Stays of up to three months

Switzerland has been an associate member of the Schengen Agreement, and thus part of the Schengen Area since 12 December 2008. The provisions of the Schengen Agreement govern entry and stays that do not require a visa for up to three months.

Generally, staying in Switzerland without employment (e.g. for a visit, tourism) for up to three months does not require a permit. However, a visa is necessary for nationals of certain countries. Foreigners may stay in Switzerland for no more than three months within a six-month period calculated from the first time of entry. Persons requiring a visa must comply with the amount of time they are permitted to stay as stipulated on their visa.

To enter the country, foreigners must have a valid travel document that is recognized by Switzerland. For persons requiring a visa, Switzerland issues Schengen visas, which are generally valid for the entire Schengen Area for stays of up to three months.