Student Visa and Residence Permit for Switzerland: Non-EU and EU Students
Fee figures: catalogue of 6 October 2026.
Switzerland is outside the EU but takes part in free movement with it, so the rules split sharply between EU and EFTA citizens and everyone else. In both cases the decision belongs to the canton where you will study. This guide describes the procedure as of October 2026.
Non-EU students: the national D visa
You apply for a national visa at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country of residence. The embassy forwards the file to the migration office of the canton, which decides whether to authorise your stay. Only then is the visa issued. The whole process often takes two to three months, and universities advise applying as soon as you are admitted.
What the canton examines:
- Admission. Confirmation from the university that you are admitted to a full-time programme.
- Funds. Proof that your living costs are covered for the duration of your studies, for example a bank statement, a scholarship or a guarantee from a solvent person. Cantons publish their own reference amounts, and several work with figures of around CHF 2,000 a month. Some accept only statements from banks with a branch in Switzerland.
- Accommodation suitable for a student.
- Personal qualifications. Your school certificates, a CV, a study plan and a letter explaining why you chose this programme. Language skills for the programme are part of this check.
- Departure. A written commitment to leave Switzerland when your studies end.
Nationals of a few countries are exempt from the visa but still need the cantonal authorisation, which is requested before or right after arrival.
After arrival
Within 14 days, and before starting classes, you register at the residents' office of your commune. You then receive a residence permit for study (permit B), issued for one year and renewed annually on proof of enrolment and funds. A change of programme or university needs the canton's approval.
EU and EFTA students
No visa. You register at the commune within 14 days of arrival and apply for the residence permit there. You show a passport or identity card, proof of enrolment, a declaration or proof of sufficient means, and health insurance.
Health insurance
Health insurance is compulsory for everyone living in Switzerland, and you must arrange it within three months of arrival. Students with equivalent cover from home, such as EU students with a European Health Insurance Card or holders of certain international policies, can apply to the canton for an exemption. Without an exemption you choose a Swiss insurer; some offer student tariffs.
Working while you study
- Non-EU students may work at most 15 hours a week during the semester, and only after six months of study. Full-time work is possible during semester breaks. The employer applies for the authorisation.
- EU and EFTA students may also work up to 15 hours a week during the semester, from the start, after notifying the authorities.
What it costs
Tuition at Swiss public universities is moderate, with a typical figure of €2,579 a year in our catalogue. Living costs are what weigh on the budget. See how much it costs to study in Switzerland and student housing in Switzerland.
Where to look next
Official sources
- State Secretariat for Migration
- ch.ch: studying in Switzerland as a foreign national
- swissuniversities: information for international students
Always check current information on the official website of the university before you apply.