If you are planning a short-term business trip to Switzerland, it is crucial to understand and comply with the relevant immigration regulations. The Schengen type C visa is the standard authorization for temporary stays in Switzerland and other Schengen countries for non-gainful activities.
Name of visa granted: Schengen type C
Permitted duration of stay: All business visitors, whether visa-exempt or visa-required, may stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen zone. A residence permit is not needed for these short visits.
Scope of permitted activities: Business related only: including meetings, seminars, and observational or training activities that do not involve productive work.
Who needs a business visa for Switzerland?
The requirement for a business visa depends on your nationality:
- Visa-exempt nationals may enter Switzerland without a visa for short-term business visits (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
- Visa-subject nationals must obtain a Schengen type C business visa prior to entering Switzerland for any business-related activities.
Important: Business visitors under this visa category may not engage in any form of employment or productive work while in Switzerland.
Permitted business activities include:
- Attending business meetings on behalf of a foreign employer
- Participating in contract negotiations or discussions of mandates
- Conducting or attending business presentations
- Joining seminars or engaging in fact-finding missions
- Performing limited supervision without direct output
- Accepting employment or receiving compensation within Switzerland
- Enrolling in educational or training programs that lead to a formal qualification
Note: These examples are indicative. Travelers should confirm whether their planned activity qualifies as “business” before travel.
Frequency of visits:
While there is no yearly set limit on how often one may travel, each stay must comply with the 90/180-day rule.
Accompanying family members:
Family members (e.g., spouses or children) may accompany the business traveler but must apply for separate Schengen visas, typically under tourist or visitor categories. Their stay is also subject to the same 90/180-day restriction.
To conclude, for business travelers planning short stays in Switzerland, the Schengen type C visa provides clearly defined access under structured conditions.
To understand the specific requirements for a business visa application, please contact us:
Email: info@legalexpat.ch
Or schedule an appointment online by clicking here.
We are here to help you understand the applicable rules and restrictions , ensuring compliance with Swiss and Schengen regulations and helping prevent issues during travel or at border control!
26/05/25 – Anne Konikoff, Immigration specialist
