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Switzerland — Schengen Area Member

Switzerland is one of the 30 Schengen Area member states.

Switzerland is a full member of the Schengen Area. Whether you need ETIAS, a Schengen Visa, or nothing depends on your nationality. Once inside the Schengen Area, you can reach Switzerland without border checks.

Capital
Bern
Currency
CHF
Schengen
Yes
EU Member
false
Passport Rank
#13

Schengen Membership

Switzerland is a full member of the Schengen Area, which permits passport-free travel between 30 European countries. Once you arrive in any Schengen country, you can visit Switzerland without additional border checks. Practical Info 1 EUR ≈ 0.91 CHF The Switzerland passport ranks #13 globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 156

Capital
Bern
Currency
CHF
Population
9000000
Exchange Rate
1 EUR ≈ 0.91 CHF

Check current rates before traveling

Switzerland in the Schengen Area

  • Schengen Area
  • EU (non-Schengen)
  • Other European

Entry Requirements

  • EU/EEA citizens

    Enter freely with passport or national ID. No visa or ETIAS needed.

  • Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, and others)

    No visa needed for stays of up to 90 days. ETIAS required from Q4 2026 (€20).

  • Visa-required nationals

    Schengen Visa required (€80). Submit your application at embassy of your main destination.

Schengen Guides

Visit Switzerland

Destination travel guide

Schengen Area Guide

All 30 member states

ETIAS Guide

New travel authorization

90/180 Calculator

Track your stay

Frequently Asked Questions about Switzerland

Do I need a visa or ETIAS to visit Switzerland?
It depends on your nationality. EU/EEA citizens enter without restrictions. Citizens from 59 visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Canada, and others) will need ETIAS from Q4 2026 (€20). All other nationalities must obtain a Schengen Visa (€80).
Is Switzerland part of the Schengen Area?
Yes, Switzerland is a full member of the Schengen Area. A single visa or ETIAS is valid for all 30 Schengen countries.
How long can I stay in Switzerland?
EU citizens can stay indefinitely. Non-EU visitors can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period throughout all Schengen countries combined.
What currency does Switzerland use?
Switzerland uses CHF as its official currency. 1 EUR ≈ 0.91 CHF Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before your trip. Major cities have widespread card acceptance, but carry some cash for smaller establishments.
How strong is the Switzerland passport?
The Switzerland passport ranks #13 globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 156 countries. As a Schengen member, Switzerland's citizens can travel freely across all 30 Schengen states without any border checks.

Learn More

Schengen Area Guide

90/180 Day Calculator

Travel Insurance

EES Entry/Exit System

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