Category: Countries

If you are wondering how to apply for UK Tourist visa from India, then here is a blog which has got all the details. In comparison to applying for a Schengen visa, UK visa is way more uncomplicated. It’s a simple task, to be precise. You only need to remember some information crucial to get all things done on time. Along with filing the application online, you also need to go for a face to face interview. And, also have some required documents in place. Applying for a visa is about a lot of documents, and the right ones. Being meticulous would help you go ahead seamlessly in this process.

Know In-Depth: How to get your Schengen visa from India?

Requirement for applying for UK tourist visa from India:

Best, if you can make a list and follow that. Things would be way easier and faster. So, here are those requirements you need. You can also fill up the application form online.

• Fill up the application form three months prior to your date of travel. Make sure that you do not confirm your travel bookings unless your visa has been issued.
• In case there is any change of schedule from your end, like if you wish to change the appointment date or time, you need to resubmit the application. It is best if you think over and give a confirmed date at the first chance.
• Documents which are absolutely essential for your UK tourist visa from India are a valid passport with two blank pages, visa fees receipt, and appointment confirmation.
• You also need to submit two photographs (size: 45mm X 35mm). The photo specifications differ for every country. So, make sure you follow the guidelines mentioned while getting your photo clicked.
• A signed and dated copy of your online application form needs to be carried on the date of your interview. Carry all the necessary documents which you had mentioned in your online application form.
• If you have applied for settlement visa, carry a signed and dated self-assessment form.
• Best, if you can apply through a priority visa service. That way, your form would be reviewed faster and also the process would be quick.
• Carry the official sponsorship documents if you have applied under the same.
• Carry all original photocopies of your identity, education and address proof.

Read: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

Research your visa type:

Before you apply for your KK tourist visa from India, research the type of visa you would like to apply for. The UK visas and Information website is the perfect place to get all your doubts cleared and questions answered. Check what all documents you would need in order to complete this. Also, each visa type requires different documentation. Carefully check your visa type and then apply.

Learn: A Guide to Business Visa – B1 Visa, Schengen Business visa & More

UK Tourist visa from India information:

It takes around 15 working days in general for your UK visa to be approved. But, that’s just applicable for non-settlement visa which is UK visitor visa from India. If you have denied or overstayed your visa in the UK or other Schengen countries, it might take longer than 15 days.

Do you wish to stay for a longer period of time in the UK?

The charming beauty of UK appeals to everyone. It has never been that one goes to the UK just once and never want to go back. So, if you are one of them and wish to overstay, then you need to get in touch with the British High Commission. You can stay in the UK up to six months if you are granted permission for the same. And, that too each time! Visas like those are valid up to 1,2,5 or even 10 years.

UK visa cost India

UK visitor visa from India would cost you around 83 pounds while the long-term ones would be around 737 pounds.

There’s a beautiful Norwegian proverb which says, “That which is loved is always beautiful.” No wonder that suits pretty well for this Scandinavian country which is full of life and exuberance. Norway attracts millions of tourists every year, some of them are first-time visitors and quite a few are regular visitors who found their inner self here. Now there are several school of thoughts behind getting a visa of Norway for an Indian. Many tourists applied for it and got in the first attempt, and many got rejected even twice. Through this blog post we aim to unravel certain such theories that were formulated out of people’s experiences of applying for a Norway’s Schengen visa. 

Did you know: Norway ranked First on the World Happiness Report 2017 and also holds the same position in the OECD Better Life Index.

Read: How to get your Schengen visa from India?

What is Schengen?

Let’s settle the dust around it first, Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries. They have abolished all passports and other border controls at their mutual borders to allow free movement of people into countries. They follow a common visa policy and a single jurisdiction for international travel. In whichever country you go in this Schengen region, you are allowed to stay for a maximum of 90 days, if you’re on a short term visa. It allows the tourist to enter the Schengen area from any zone (Country) and leave from any of the 26 Schengen countries. You can visit any Schengen country once you get the visa of Norway or any other Schengen country for that matter.

Now, let’s start off by taking you through the procedure of visa application, its fees, necessary documents etc.

Depending on the duration of your visit and the purpose, there are two types of Visa for Norway. One is a short-term visa that is for a stay of a maximum of 90 days or less, this is when you are visiting the country to meet your relatives, travel with your friends and family or on a honeymoon.

The other visa is long-stay visa which is for a longer duration for people who wants to study or set up a business in Norway.

Suggested Read: Guide To Switzerland Visa For Indians

Indian citizens necessarily need to apply for a visitor’s visa for Norway/Schengen Countries. However, Indian diplomatic passport holders do not need a visa to visit Norway in an official visit. 

The visa application process can take a maximum of 21 working days in the peak season. 

Trivia: The year 2017 saw the record increase of 18.5% increase from the year-ago in the visa applications from India to Norway. This increased number stood at 17772 visa applications.

Tip: Apply for a visitor’s visa well in advance to avoid the last-minute hassle. At least 15-20 days in advance to avoid the last-minute hassle. You can apply 3 months before from the date of travelling, to be on the safer side.

Recommendation: Don’t book your flight tickets and do hotel bookings until you have your visa in your hand.

Next up is, if you want to apply for a visa from India, you should be a citizen of India, Nepal or Bhutan. If you don’t belong to any of these three countries, then you will have to provide a justification of applying for a visa from India.

If you’re visiting Norway with your family or your friends, then the embassy has initiated a provision to apply together as a group (even if two people are travelling). This will help in saving time for both the parties, you and the authorities. For this, you need to register as a group in the visa application portal of Norway. The pre-requisites for applying as a group are as follows:  

1. The applicants applying together must share the same itinerary.
2. They should submit their application at the same VFS Center (Visa Facilitation Services).
3. A minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 16 people can register as a group on the portal.

All the people travelling to Norway (after November 2015) for the first time are required to provide their fingerprint and photograph at the VFS centre while going for documentation. The entire group has to go together on the same day to the same VFS centre for this purpose of documentation and fingerprint scanning.

Read: Guide To Visa Photo Size Requirements

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You can book your group’s appointment by contacting the VFS centre on the coordinates given here: info.norwayin@vfshelpline.com or +91 22 67866021.

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You can avail the services of a travel agency accredited by Royal Norwegian Embassy, New Delhi. These agencies will help you in the application process and reduce the chances of errors in the application. Some of these accredited travel agencies are Thomas Cook India, Akbar Travels, Cox & Kings, Club 7 Holidays, Bombay Travels etc.

Now comes the checklist of the documents which are very necessary in this entire process of visa application. Failure to provide any of these documents during the process will lead to rejection of your visa application. Here goes the list of documents for the tourist visa.

Norway Visa Requirements

1. Original passport which is currently being used which has been issued within previous 10 years, has at least 2 empty pages, and valid for at least 3 months at the date of applying. All the previous passports (if any) are also required.
2. The passport size photograph of the applicant with a white background which must not be older than 6 months.
3. The signed cover letter received over email from the online application portal Norway.
4. Take a print and answer all the questions present in the questionnaire for C-Visa (Short-Term visa) and submit it with the visa application.
5. Confirmed booking with travel itinerary of the round trip with a valid travel and health insurance for the stay in the Schengen area.  
6. Certificate from the travel agency confirming the booking and itinerary of the trip along with confirmation of the payment to the travel agent of the tour package.
7. Documents of employment, leave permission, copy of bank statement of the last 6 months. NOC from the employer and ITR form also needs to be carried.
8. Proof of civil status is also required which contains marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, death certificate of spouse, ration card etc.
9. If a person less than 18 years is travelling alone, then a copy of consent letter from both parents. Copy of this letter from the other parent, if one of the parent is accompanying the person on the trip.
10. If you’re travelling as a group and have applied as a group of 2 or more people, then don’t forget to get a front letter from the travel agency. It has all the details of the trip (number of days of stay, travel route, countries etc.) Also, confirmed booking from the hotel, including the name and date of birth of the travellers.
11. If you’re visiting on a business trip or for a business purpose, then the invitation letter from the Norwegian company with its address and date of visit is needed. Along with that, proof of previous trade relations between the two companies (if applicable). Business bank statement of the past 6 months also should be provided here. 
12. If you’re visiting the country for medical treatment, then a local medical report with a medical attestation from the doctor in Norway having the date of appointment and the medical situation.

Read: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

All these documents (whatever applicable) must be submitted in original and certified copies. The original documents will be verified and returned after diligence and the copies will be retained by the authority. The documents must be in English or Norwegian language and no other language is accepted. If it is not, then the documents must be translated by an authorized translator to either English or Norwegian.

Take print out of all the documents, the checklist and tick off the documents which you have submitted. Attach that document checklist with your application and deliver the application.

Next on Norway visa for Indians, register on the application portal, and for that you need to create an account on the portal if you are registering for the first time. The confirmation mail will come on your registered email id with a cover letter attached with it which confirms your application form and the fees. You need to print this cover letter and submit it together with the above-mentioned documents.

Also read: What is a Sponsorship Letter for Visa?

Norway visa fees

Now comes one of the most important part, which is the application fees. The visa fee for adults is 60 Euros (1 Euro = ₹79.02 is the prevailing exchange rate) and for children falling in the bracket of 6-12 years, it is 35 Euros. Children under 6 years of age are exempted from the visa fees. The following are also exempted from the visa fee: Indian researchers travelling for research related work, holders of diplomatic passport, up to 25 years old representative of a non-profit organization etc. There is also a service fees of 20 Euros to VFS which is an external service provider.

Tip: The applicant must sign the cover letter before submitting it. If there is any error in the form, it can be edited by the embassy. You don’t have to submit the application again.

The visa application processing time is between 15-20 days, depending on the season and number of applications. In some special cases where the applications are sent to the Directorate of Immigration (UDI), it might take up to 30 days for processing. UDI also can take a maximum of 60 days in taking the decision. Also, if you’re based in Delhi, due to courier services, it might take 2 additional days after 15 days and if you’re from any other city, it might take 4-6 additional days. Thus, it is advisable to apply for visa well in advance at least 4 weeks prior to date of travel. You can check the status of your application and track it online on the VFS portal.

Must read: Visa Interview – Questions, Answers, Tips

Now comes the D-Day where the result of your application is declared by the Embassy or VFS. For that, the applicant should give his/her personal contact number and email address in the application. The result can be picked from the VFS Application Centre Office where the application was submitted. It can also be ordered via a courier service at your doorstep by paying additional fees. Check the visa sticker at your passport and the duration of stay granted by the authority. If the application is rejected, you will receive a written explanation citing reasons for rejection of your application.

On arrival into the Schengen area, you need to show your passport with visa sticker, proof of sufficient funds for your stay (cash or credit card), documents showing purpose of your visit, hotel booking confirmation, confirmed return ticket etc.

For your reference, Norway embassy which is the Royal Norwegian Embassy is in the national capital Delhi. The complete address is 50-C, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi, Delhi 110021. This embassy in New Delhi is responsible for the Norwegian Honorary Consulates in Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

This is all we had in this edition of Norway visa for Indians. We tried our best to make you aware about all the nitty gritty of applying for a Norway tourist visa for an Indian and also if it’s an official trip. We hope you got a fair bit of idea as to how to go about applying for a Norway tourist visa and what are points to be taken care of while submitting your application.

Further Read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

Singapore is a harmonious and culturally rich nation that celebrates their heritage just like how we Indians do. Acquiring Singapore Visa for Indians is as easy as mixing sugar to tea as Singapore visa requirement procedure is simple, hassle-free and convenient. According to TOI, as per 14th April 2018, Singapore saw approximately 600,000 Indian tourists touch base on their beautiful island from January- May 2018. It was also revealed that Singapore visa for Indians saw a million count-up in their numbers from 2017 figures.

Availing Singapore visa for Indians is electronic and procedures are quite relaxed and welcoming. Indians love to visit Singapore for its festivity, colours, food, shopping and its connectivity with other countries. By connectivity, Singapore is referred to as an in-transit hub. Travelling to Japan, Vietnam, Mauritius, Fiji, Taiwan, Uzbekistan and of course, Malaysia gets easy. Indians mainly visit Singapore for leisure, business, visiting relatives, medical treatment and study. But Singapore is equally attractive for antiquary fascinators, travel bloggers, epicure for food, documentary photographer as well.

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Did you know, Singapore is smaller than the size of our national capital, Delhi?

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Singapore understands that every traveller is different. Singapore has compartmentalized its visa options. Application procedures of applying; Singapore visa for Indians is as easy as doing online shopping provided all the precursor formalities are done.

Read: Guide To Visa Photo Size Requirements

Essential Documents mandated for Singapore Visa Requirements

Singapore visa requirements vary a little as per the purpose of the visit of the traveller. Wherefore, Singapore visa cost also varies. Hence, accustomed at commonality Singapore visa requirement fiats a passport with more than 6 months left for expiry, a duly signed application form, six months bank statement, confirmed return ticket booked, copy of first and last page of the passport, other address proof, etc. Singapore visa for Indians also needs a little more understanding that if the passport is issued from another State of India other than the residing one, address proof of the current residence, as well as the address proof of the place (State), is also required.

Additionally, Singapore visa requirements for tourists will require adding their hotel bookings in the application. If an Indian is visiting Singapore on a visit, they are to provide the details of the resident in Singapore where they shall be staying. Indians planning to visit Singapore for business requires sharing of the common documents mentioned above as well as an invitation letter from the organization of purpose.

Singapore Visa for Indians requires a minimum of INR 70, 000 to 1 lac rupees as bank saving.

Suggested Read: Visa Interview – Questions, Answers, Tips

Singapore Visa on Arrival:

The high commission of Singapore disfavours visa on arrival. Singapore visa on arrival is not an acceptable norm. The Indian citizen is mandated to apply for E-Visa through an authorized Indian government registered travel agent. Alternatively, ICA web link is the go-to where the visa seeker can step by step to complete all the Singapore visa requirements if they are doing it by themselves. The application must be sent 30 days before departure. Singapore visa cost is USD 30 irrespective of the outcome of the visa application. 

Singapore Tourist Visa for Indians:

Indians love sweets and sweets attract bees. Singapore is the sweet and Indian are bees who come in their hives (groups), or kindred to visit Singapore. Singapore Tourism Visa for Indians is the best-suited option for families who would are seeking a vacation, or spend time with their family who lives in Singapore. Singapore tourist visa for Indians can also be taken by parents who want to visit their children if they are studying there. Singapore tourist visa for Indians can be taken by people who would like to avail world-class best medical services that Singapore has a strong niche.

Singapore is also visited by corporate as Singapore connects various other nearby countries as a network hub. Singapore visit visa is given for 30 days and the travel must be initiated within 2 years. The visa can be extended on valid grounds through an application given to any travel agency in Singapore. Moreover, a local resident who is on permanent residency or a Singaporean can in lieu of executing the visa extension formalities. Singapore Tourism Visa for Indians is mostly extended for corporate visitors, magnates, distributor or medical patients. The maximum extension applicable is 90 days. The breakup of the documents can be retraced here.

Singapore Transit Visa:

 Singapore transit visa just like Singapore visa on arrival needs one to procure the transit visa prior to departure from the home city. The transit visa is nonchargeable if there is an onward journey ticket attached to the application submitted. In unavoidable circumstances, the Indian traveller can avail Singapore transit visa on arrival provided the travel onwards is commencing within 96 hours and the transit passenger does have the onward boarding pass. Indians travelling to Japan, Vietnam, Mauritius, Fiji, Taiwan, and Uzbekistan and of course, Malaysia can easily get Singapore transit visas.

Suggested Read: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

Singapore Business Visa:

 With regards to work, if an Indian wants to do business, Singapore business Visa is worth buying diamonds because there are lots of hidden costs. 14A form is to be filled on ICA . It takes six weeks for the form to be processed. To begin with, any Indian with a profession degree working from manager to executive level can apply for Singapore business visa provided they have a secured job offered in Singapore with a salary not less than 3,600 Singaporean dollars. Singapore business visa is given for 90 days. The Indian has to be above 18 to apply for the employment pass (EP) and of course, have a valid passport. The traveler can check the status of a Singapore business visa online after 3 weeks of an application submitted. Employment pass is a mandatory document to be carried at all times when in Singapore. 

There are some very crucial to be understood list.

1. The work pass i.e. the employment pass entails a work domain that is restricted.
2. No other business can be done other than the mentioned one in the E.P.
3. Marriage with a Singaporean irrespective of residing in or outside Singapore needs approval from the ministry of manpower. This rule is also applicable for marring a permanent Singaporean resident irrespective of their nationality.
4. The residing place cannot be changed without approval. The place of residence must be known or given by the employer in Singapore.
5. Carry the original work permit i.e. E.P at all times

Ministry of Manpower of Singapore essentially requires submitting details like the salary of the applicant, age, organizations name where they are working, the reputation of the company, capital of the organization and of course applicant must provide proof of citizenship

Read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

Singapore Work Visa:

 S-Pass is issued for semi-skilled workers engaging in blue-collar jobs with a salary of SGD 2,200/-. S pass comes under the umbrella of short term employment pass. Singapore’s work visa is provided by an organization based out of Singapore while Singapore’s business visa can be procured by self as well. Singapore’s work Visa requires a work permit. Though employment pass issued on a Singapore business visa and work pass for Singapore visa seems the same, it is not the same. There is a difference in salary scale, duration, and educational background.  

Singapore Student Visa:

Singapore Student Visa is at SGD 30 for Indian students. Filling form 16 & V36 through ICA is mandatory. It usually takes two to three weeks for a Singapore student visa to pass. A student pass is issued with insurance of SGD 60/-. Additionally, SGD 30/- is applicable for multiple entries. For example, if a student visits back home, i.e. India; he/she is to pay a re-entry fee of SGD 30/ each time. Students on visit visa are permitted to work 16 hours a week and full time during vacations. But for the first six months, students are not allowed to work. Post the completion of the studies the students are permitted to come on employment pass eligibility certificate ( EPEC) that permits them to stay for a year more in order to search for a job. EPEC cost around SGD 70/-. Taking EPEC is based on individual choice.

Also Read: How to apply for Visa? In focus – Schengen visa, H1B visa

The documents needed for a Singapore student visa are very crucial like all other visas.

1. Passport
2. One passport size photo less than 6 months old
3. Student visa application form
4. Mark sheets from 10th standard onwards
5. IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, GRE are a bonus
6. Two academic references
7. Two Employment references if applicable
8. Work experience certificate if any
9. Bank loan documents if any
10. Fixed Deposits if any
11. Original bank statement of one month
12. An affidavit of support is also to be given by the sponsor at Singapore

Singapore Visa Cost

1. Singapore Tourist Visa for Indians: SGD 30/-
2. Singapore Transit Visa: Free up to 96 hours
3. Singapore Business Visa: Ranges from SGD 30 to 70/-
4. Singapore Work Visa: Ranges from SGD 30 to 70/-
5. Singapore Student visa: SGD 30/-

Read: What is a Sponsorship Letter for Visa?

Singapore Short Term Visa Pass 

SSTVP is usually given in the semi-skilled working-class people who come into Singapore for a very short project and by default have to exit the country post project completion. The minimum salary offered to them is SGD 2,200. SSTVP is also given to a baby who is born for 42 days only. The application has to be submitted to ICA with immediate effect.

Singapore Long Term Visa Pass 

Indians on a work visa who would want to bring their families in Singapore can apply for Singapore Long Term Visa Pass for their dependents provided the Indian on Singapore work visa earns more than SGD 5,000/- per month. The dependents are spouse, children, and step-children under 21 years. Singapore work visa is for 2 years only and needs to be renewed after two years. For bringing elderly parents in Singapore the minimum salary to be shown is SGD 12,000/ and above. This SLTVP can also be called a dependent pass. The dependent children are allowed to study in that interim. Also, if any of the dependents intends to work they have to obtain a letter of consent (LOC).

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Did you know that Singapore is called ‘the loins city’ and is only 721.5 km?

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 Singapore is colourful, vibrant, welcoming and has so much to see and do. Be it the museums that forth-up wisdom and history. The parks, be it botanic or amusement. The shopping carts filled with clothes or confectionaries. Singapore is a must country to visit. It’s like a gold coin; tiny, shiny and expensive. But certain things are worth it. Trip to Singapore is worth it.

Read: Self Introduction letter for Visa: All you need to know

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I apply for a Singapore visa online?

To avail Singapore visa for Indians, the application form needs to be filled on ICA electronically. One needs to apply at least 30 days before the travel commences.

2. What is the full form of ICA?

Immigration and Check Point Authority

3. Is Singapore visa on arrival for Indian citizens?

At this hour, Singapore Visa on Arrival is not available except for travellers in transit. Singapore visa for Indians, have to be availed via E-form filling processes or getting the process executed from a local authorized agency. Singapore Visa Cost varies depending on the visa applied.

4. What is the visa fee for Singapore from India?

The current applicable Singapore Visa cost is Singaporean dollars 30. If visa availed from an agency, service charges will be applicable.

5. What is the validity of the Singapore tourist visa for Indians?

The visa validity is for 2 years with a maximum stay period for 30 days.

6. What can be done to extend the maximum stay period?

The 30 days validity as per Singapore visa requirements can be extended up to 90 days. This can be availed through applying to an agency. Alternatively, local Singaporean can file the application for the Indian on a Singapore tourist visa if the visitor is a known associate.

7. What can be done if an Indian wants to stay for more than 90 days?

The Indian needs to exit Singapore and reapply. The re-entry needs at least 9 weeks to pass.

A beautiful Central European country, Switzerland has been a hub of tourism for several years. Home to tranquil lakes, pretty villages, and the mighty peaks of the Alps, this mountainous country offers some of the most breathtaking views. Also famed for its ski resorts, hiking trails, Swiss watches, and delectable chocolates, Switzerland is absolutely magnetic with its aura. To witness this spectacle of a place, a very crucial requirement is the Switzerland visa. It is mandatory to have Switzerland visa for Indians. As one of the 26 European countries that form the Schengen Area, a Switzerland Schengen visa is required to visit Switzerland.

Read: Guide To Visa Photo Size Requirements

A guide to obtaining a Switzerland visa for Indians, with a key focus on the Switzerland tourist visa. 

VFS Global

VFS Global is a very important Switzerland Visa Application Centre. It provides all the details necessary for the procedure of application for all Switzerland visas, including the Switzerland tourist visa. For all those who wish to travel to Switzerland with a smooth visa application process, VFS Global is your go-to place. Once your application is submitted at the Switzerland Visa Application Centre, VFS, it will be assessed by the Swiss Embassy, India located in New Delhi. The applications for Switzerland Schengen visa submitted at any of the VFS Global centres except New Delhi and Mumbai will be delivered to the Swiss Embassy, India only on the third working day for processing.

The Schengen visa can be used according to the number of entries as indicated on the visa sticker: “1”, “2”, or “MULT”. The holder of “MULT” which is a multiple entry visa can enter the Schengen area an unlimited number of times during the period of visa validity and with respect to the rules of the stay duration. 

Types of Visas Available

The two main types of visas available are –

1. Short stay visa 
2. Long stay visa

Also Read: France Visa From India: Explained

Short stay visas entitle Indian citizens to stay in Switzerland for an uninterrupted period or a total of successive stay periods that do not exceed 90 days in every six months since the date of your first entry into the country. For transit visas, the duration is established according to the stay period necessary for the transit. After the scrutinization of your visa application by the Embassy, the application will be responded to with any of the following responses – 

• Granting of the applied visa 
• Request for further documentation 
• Request to appear for a personal interview 
• Rejection of the visa application 

In New Delhi, the short-stay visas are processed at the following address – 

New Delhi 

Schengen JVAC, Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level

Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi- 110001 

• Contact – +91 22 61766900
• Timings – Between 9.00-16.30 hours,
• Days available – Monday-Friday (Except Holidays)

Applications for short stay Switzerland visa for Indians cannot be submitted more than 90 days in advance before the decided date of travel. However, it is important to note that they must be submitted at least 15 days prior to the date of travel. VFS Global is responsible for the reception and release of passports for short stay visas applications in India.

Know In-Depth: Visa Interview – Questions, Answers, Tips

Applicants can also directly apply at the Swiss Embassy, India for short stay visas only with a prior appointment. To obtain an appointment, you must write an email directly to the Embassy in New Delhi. Telephone requests for appointments are not entertained. Requests via email must be sent at least one month prior to the date of travel. 

Also, first-time travellers to Schengen countries need to present themselves at the Swiss Embassy, India for an interview, without any exception, according to the allotted date and time provided by VFS Global. Once the interview is given at the Embassy, you will need to wait a minimum of 5 days for further processing of your application and conveyance of the final decision.      

Categories of short-stay visas 

• Business visa – Applicable if you are travelling to Switzerland for business purposes 
• Visitor visa – Applicable if you are travelling to Switzerland to visit family or friends
• Student visa – Applicable for studying purposes 
• Tourist visa – Applicable for tourism purposes 

The Switzerland tourist visa for Indian citizens is the most commonly used Switzerland visa for tourism activities for less than 90 days. 

Long stay visas are given for a stay duration of more than 90 days. 

Categories of long-stay visas – 

• Family reunification visa – Applicable if you wish to stay with family members for more than 90 days
• Student visa – Applicable if you plan on studying in Switzerland for longer than 90 days 
• Work visa – Applicable for work purposes if your stay duration is longer than 90 days

Also Read: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

Application Procedure

Here is the step-by-step application procedure to apply for a Switzerland visa for Indians – 

Step 1 – Before filling out the applications and attaching the required documents, some information needs to be noted. The applications will be assessed by the Embassy of Switzerland in New Delhi only. Note that the applications sent via courier/post cannot be received and processed by the Switzerland Visa Application Centre in New Delhi. The applications and the required documents must be submitted in person or through an authorized representative or a travel agent.

Step 2 – Schedule an appointment at the Switzerland Visa Application Centre to submit the applications for a short stay, business, or family visits.

All applicants must book an appointment online in order to submit their visa applications at the Joint Schengen Visa Application Centre. When you reach the Centre on the appointment date, you must take a print out of your visa application and the required documents. Ensure that you arrive at the Centre 15 minutes before the scheduled appointment time. If you arrive earlier, you will not be allowed to enter the Centre. If you arrive later than your scheduled appointment time, you will have to re-book a future appointment date and time, or you also have the option of availing the walk-in service that will cost you an additional amount of INR 2600.

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Note: If you do not complete your appointment process within 5 working days of your registration with the Centre, your record will be automatically deleted by their system.

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If you are travelling as a family or a group of friends, ensure that you book individual appointments for all members, including minors.

 You can book for an appointment with VFS here

Your appointment needs to be scheduled with the following details – 

• Name 
• Passport Number 
• Contact number 

Rescheduling appointments – You will be permitted to reschedule your appointment twice and up to 2 working days before the scheduled date. Any further changes in dates will be viewed as a fresh appointment and a new service charge will have to be paid. 

Cancelling appointments – In situations of appointment cancellation, the service charges will not be refunded. Cancellation can be done only 2 working days before the scheduled date.

Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

Step 3 – Choose the visa type and category according to your travel requirement. Check the corresponding visa application form. 

Step 4 – When you arrive at the Switzerland Visa Application Centre on the appointed date, you will have to take a token at the entrance. Then, you will have to be seated in the waiting area. Next, you will be called to the submission counter where your application and the attached documents will be scrutinized. Your photographs and Indian passport will be checked for validity. Lastly, as an acknowledgement, you will then be given a receipt for the fees and service charge paid.

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Note: Carry the originals and photocopies of all the required documents.

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The approximate time needed for the Swiss Embassy to process the application is between 7 to 10 working days. However, according to the Schengen codex, the processing time can take up to 15 working days. 

If a representative or travel agent will be collecting your passport and documents, ensure that he or she carries an original ICR, a photo ID of himself/herself, your passport’s photocopy, the documents required, and an authority letter from you.  

Switzerland Visa Cost for Tourists

The Switzerland visa cost is reasonable at the following rates – 

• Adults – EUR 60; INR 4500 
• Children (6 – 12 years of age) – EUR 35; INR 2700 

VFS Global Service Charges – INR 1380, inclusive of taxes + INR 150 for convenience fees in the provision of multiple payment modes 

Please note:

• Children below the age of 6 years are exempted from the Switzerland visa cost 
• Children above the age of 12 as considered as adults 
• Visa fee and service charges are to be paid via cash, card (Visa, Master Card, Rupay, Amex), or online payment modes.

Must Read: What is a Sponsorship Letter for Visa?

Documents Checklist

Here is the document checklist to apply for the Switzerland tourist visa for Indian citizens – 

• Valid national passport 
• 2 passport size pictures not older than 6 months, with a white background 
• Completed visa application form (https://www.sem.admin.ch/content/dam/data/sem/einreise/visumantragsformulare/visumantrag-schen-en-de.pdf)
• Previous passports, if any 
• Personal covering letter with travel plan 
• Introduction letter 
• Travel insurance 
• Flight reservation 
• Proof of accommodation in Switzerland 
• Proof of financial status 

The above-mentioned documents must be submitted with the completed visa application form. The Swiss Embassy has the right to ask for additional documents and/or a personal interview. 

Special Instructions

• Applications need to be submitted three months before the date of departure 
• Since May 1st, 2020, only the passports issued within the previous ten years will be accepted for visa applications
• At least two blank pages must be present in your passport for visa application 
• Your passport needs to be valid for at least three months longer than your intended stay duration in Switzerland
• Handwritten or non-machine readable Indian passports issues later than May 1st, 2010 will not be accepted 
• Any manual entries made in the Indian passports after April 1st, 2010 to the biographical data of the passport holder will not be accepted 
• For those applicants that have a specific handwritten entry – “previously known as”, one of the following documents need to be provided – 

1. Original previous passport with the old name 
2. A copy of the previous passport containing the old name 
3. A copy of the name change advertisement in the local daily newspaper

Also read: How to get your Schengen visa from India?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get a Switzerland visa from India?

A: To obtain a Switzerland visa from India, visit the official website of the Switzerland Visa Application Centre and follow the instructions for the application process- https://www.vfsglobal.ch/switzerland/india/index.html 

2. How much is Switzerland visa fee?

A: The Switzerland visa fee is 60 euros (INR 4500) for adults and 35 euros (INR 2700) for children between the ages of 6 and 12. 

3. How long does it take to get Switzerland visa from India?

A: The processing time is about 2 weeks for a short stay visa. However, any delays in the processing of visa applications cannot be questioned. 

Are you planning for a vacation in USA? Are you wondering how to process your tourist visa for USA from India? The article will substantiate you with all the information and pre-requisites for tourist visa processing.

What can you do with a tourist visa for USA?

The Tourist visa for USA from India permits you to perform the following activities:

1. A holiday for visiting tourist destinations in the USA 
2. Visiting relatives or family members and even friends
3. Any treatment for medical ailments
4. Engage as a participant in any events related to sports, music or any kind of social gatherings and even voluntary contests
5. Attend any course related to any recreations which do not demand any credit for achieving the relevant credentials

Popular Read: 10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

Where can you apply for a tourist visa for USA from India?

The tourist visa for the USA mandates it to be applied at the designated US consulates and embassy in India. In India, the US embassy is located in Delhi and the other consulates are located in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

The details of each of them along with their addresses, directions and phone numbers are available on the US embassy website.

What are the documents required for applying for a tourist visa for USA from India?

Before applying for an appointment with the US embassy or the US consulates, it is important to fill up the online DS-160 visa application form. The documents required for US tourist visa and to complete the application form are mentioned below:

1. Passport with validity for the next six months from the date of application of the visa
2. Details of previous visits to the USA (maximum five) and any other international travels undergone during the last five years. You must have the dates, countries, and purpose of the visit recorded in the application form
3. Educational qualifications with details of the pass out years and the attained degrees
4. Information about the current and previous work experiences and details
5. Itinerary for the travel, if available. It is better to have the address, phone numbers, duration of the stay and return tickets available for a smooth hassle-free application

Know in-depth: Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

What are the photograph specifications for applying a tourist visa for USA from India?

The photograph for the DS-160 application must meet the specified criteria as mentioned by the US Department of State. The Department has strict guidelines on the specifications needed for US tourist visa requirements, as mentioned below:

1. The photograph should not be more than six months older from the date of US tourist visa application from India
2. The applicant must not be wearing any glasses which is a strict mandate for US tourist visa requirements starting November 1, 2016
3. The face must be towards the camera with no tilting of the head and with normal expression. There must be no shadow obstructing the visibility of the face
4. The eyes of the application must not be covered or closed
5. There must not be any headgear or hat covering the head or the hair unless mandated for any religious needs 
6. The photograph must be coloured in an off-white or simple white background
7. The size of the photograph should be 51 X 51 millimetres, with the head centred. The size of the head must be between 25 and 35 millimetre

Also Read: How to apply for Visa? In focus – Schengen visa, H1B visa

The photographs must not be a scanned image from any other personal or official documents of the applicant. The photos must not be clicked from a mobile phone and must not be full length. The detailed photography guidelines for US tourist visa applications from India are mentioned here.

What are the steps to complete DS-160 online application form for the tourist visa for USA from India?

The application needs to be vigilant while filling up the DS-160 application form required for US visa documents. He/she should be attentive to the documents required for a US tourist visa. The detailed guidelines on the procedures for filling up the DS-160 form are mentioned here.

TheFind the visa application form here .

The steps for completing and submitting the electronic form are mentioned as follows:

Step 1: Select a location from where you are applying the tourist visa for USA from India. Enter the captcha code and then proceed to the next page

The available options for the locations are

• Delhi
• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Kolkata
• Mumbai

Step 2: Creation of the Application id and selecting the security question and answer

The application id is generated automatically. You need to select a security question and answer for retrieving the application once saved in the system. Click on Continue when done.

Step 3: Fill up personal, travel, work, family and educational information for US visa documents 

1 .Personal Information – It has two parts Personal 1 and Personal 2. 

1. • In Personal 1, enter given the name, surname, marital status, date, place, city, state, and country of birth, sex on this page. The information entered must match the details mentioned in your passport.
   • In Personal 2, select the country of nationality i.e. India. There are two checkboxes to mention Yes or No. One is to understand you hold any other nationality other than India. The other is to understand whether you hold permanent residentship of any other country other than India. There is three other information for National Identification Number, US Social Security Number, and US Taxpayer Id Number. If you do not have any of these, click on the checkbox “Does not apply”.

Read: Self Introduction letter for Visa: All you need to know

2. Address and Phone – Enter your Home and mailing address and phone numbers.

1. • In the Home address section, provide your street details, city, state, postal code, and country in India
   • If your home address and mailing address are different then enter the mailing address in India
   • Provide your personal as well as work phone numbers in case the consulate wants to connect with the applicant.

3. Passport – Enter all the correct details from your passport carefully

1. • Select “Regular” from the Passport/Travel document type dropdown list. Provide your passport number against the field Passport/ Travel Document Number field. Click the checkbox “Does not apply” beside the field Passport Book Number
   • Select “India” from the Country/Authority that issued passport/travel document dropdown list
   • Provide the city and state from where the passport has been issued and mention the country as “India”
   • Mention the issuance and expiration dates of the passport
   • Select Yes or No for the question “Have you ever lost a passport or had one stolen?”

4. Travel – Enter details regarding your travel plans

1. • Select “TEMP. BUSINESS PLEASURE VISITOR” from the dropdown list of Purpose of Trip to the U.S.
   • Select “BUSINESS & TOURISM (TEMPORARY VISITOR) (B1/B2)” from the dropdown list of Specify
   • Provide the intended date of arrival in the U.S., intended length of stay in the U.S. and address of stay in the U.S., if available
   • If you are paying for your trip then select “SELF” from the dropdown list of Person/Entity paying for your trip. If someone else is paying then you need to select “OTHER PERSON”.

5. Travel Companions – If anyone is travelling with you, then provide the surname, given name and relationship with the person in this section.

6. Previous U.S. Travel

1. • If you ever been to the U.S. then you need to enter the details of the last five visits or less. Provide the date of arrival, length of stay and U.S. driver’s license number in case you have or remember
   • If you have ever before issued a U.S. Visa then you need to enter the details. Provide the issuance date of the visa and visa number
   • There are several checkboxes in this section which you need to answer certain questions regarding us visa documents

7. US Contact – You need to provide the details of the person you are visiting and the relationship with the person. In case you are travelling through a travel agent then ensure you have the relevant information from them. For situations where you are travelling on your own then you may enter the Hotel details or click on “Do Not Know”.

8. Family 

1. • In this section, you need to enter the name, surname, and date of birth of your mother and father. You also need to mention whether your parents are in the U.S. or not
   • There are two more checkboxes for you to mention whether you have any other relatives in the U.S.
   • If you are married then you need to enter the details of your spouse too

9. Work/Education/Training 

1. • If you are working, then you need to enter the details of your current employer as well as previous five or fewer employers, if any
   • If you are a student then you need to enter your education details. You can add all your educational qualifications in this section
   • There are some additional information you need to provide related to your international travel to countries other than the U.S. You need to enter the list of all the countries visited in the last five years
   • There are few more checkboxes to answer related to involvement in the military or any other groups

10. Security and Background – This section is divided into five parts. The applicant needs to answer several questions as Yes or No for the U.S. Consulate to collect the background information of the person.

Step 4: Upload your photo 

Click on the “Upload your photo” button to upload your photo mandatory for US tourist visa requirements

Step 5: Review the information provided in the DS-160 application form for US visa documents

You can check and rectify every section for the form for any errors and correct them as needed.

Step 6: Sign the form and submit the application for US tourist visa application from India 

You need to enter your passport number and the captcha code in this form. Electronically sign and submit the application.

Step 7: A confirmation page is displayed

The confirmation page provides options to print the confirmation, print the application or email the confirmation. It contains a bar code that is unique for each application. The confirmation page must be printed and submitted during the appointment. This ends the DS-160 application fill up activity.

How and where can I pay the American tourist visa fee?

The current non-petition based tourist visa fee for the USA from India is $160. The American tourist visa fee needs to be submitted online through either NEFT or payment via Bank. The steps to be followed for paying the fees for US visa documents are highlighted below:

1. Click on the website
2. Next, Click on Login from the menu
3. Click on New User, if not registered
4. The country will be selected as India. Enter your email id, First Name, Last Name, Password. 
5. After the user id is created in the website, click on Schedule Appointment section
6. The different payment options will be displayed on the payment confirmation section. The options available are NEFT, payments at AXIS Bank, Citibank or DRUK bank and payment through mobile phone
7. After the payment, the receipt generation may take 1 or 2 business days. The appointment can be scheduled once the receipt is created in the system.

How to schedule an appointment for a US tourist visa application in India?

Applicants aged between 14 – 79 years need to appear for an interview at the US embassy or the consulate. Two appointments need to be selected for Tourist Visa for USA from India. One is an appointment at the Visa Application Center. The other is the visa interview at the US embassy in Delhi or the consulates at Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata or Mumbai.

While scheduling the appointment, you need to provide 

• Your passport number
• The receipt number generated after the payment and 
• The bar code generated in the confirmation page

Appointment at the Visa Application Center

At the Visa Application Center, the photo and the fingerprints/biometric will be processed. The documents that are required for a US tourist visa are :

• Passport (current and old)
• The print out of the DS-160 application confirmation page
• Photograph clicked as per the specifications of the US tourist visa requirements

Visa Interview at the US Embassy or Consulate

The applicant will undergo an interview at the Delhi embassy or any of the US consulates in India. The documents that are required for a US tourist visa are :

• Passport (current and old)
• The print out of the DS-160 confirmation page
• The print out of the appointment confirmation page
• Any other documents like salary proof, educational certificates, marriage certificates, bank statements, etc.

Ensure you are calm and answer all the questions related to your intended visit to the US. Carry all the necessary documents and double-check before leaving for the interview. Applicants need to attend the interview themselves without any person accompanying them.

You now are equipped with all the necessary information required for Tourist Visa for USA from India. Wish you all the best for your vacation in the US and a safe trip to the US.