Switzerland•Europe

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National Visa Type D - Student

Study Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

2–3 months

Estimated Cost

CHF 170 CHF

Varies by filing options

Stay Duration

Duration of study program

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Overview

For individuals admitted to an accredited Swiss educational institution for long-term study.

The Type D Student visa is a long-term national visa for international students. It requires coordination between the Swiss embassy and the cantonal migration authority where the school is located. Students are permitted to work part-time after an initial six-month waiting period.

Cost Breakdown

Visa application feeCHF 75 CHF

Residence permit authorizationCHF 95 CHF

TotalCHF 170 CHF

Stay & Extensions

Status type

Tied to program duration

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Switzerland

L Permit - Post-Graduation Job Seeker

Validity6 months

Processing1–2 months

View Visa Details

B — Residence Permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung)

Switzerland

B — Residence Permit (Aufenthaltsbewilligung)

Validity5 years

Processing1–2 months

View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Unconditional admission to an accredited Swiss educational institution

Proof of financial means (approx. CHF 21,000/year)

Written commitment to leave Switzerland after studies

KEY CRITERIA

Education

high_school or higher

Min. Savings

21,000 EUR

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Proof of financial means

Confirmation of enrollment

Motivation letter

Written commitment to leave

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Access to Swiss education
Part-time work rights after 6 months

Worth Knowing

Long processing times
Strict financial requirements
Lack of admission to accredited institution
Insufficient financial proof

Application Process

Secure admission

Submit visa application to embassy

Embassy forwards to cantonal authority

Cantonal authority approves residence permit

Application Forms

Visa Application Form

Fill online

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