Due to the constantly changing nature of travel, we urge people to research their own travel requirements. This includes Passport and Visa requirements, documentation for re-entry into country of residence and any other identification needed. Please allow sufficient time in advance of the meeting for processing of all necessary documentation. 

Be sure to confirm air and hotel arrangements at least 24 hours in advance of departure. As a reminder, never leave your wallet and passport unattended while traveling, and have photocopies of all identification and credit cards in case of theft or loss.

Depending on your nationality, you need a visa to travel to Switzerland.
More information under: Nationality 

General framework

• Only short-term visa applications (up to 90 days, Schengen visa) such as tourist, visit or business can be submitted online. A visa application can be submitted at the earliest six months before entering the Schengen area.
• Depending on the Swiss representation, appointments can be made for both, Schengen and National visas.
• Scheduling an appointment is free of charge.
• Before starting the application process, please consult the website of the responsible Swiss representation to determine if there is a waiting period to obtain an appointment         

   Swiss Embassies abroad   
  

Starting in late 2026 (though originally planned mid-2025), U.S. citizens will need an ETIAS—a mandatory online travel authorization similar to the U.S. ESTA. It will:

• Cost €7, valid for 3 years, covering multiple short stays up to 90 days per 180-day period across Schengen countries like Switzerland cntraveler.com+10kiplinger.com+10etiaseu.com+10.

• Be required to board flights to Switzerland and will simplify border checks holidaystoswitzerland.com.

• Not be a visa; just a pre-travel authorization.

So for travel in 2025, no ETIAS or visa is required—just the items listed above. But when planning travel in 2026 or later, you’ll need to apply for ETIAS before departure.