Swiss Visa for U.S. students

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Swiss Visa for U.S. students

Please note: only Americans or foreign residents and foreign students in the United States who have got a valid Permanent Resident Card or a valid U.S. visa (e.g. categories F1 (I-20), H1B, G1, J1, etc.) may apply for a Swiss visa. If you have a B1 and/or B2 visa, you must apply in your country of residence.

If you apply in person, you must provide an original and copies of each of the below-mentioned documents (including copies of your passport/travel document and your US-visa).
If you apply by mail, you must provide the Swiss representation with notarized copies of documents under points 4-9.

Requirements:

1. Three application forms, fully completed and signed by the applicant. Applications which are not duly completed, dated and signed will not be accepted. Please also indicate your e-mail address and a contact phone number in case additional information is required.
2. Four recent passport photos per applicant (very strict requirements, please consult the details on the webpage)
3. Two copies of the applicant's valid passport
4. If, applicable, proof of residency in the USA (i.e. a valid F1 or H1B multiple-entry visa together with a valid "I" form or another appropriate form or valid US-Green Card). Notarized copy if
   applying by mail
5. Two copies of confirmation/registration letter from the school, university, etc. in Switzerland
6. Two copies of confirmation of payment of school tuition fees
7. A statement containing exact details of the applicant's income and assets, with official proof and/or bank statements (2 copies each)
8. Two copies of previous diplomas and school certificates
9. Two copies of a written confirmation that the applicant will leave Switzerland after he/she completes the chosen course study
10. Two copies of a resume (biographical data, schools attended, etc.)
11. Two copies of a brief essay on the applicant's future plans
12. Visa fee & additional postage fee

Your request will be forwarded for a decision to the competent cantonal foreign police where you intend to study and the representation will only be able to issue your visa upon receipt of the authorization. Please note that the procedure takes at least 6-8 weeks.
Once the authorization has been given, you will have to send the following documents to the competent Swiss representation in order to obtain you visa:

1. Original passport
2. If applying by mail: one prepaid, self-addressed, return envelope with a tracking number

Swiss Universities Handbook