Switzerland has been one of the most sought-after vacation destinations for Indian travellers. And if you’re planning to apply for a Schengen visa to visit this dreamy destination soon, then don’t miss out on these latest updates. VFS Global, a visa outsourcing company, recently shared that Indians travelling to Switzerland on a Schengen visa have to follow new guidelines, which means only the mentioned documents will be accepted at the Visa Application Centre (VAC). Scroll down to check the official checklist.
New Official Checklist For Schengen Visa
As per the latest guidelines shared by VFG Global, the Visa Application Centre (VAC) will accept only those documents specified in the official checklist for each visa category. Here’s the full checklist for Indians applying for a Schengen visa to visit Switzerland.
- Valid national passport issued within the last 10 years, and should have three months’ validity after the return date and at least two blank pages.
- One passport-size photograph, click in a white background and not older than six months.
- Complete and signed visa application form. If needed, a third-party authorisation should also be provided.
- For business travel, an original introduction letter on business letterhead from the applicant’s employer is required. This letter must be signed and stamped by HR or the director, and should mention the applicant’s job title, work duration, and a ‘no objection statement’ for the trip with travel dates and purpose.
- Flight reservation
- Travel insurance
- Hotel booking confirmations, package tours or proof of advance payments.
- Financial documents that include salary slips, bank statements, and personal income tax returns (ITRs).
Also Read: Schengen Visa To Go Fully Digital By 2028, Replacing Traditional Stickers With Encrypted 2D Barcode
As per officials, if you’re submitting a long bank statement, only the first three pages and the last three pages will be accepted. These strict guidelines have raised concerns among visa applicants.
Other Changes In The Visa Process
Along with Indian, VFS Global also introduced new significant changes in the Schengen visa process for UAE travellers. As of June 18, 2025, applicants are now required to complete the online visa application form before booking an appointment.
Moreover, as per the European Union, the Schengen visa will be fully digital by 2028. The traditional visa stickers will be replaced by an encrypted 2D digital barcode to make travel digital and seamless.
So, if you’re planning to visit Switzerland soon, make sure you check out all these latest guidelines.
Also Read:5-Year Schengen Visa Processed In Less Than A Week? Indian Redditor Shares How They Made It Happen!
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