and your chances of a future. Finally, you have to favorably argument the length of your stay. The following documents are to be attached to your request :

• An attestation  of admission to your university or school
• A curriculum vitae
• A copy of your identity credentials
• Justification concerning you financial situation : bank statements, documents relating to an educational grant, an attestation of a recognized and solvent person who will commit him-/herself to finance you expenses, etc.
• A personally signed confirmation in which you declare that you will be ready to leave Switzerland at the end of your studies or if they are interrupted.

Warning
In some cases, the admission into a university or school depends on an entrance exam. You will be possible for you to request a 6-month residence permit in preparation for the entrance exam. However, Swiss authorities are not obliged to grant you a residence permit.

Arriving in Switzerland

Once you have arrived in Switzerland and are enrolled or registered, you are required to present yourself to the Migration office of the canton or town of your residence as soon as possible. You must provide the following :

• Your passeport
• A photo
• A valid student card
• Documents proving that you have sufficient financial means

Student resident permits are valid for a maximum of one year. If you stay for longer, consider prolonging your permit on time. A written request for prolongation must accompany the attestation of current studies.

 Warning
A change in the orientation of your studies or a change of school must be communicated to the Migration office of your canton or town of residence. In the case of students from third countries, the resident permit does not generally need to be renewed after a change of orientation.

• Apply for a resident permit