Switzerland•EuropeType A — Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
At a Glance
1–3 weeks
EUR €45–€90
Varies by filing options
Duration of transit
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Transit pass for nationals requiring visas to cross Swiss airport international zones without Schengen Area entry.
The Swiss Type A Airport Transit Visa is designed exclusively for travelers passing through the international transit zone of a Swiss airport without entering the Schengen Area. This visa does not permit entry into Switzerland or exit from the transit zone. Applicants must provide proof of onward travel to a non-Schengen destination.
Processing takes 7 to 21 days. Fees are EUR 90 for adults, EUR 45 for children aged 6 to 12, and free for children under 6. The visa covers the duration of your transit connection only. There is no PR pathway, and the visa is not renewable. Spouses cannot work and cannot obtain independent work authorization through this visa.
This visa is ideal for international travelers from visa-required countries transiting through Swiss airports to reach non-Schengen destinations.
Cost Breakdown
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Valid passport
Proof of onward travel (flight ticket to a non-Schengen destination)
Visa for the final destination (if required)
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Proof of onward travel
Visa for final destination
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Fast processing — typically 7-21 days
- Free visa for children under 6 years old
- Modest fees: EUR 90 for adults, EUR 45 for children aged 6 to 12
- No language proficiency requirement for application
- No work authorization complications — not intended for employment
Worth Knowing
- Limited to transit zone only — cannot enter Switzerland or the Schengen Area
- Valid only for the duration of the transit connection, typically a few hours
- Must provide proof of onward travel to a non-Schengen destination and final destination visa before applying
- Nationals of countries not requiring transit visas are non-qualifying
- Closed to anyone intending to enter the Schengen Area
Application Process
Check if transit visa is required for your nationality
Submit application to Swiss representation
Provide proof of onward travel
Application Forms
| Visa Application Form | Fill online |
Related visas
More visas in Switzerland
Transit visas in other countries
- Bridging visa E (BVE) - General
Australia
- Transit Visa (96 Hours)
United Arab Emirates
- Airport Transit Visa (Viza A - Aerodromska tranzitna viza)
Serbia
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