Student Visa in Switzerland: The Complete Guide by Albert School

Have you been admitted to Albert School in Geneva, or are you hoping to be?

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This guide will walk you through all the necessary steps to best prepare your visa application for studying in Switzerland.

Please note that this process takes several weeks or even months, so it’s strongly advised to start as early as possible!

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1. Admission to Albert School

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• Research and Application: If you haven’t already, visit the Albert School website to understand their programs and admission criteria. Follow their instructions to apply. We hope you’ll be accepted and join us next year!
• Acceptance Letter: Once admitted, obtain an official acceptance letter from Albert School. This document is crucial for your visa application.

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2. Types of Visa

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You will need to apply for Visa D (Long Stay): You will need this visa if your studies exceed 90 days, which is usually the case for full-time programs

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3. Preparing Documents Specific to Geneva

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1. Application Form: Fill out the national visa application form (Visa D), available on the consulate's website or from the Swiss embassy in your country.
2. Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months after your planned departure from Switzerland (UNIGE).
3. Photographs: Provide two recent passport-sized photos that meet biometric standards (GE).
4. Acceptance Letter: Include the official acceptance letter from Albert School.
5. Proof of Financial Resources:
   • Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your living and study expenses.
   • A financial support letter from a sponsor or proof of a scholarship, if applicable.
6. Proof of Accommodation:
   • Rental contract, confirmation of university housing, or a letter from a host (ELFI).
7. Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage for your stay in Switzerland. We advise you to seek those in: Groupe mutuel or GenevaSwiss Care.
8. Motivation Letter: Describe your motivation to study in Geneva and your plans after graduation.
9. Criminal Record: A criminal background check may be required depending on your country of origin (ELFI).

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4. Submitting the Application

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• Consulate or Embassy: Book an appointment with the Swiss consulate in your country to submit your application.
• Document Submission: Submit the required documents, including both originals and copies (GE).
• Visa Fees: Pay the visa processing fees, which vary depending on your country, age, and other factors.

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5. Interview

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• Consular Interview: An interview may be required. Be prepared to discuss your academic plans and your stay in Geneva (UNIGE).

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6. Application Processing

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• Processing Time: It can take between 8 to 12 weeks. It’s highly recommended to start the process well in advance.

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7. Notification and Visa Collection

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• Notification: You’ll be informed when your visa is ready.
• Collection: Go to the consulate or embassy to collect your visa once approved.

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8. Arrival in Geneva and Registration

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• Registration in Geneva: Upon arrival, you must register with the Office cantonal de la population et des migrations (OCPM) within 14 days (ELFI).
• Residence Permit: Obtain your student residence permit for the duration of your program at Albert School (GE).

It is essential to check specific requirements with the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country, as well as with Albert School, since procedures may vary slightly. Also, make sure to comply with all requirements and deadlines to avoid delays or complications.

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Good luck, and we hope to see you very soon on our Geneva campus, in the new Edmond de Rothschild headquarters tower: Spaces Étang – Place Casa-Bamba, Quartier de l'Étang 1, on the 4th floor.

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Otherwise, do not hesitate to apply to Albert School!