Practical Information

Immigration Procedures

EU/EFTA students may study in Switzerland without needing a visa. Non EU/EFTA students must provide evidence that they possess sufficient financial means and that they have taken out adequate accident and health insurance policies in order for a visa to be issued. The cantonal migration authorities can provide more details on this requirement.

All foreign students must apply to the police department dealing with aliens after their arrival in Switzerland to obtain a residence permit. The following documents will be required:

• a valid passport, accompanied by a visa if necessary
• confirmation that you have been accepted by a Swiss university
• a guarantee of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies (e.g. bank statement)
• statement concerning your address in Switzerland

The residence permit will only be issued if your financial means are guaranteed. There is no specific financial means threshold given, though a rough estimate is approximately 22,000 CHF per year for tuition and living expenses. In addition, you will have to renew the residence permit annually. Foreign students are allowed to work up to 15 hours a week as long as the duration of the studies is not prolonged.